Timber (softwood) hives have an R-Value of R1.4 per inch, whereas EPS beehives have an R-Value of R5.0 per inch. A typical timber hive wall thickness is 22mm, resulting in an R-Value of R1.21 when dry (which decreases when waterlogged).

In contrast, HiveIQ High Density EPS hives have a wall thickness of 40mm. As a result, the full hive has an R-Value of R7.9 which is not affected by moisture.

The EPS100 beehives by HiveIQ are environmentally friendly and beneficial to honeybees. They provide the honeybee colony with an environment that closely resembles a large hollow tree, offering a significant thermal mass that protects against outside elements and dampness. In contrast, wooden beehives with thin walls provide minimal thermal protection, requiring the honeybees to work harder to maintain a stable environment.

Moreover, during the production of EPS, neither chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) nor hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are used, eliminating the risk of off-gassing that may affect air quality in the beehive. EPS is also the lightest of all construction materials commonly used, reducing the environmental impacts and costs associated with the transportation of heavier wooden and plastic beehives, especially for commercial beekeepers who move their bees several times a year. EPS beehives also have a longer lifespan compared to traditional wooden hives, which are susceptible to dry rot and termite infestation. EPS is recyclable at various stages of its life cycle, including during production, as all manufacturing waste can be fully reprocessed by milling or granulating into pellets and adding to the production mix without compromising the quality of the finished EPS product.

EPS beehives contribute to sustainable beekeeping practices in several ways. Firstly, EPS beehives are durable and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional wooden beehives, reducing the need for frequent replacement and waste generation. Secondly, EPS is a recyclable material, allowing for potential recycling and repurposing at various stages of the hive's life cycle. Thirdly, EPS beehives offer excellent thermal insulation, reducing the energy required by honeybees to regulate the hive's internal temperature, resulting in healthier and more productive colonies. Lastly, EPS beehives are resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments, which aligns with sustainable and natural beekeeping practices

No, EPS is safe, non-toxic, and completely inert. It does not contain any Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) at any point in its life cycle. EPS also lacks any nutritional value, making it unsuitable for the growth of fungi or microorganisms such as mold.

Yes! While recycling depots typically do not accept polystyrene products due to their low density, high-density EPS beehives like ours have a high recycling commodity value and can be recycled. EPS is 100% recyclable.

Painting the EPS hive is necessary to protect it and the bees from UV radiation.

EPS beehives, such as our HiveIQ beehives, have a considerably longer lifespan compared to traditional wooden beehives. Wooden hives are susceptible to issues such as dry rot and white ant infestation, which can significantly reduce their lifespan.

In contrast, EPS beehives are made from high-density, food-grade expanded polystyrene, which is resistant to rot and pests. EPS is also recyclable at various stages of its life cycle, making it a durable and environmentally-friendly option for beehives.

Yes, EPS beehives can be used in a wide range of climates. EPS has excellent thermal insulation properties, which help to regulate the temperature and humidity inside the hive, creating a stable environment for honeybees. EPS beehives are used successfully in both hot and cold climates, as they provide insulation against extreme temperatures, allowing honeybees to thrive in various weather conditions. However, proper hive management practices, such as ventilation and shade, should be followed to ensure optimal hive conditions regardless of the climate.

Yes. More details can be found here.

Our shipping policy includes processing and shipping times, which vary based on the destination. We strive to ship orders within 1-3 business days, and delivery times depend on your location - more detailed information can be found during the checkout process.

Currently we only ship to Australia and the US. We do have plans to continue to expand our shipping locations globally. US customers can place an order using our US website.