Best Beehives for Small Rooftops (2024)
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For urban beekeepers with small rooftop apiaries in developed countries (US, UK, etc.), choosing the right hive involves balancing appearance, practicality, and cost. This guide compares the Flow Hive 2, Hoover Hives (wax-dipped), and NuBee 8-Frame.
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| Features | Best Overall Flow Hive 2 | Hoover Hives | NuBee 8-Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Premium | Classic | Basic |
| Harvest | Tap | Frame | Frame |
| Price | $$$ | $$ | $ |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
1. Flow Hive 2 (Cedar 6-Frame)
Flow Hive 2+
★ 4.8- ✓ No heavy lifting for harvest
- ✓ Observation windows
- ✓ Built-in level bubble
- Aesthetics: Premium design with gabled roof and viewing windows. Ideal for visible rooftops.
- Weight: Heavier due to mechanism, but requires less lifting during harvest.
- Ease of Harvest: Insert key, turn, and drain. No centrifuge needed.
Verdict: The “luxury hybrid car” of hives. innovative, sleek, and convenient.
2. Hoover Hives 8-Frame Langstroth
Hoover Hives 8-Frame Kit
★ 4.7- ✓ Wax-dipped for weatherproofing
- ✓ Lighter 8-frame boxes
- ✓ Includes frames
- Aesthetics: Classic Langstroth with golden beeswax finish.
- Weight: 8-frame boxes are ~20% lighter than standard 10-frame, making them safer for rooftop handling.
- Ease of Harvest: Traditional lift-and-spin.
Verdict: The “reliable pickup truck”. Strong, beautiful, and ready to work.
3. NuBee 8-Frame Kit
Hoover Hives 8-Frame Kit
★ 4.5- ✓ Budget friendly
- ✓ Lightweight fir/pine
- ✓ Requires painting
- Aesthetics: Basic unpainted wood. Can be painted to blend in.
- Weight: Designed to be lightweight.
- Ease of Harvest: Standard traditional harvest.
Verdict: Best for budget-conscious beginners who want to learn the traditional way.
Comparison Summary
| Criteria | Flow Hive 2 | Hoover Hives | NuBee 8-Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Premium, modern cedar/pine | Classic Langstroth, wax-coated wood | Plain pine, user-painted |
| Weight | Medium-heavy; less lifting needed | Moderate; easier than 10-frame | Lightweight and beginner-friendly |
| Ease of Harvest | Outstanding; no disassembly | Labor-intensive; requires gear | Traditional, requires extra effort |
| Price (USD) | $779–$929 | ~$149 (sale) | ~$139 |
| Best For | Urban hobbyists with budget | Value-conscious, mid-range keepers | Beginners, experimenters |
Bottom line: If you have the budget and want the easiest urban experience, get the Flow Hive. If you want a solid, beautiful traditional hive that won’t break your back, get the Hoover 8-frame.