Slatted Racks for Beehives
We beekeepers are always searching for ways to improve hive conditions for our honey bees. One piece of optional equipment that some beekeepers swear by is the slatted rack. This wooden component sits between the bottom board of the hive and the first box containing frames. Is a slatted rack something that you need for your bees? In this guide, you will learn what slatted racks are, why beekeepers use them and how to install them properly.
When you are considering needed beekeeping equipment and supplies, cost is always a consideration. But, storage space is an issue as well. Each component has to serve an important function to be worthwhile.
What Is a Slatted Rack?
A slatted rack is an optional beekeeping accessory that sits just under the first brood box of the hive. It is a wooden box with evenly spaced wooden slats that run parallel to the brood frames above.
Some slatted racks have a 4” solid wooden board at the front. This is to reduce wind turbulence as fresh air comes in the hive entrance.
Not all styles have this solid board. It is less expensive for the manufacturer to leave them off.
The dimensions of a slatted rack will match the dimensions of the Langstroth hive that it is being used on.
A 10-frame hive will need a 10-frame size slatted rack. This ensures that the outside of the hive is sealed correctly.
The slats inside the box are spaced to match the position of the frames above. This allows good airflow and bee movement through the hive.
Why Do Beekeepers Use Slatted Racks?
The main reason most beekeepers choose to use a slatted rack is to improve hive ventilation. For example, I live in the Southern United States. My hives sit in full sun and it gets hot out there.
The additional space between the bottom board of the hive and the frames provides extra clustering space within the hive. This means my apiary experiences less bee bearding on hot Summer evenings.
Pros and Cons
As with any style or type of beehive or any beekeeping component, there are pros and cons to slatted rack beekeeping. Keep in mind that your climate and beekeeping style plays a role as well.
Pros
Improved Hive Ventilation– Increased air flow helps regulate temperature and humidity inside the hive. A big bonus for me and beekeepers who live in hot climates.
Reduced Bearding – Along with better temperature regulation, fewer bees will be hanging out on the front of the hive in hot weather (bee bearding). This protects them from exposure to birds that eat bees and insect predators too.
Brood Location – Having the buffer space between the floor and comb may encourage the queen to lay eggs lower on the frame. This provides more square inches of brood nest on each frame.
Swarm Reduction – Some beekeepers feel that the use of slatted racks may reduce the swarming impulse due to lessened congestion.
I am a bit skeptical personally. You still need to manage honey bee swarms with other techniques.
Cons
Another Piece of Equipment – Using a slatted rack on each hive means another piece of equipment that you need to buy, install and store. Let’s face it – beekeeping costs can add up.
Increases Height of Hive – Although it is only an additional 1 ½ – 2”, a slatted rack does make your hive a bit taller.
Not a problem when using beehive stands that are lower to the ground. But, this may be a concern for the beekeeper of a smaller stature.
May Not Be Necessary – If you live in a region with cooler weather and have good hive ventilation, a slatted rack may be completely unnecessary. The possible cons of their use may outweigh any benefits.
How to Use a Slatted Rack in Your Hive
No piece of beekeeping equipment works well if you do not install it properly. Your slatted rack will go on top of the bottom board and under the first hive box.
- The slats should roughly align with the frames in the box above.
- Most units will have a stamp that says – this side up. If not, the shallow side is the side that goes up. This is necessary to maintain the proper bee space inside the hive.
- If your model has a solid 4” board on one end, it goes towards the hive entrance.
Best times to install
A slatted rack can be added to your hive anytime. A good opportunity is to put them in place before you install a package of bees, nuc or swarm.
For established hives, installation during a routine hive inspection is a good idea because it prevents you from having to disturb the colony twice.
In the south, I tend to leave mine on the hives all year. But, you may choose to install them in the Spring before hot weather and remove them in the Fall. Neither plan is wrong.
Where to Buy?
All bee supply stores sell slatted racks. Just be sure to order the proper size for your hive. Link at the bottom gives some information for those who may want to build their own.
FAQS
The side of the slatted rack with a shallower depth is placed upright on the hive. Some models will have “this side up” stamped on the box.
In most cases, bees will not build additional comb between the rack and the bottom board.
Whether placing a slatted rack on a beehive is worthwhile depends on your climate and a few other factors. For beekeeping living in hot regions, they can certainly be advantageous.
A Final Word
A slatted rack is easy to install and can provide multiple benefits, particularly in reducing bearding, improving ventilation, and encouraging more even brood distribution. However, it is an optional piece of equipment. I like using them on my hives but it is up to you to decide whether or not they are best for your situation.
Additional Resources:
- How to Make One – Plans
- Oregon Beekeepers