Hopefully, you can get what I'm trying to convey.
ASCII graphics don't work so well in the forums, but I still got ya.
I'm debating about drilling some holes half way up or so for upper enterences and gluing on a peice of wood for a landing surface, maybe a 1x4.
I've made two TBH so far, one with an upper entrance and one with a bottom entrance. I have had them about 8 months now and have seen very little difference. Seems like the one with the upper entrance occasionally has a few bees fanning by the entrance, but I just wonder if that is because it is conveniently close to the comb. Both winter extremely well. The only difficulty I had with the upper entrance is that I couldn't use the electric oxalic vaporizer, so I didn't treat it at all. One of the thoughts of a TH is that they can regulate the inside temp easier since it is pretty much sealed off, if you add a 2nd entrance, then there will be some natural drafting thru the hive that they will have to deal with. But then again, if your putting a screened bottom than I guess that wouldn't matter.
To me, this seems like it would work but, I would like some imput on the subject.
That is the great thing about TBH, there is no one right size. I made mine a little wider and deeper so that I could hang Langstroth frames from the top bars to aid in moving nucs into it. This should work fine for you.
Also, I've read that it would be a bad idea to do any large inspection of the hive with high temperatures.
Yes, especially when the comb is new. Always start from the empty bar end and open a space up to work thru. When you get to the bars with comb, make sure they aren't attached to the side walls (if so, cut loose with a serrated knive). Always keep the frames in the natural position (hanging) don't try fliping them up or on the side to inspect. When you start to move them, you can tell if they are soft and flex, if so, don't continue. Actually, you shorter height of the hive will help you as the combs won't be as long and thus less weight.
Waiting to see some pictures.......