Hive bodies mad e from press board???

[Boom Buzz]

I have an opportunity to buy some cost effective (AKA relatively cheap) hive equipment, but I believe it is made out of press board material, not solid wood.  This does not sound good to me from a possible chemical (out gassing) stand point.  Does anyone have any experience or knowledge about using press board for hive material?

Any thoughts/opinions welcome...

John

[fermentedhiker]

Whether or not I'd worry about off-gassing would depend on how old they are.  I'd find out more specifically what they are made from.  There is a big difference between things like advantec, OSB(chipboard),and Particle board which is what I usually think of when someone says press board(either that or MDF).  Neither MDF or Particle board can take any amount of moisture and even OSB breaks down pretty quickly.  Advantec or something equivalent would be the only one I would think would last and that stuff ain't cheap.  It's also VERY heavy.  So I guess it comes down to your situation.  Are they all you can afford, if so maybe they'll be ok long enough for you to build or pick up some better used equipment.  Otherwise I wouldn't bother with them.
FH

[dpence]

I use OSB in some of my woodenware, but none that is directly exposed to the elements.  As mentioned the lifetime of these products is limited.  IMHO.

David

[asprince]

I use scrap Advantec for hive parts all the time. I haven't made a hive body yet but it makes good bottom boards and hive tops. It is heavy but it is good stuff and I make good use of all scrap. It will last a long time with a good coat of paint. MDF and particle board will not take any moisture.

Steve

[Michael Bush]

I've used it.  It doesn't age well, but if it's free, I consider it a good deal.  :)