Product Overview
Why Lappe’s Bee Supply
Commercial Beekeeping since 1978 • Family Owned/Operated • Full Service Beekeeping Supplier since 2015
At a Glance
A 9-1/8" unassembled grooved top bar frame is a wooden deep hive frame designed to support foundation and comb construction inside a deep hive body.
These frames ship unassembled, giving beekeepers complete control over assembly while using a grooved top bar designed to accept foundation.
Quick Answer
These 9-1/8" deep frames are designed for use in deep hive bodies, where colonies raise brood and store food reserves. The grooved top bar is designed to hold foundation, while the unassembled format allows beekeepers to build frames as needed.
Best choice if: You prefer assembling your own woodenware or are preparing multiple hive bodies before the season.
Quick Specs
- Size: 9-1/8" Deep Frame
- Configuration: Unassembled
- Material: Wood
- Finish: Unfinished
- Key Feature: Grooved Top Bar
- Compatibility: Deep Hive Bodies Using 9-1/8" Frames
- Nails Included: No
Is This Right for You?
- ✔ Building new brood chambers
- ✔ Replacing damaged deep frames
- ✔ Beekeepers who prefer self-assembly
- ✖ Those wanting ready-to-install assembled frames
Bottom line: Choose these frames if you want standard deep brood frames that you can assemble yourself and customize during hive setup.
Why Beekeepers Use This Product
Deep hive frames provide the removable structure bees use to build comb. Beekeepers rely on removable frames to inspect colonies, monitor brood production, and manage hive health without damaging comb.
When to use: During new hive assembly, equipment expansion, or replacement of worn brood frames.
How It Works
After assembly, the frame is installed inside a deep hive body. The grooved top bar holds foundation, allowing bees to draw comb that can be removed and inspected throughout the life of the colony.
- Supports brood rearing and food storage
- Accepts compatible foundation in the grooved top bar
- Allows removable frame hive management
Apiary Management Notes
- Assemble frames squarely to encourage straight comb construction.
- Check joints periodically during heavy hive use.
- Replace damaged frames before they become difficult to inspect.
Seasonal Use
- Spring: Commonly installed in new colonies and expanding brood chambers.
- Summer: Supports brood production and colony growth.
- Fall: Remains part of the brood nest heading into winter.
What’s Included
- 9-1/8" unassembled wooden frame components
- Grooved top bar design
Note: Nails are not included.
Comparison
Compared to assembled frames, unassembled frames require additional labor but allow beekeepers to inspect components during assembly and often simplify storage before use.
| Feature | 9-1/8" Unassembled Grooved Top Bar Frames | Assembled Deep Frames | Wedge Top Deep Frames |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assembly Required | Yes | No | Usually Yes |
| Top Bar Style | Grooved | Varies | Wedge |
| Foundation Installation | Designed for grooved foundation installation | Depends on frame style | Foundation secured with removable wedge |
| Best For | Beekeepers assembling their own equipment | Beekeepers wanting ready-to-use frames | Beekeepers preferring wedge-style foundation attachment |
| Main Advantage | Assembly control and efficient storage before use | No assembly time required | Traditional wedge-top foundation installation |
| Hive Compatibility | Deep hive bodies using 9-1/8" frames | Deep hive bodies using 9-1/8" frames | Deep hive bodies using 9-1/8" frames |
Who This Is For
- Beekeepers assembling their own woodenware
- Apiaries preparing multiple deep hive bodies
- Beekeepers replacing brood chamber frames
- Anyone seeking standard deep frame compatibility
Common Mistakes
- Installing frames that are not assembled squarely.
- Failing to secure joints during assembly.
- Using frames that do not match hive body dimensions.
FAQ
Are these frames assembled?
No. These frames are shipped unassembled and require assembly before use.
Are nails included?
No. Nails are not included with this product.
What size hive body do these fit?
These frames are designed for deep hive bodies that use 9-1/8" deep frames.
What is the purpose of the grooved top bar?
The groove is designed to hold compatible foundation within the frame assembly.
About Lappe’s Bee Supply
Lappe’s Bee Supply provides beekeeper-tested equipment designed for real-world apiary use. Our goal is to supply practical woodenware and beekeeping equipment that helps beekeepers manage productive colonies.
Share Your Experience
How easy was assembly, and how did these frames perform in your hive? Your review helps other beekeepers choose equipment that fits their management style.
