This guide explains how to assemble National Brood and Super Boxes using the traditional method commonly used by beekeepers. We recommend reviewing the full instructions first, as this will give you a clear understanding of the parts and the sequence in which they should be fitted.
How to Assemble National Brood and Super Boxes – Construction Overview
When learning how to assemble National Brood and Super Boxes, it is important to understand that both box types share the same construction design and joint system. For this reason, the same assembly instructions apply to both brood boxes and supers. The process described below explains how to assemble National Brood and Super Boxes using the same joint profiles and assembly sequence for both box types; the only difference between brood boxes and supers is the height.
What’s Included in Your Brood or Super Set
Each box (brood or super) includes:
— 2 × side walls
— 2 × front and rear walls
— 2 × upper rails (top rails)
— 2 × lower rails (bottom rails)
You will need approximately 20–28 nails or screws for assembling one box. These items (nails, glue, screws) are not included.
Preparing for Assembly
Place all parts for the brood or super box on a flat, clear surface before starting the assembly. This includes the side walls, front and rear walls, and the upper (top) and lower (bottom) rails. Arrange the pieces so you can clearly see their orientation — this makes the following steps much easier and helps prevent incorrect fitting.
To Glue or Not to Glue?
For a stronger and longer-lasting box, it is recommended to apply wood glue to all joint areas. Spread a thin, even layer of glue inside the grooves on the side walls for the front and rear panels, and on the joint channels where the tenon ends of the upper (top) and lower (bottom) rails slot in. If you choose to assemble the box without glue, simply move on to the next step.
Fitting the Top and Bottom Rails
Lay one side wall flat on your work surface — this makes it easier to keep the rails aligned as you insert them into their channels.
Insert the lower (bottom) rails into the lower joint channels of the side wall, ensuring the bevelled edge faces downwards and outwards.
This orientation allows rainwater to run away from the box rather than towards it.
Insert the upper (top) rails into the upper joint channels of the same side wall, with the recess (rebate) facing inwards and upwards.
After both rails (two bottom rails and two top rails) are fitted, place the second side wall over the assembly and lower it carefully so that the tenon ends of the top and bottom rails slide into the corresponding joint channels in the same way as on the first side wall.
Installing the Front and Rear Walls
With both side walls and rails already joined together, you can now fit the front and rear walls. Slide the panels into the vertical grooves of the side walls and guide them down until they sit fully in place.
Make sure the chamfered (bevelled) edge is positioned at the top, sloping downwards and outwards — this angled surface functions as the frame runner.
If you plan to use metal runners instead of the wooden bevel, place them over the bevelled edges and fix them in place before installing the front and rear panels.
Ensuring a Square Fit and Securing the Assembly
Once all four walls and all four rails are fully fitted into their joint channels, check that the box is square. Measure the diagonal distances from corner to corner — both measurements must be equal. If they differ, adjust the box gently until the diagonals match.
Secure the structure by fixing the walls to each other and securing the rails to the walls with nails or screws, keeping the box properly aligned as you work.
The fixing points shown in the diagram indicate the minimum recommended positions, and you can add extra fixings anywhere the joints require additional tightening.
If you are using nails, position them closer to the centre of each joint and drive them in at a slight outward angle to reduce the risk of splitting the timber.
Exterior Wood Treatment for Brood and Super Boxes
It is recommended to treat only the exterior surfaces of the assembled brood or super boxes with a bee-safe wood oil or a suitable non-toxic hive paint. This protects the timber from weathering and helps prevent moisture absorption. Do not treat or paint the inside of the box. Bees require natural, untreated wood inside the hive for proper moisture regulation and propolising.
This guide describes how to assemble National brood and super boxes, based on our experience and widely used beekeeping practice. All steps should be carried out with suitable tools and under safe working conditions. Actual results may vary depending on tools, materials, individual technique, and user experience.