Hot wax dipping is a hive preservation treatment that stops water penetrating the wood fibres which leads to rot.

The process is a bit like deep frying fish and chips, but instead of cooking oil or fat, I use a 50:50 mix of paraffin wax and microcrystalline wax.  This combination allows the paraffin to penetrate the wood fibres and leaves the wood dry to touch.

The wax is heated to between 150°C and 165°C.  At this temperature all pathegens including American Foul Brood spores are neutralised.

When the wooden hive components are submerged in the hot wax, the water contained in the wood fibres is boiled out.  It usually takes about ten minutes to complete, although some wood is particularly damp and can take longer.  Once the foaming stops, the water is gone.

When the hive ware is removed from the hot wax, the liquid wax quickly draws into the woodfibres permanently replacing the water and rapidly dries.  It takes several minutes for the wood to cool.

Painting is no longer necessary with hot wax dipping, though it is possible to paint for asthetic reasons.  The only time it is possible to apply paint or undercoat is immediately after the hive is removed from the wax.  The paint draws into the wood fibres with the hot wax.  If the paint is applied when the wax is cooled, the paint will not adhere.

This price is to hot wax dip one hive consisting of base, inner cover, lid and two boxes.  Painting is not offered, however you are welcome to bring your own paint and equipment to apply yourself.

Waxing is done by appointment.  You bring your hive ware and return with the hive.  Generally count on one hour onsite, slightly longer if you apply paint.

Bulk orders can be arranged at a discount rate.  Contact me with your requirements.