Right now, Langstroth hives are the most popular hive style in North America, as well as in many other parts of the world. They became the industry standard due to their interchangeable parts and ease of transportation. These hives feature multiple rectangular boxes stacked vertically, with bees constructing their comb on individual frames that allow the beekeepers to remove and inspect each one.
Langstroth hives were invented by Lorenzo Langstroth and patented in 1852, but Langstroth was not the first to come up with the idea of keeping bees in boxes. Instead, he designed the frames to rest inside the box. His frames featured wider sides, that when racked together, create the perfect bee space. This ⅜” space allows bees to walk on the surface of neighboring combs back to back.
Langstroth hives are comprised of a roof, inner cover, multiple hive body boxes, frames, and a bottom board. These hives are standardized and can be come in many different configurations due to the three available box depths (deep, medium, and shallow) and two widths (8-frame and 10-frame).
The majority of beekeepers use either deep boxes for the brood nest and additional medium “supers” for honeycomb on top, or an all medium box configuration for both brood and honey. There are advantages to both styles of beekeeping, but remember that you will have to lift your boxes during inspections (and they can be heavy). Full, deep Langstroth boxes can easily weigh up to 90 pounds, and even the smaller medium & shallow boxes can weigh beween 40 - 60 pounds!
Since Langstroth hives are so widely used, there are many available resources to help new beekeepers get started. With a variety of books, video tutorials, and websites dedicated to Langstroth hives, you will never be lacking in learning materials. Additionally, your local beekeeping association will most likely be made up of a majority of Langstroth keepers. This should make it easy to find a mentor.
