Keep in mind that applications, reason, purpose of using pliable (flexible) inner covers vary according to region and purpose. My objectives were to keep out heat transmission thru top cover, to fill hiding spaces on top bars where hive beetles are found escaping the bees, to correct any warp in aging top covers, to not disturb bees any more than I need to.
Advantages of using Reflectix (foamies, bubblewrap, duck canvas, etc.)
Seals top cover around edges, prevents robbing at warped covers
Bees cannot propolis or burr comb the cover to tops of frames
Can roll partially open and less disturbance to bees than exposing all the frames
In addition to edge sealing, the flexible cover expands to eliminate the hive beetle hiding space
Beside cold northern applications, the radiate reflective nature keeps down heat transmission into hive from hot Florida sun
On a rare cold Florida day, can open lid without causing a chill by releasing the warmth of the hive cluster
Don't measure or use a tape measure... no need for markers... no scissors. I simply use a wooden inner cover or queen excluder as a cutting template. Lay the cutting template on the flexible material and use a razorblade (box cutter, carpet cutter, etc.) to trim to same size as the template.
Advantages of using Reflectix (foamies, bubblewrap, duck canvas, etc.)
Seals top cover around edges, prevents robbing at warped covers
Bees cannot propolis or burr comb the cover to tops of frames
Can roll partially open and less disturbance to bees than exposing all the frames
In addition to edge sealing, the flexible cover expands to eliminate the hive beetle hiding space
Beside cold northern applications, the radiate reflective nature keeps down heat transmission into hive from hot Florida sun
On a rare cold Florida day, can open lid without causing a chill by releasing the warmth of the hive cluster
Don't measure or use a tape measure... no need for markers... no scissors. I simply use a wooden inner cover or queen excluder as a cutting template. Lay the cutting template on the flexible material and use a razorblade (box cutter, carpet cutter, etc.) to trim to same size as the template.
