The quality of this beehive is excellent. The windows fit perfectly, so no light can enter the hive. The roof material is much better than a wood roof as it doesn’t have to be painted. It is better than aluminum, which can be too shiny.

It seems like in life the pictures are always prettier than the actual product. The Standard Langstroth Hive that I bought from Bee Built was actually prettier in real life than the pictures. I fully expected to paint the hive but I may just stain it to show off the wood. Keep in mind that would be a natural product will have a lot a variation. For example, some parts might be darker than other parts. Of course, that is easily solved by painting the hive. You really must have someone help you put the hive together to keep the boxes straight. If you don’t, and you're not very handy putting woodwork together, the parts won’t align perfectly. The roof is excellent! Actually, the roof was the best surprise that I had. I find it very, very pretty … not to shiny or to bland, but just right. The color of the roof is very pretty, and should match any color that you choose. I would recommend getting an entrance reducer, which I bought. Of course an entrance reducer can be made easily by folding a peach of chicken screen wire or something similar. I looked at other hives but what sold me on this hive was the windows. If you're a backyard bee keeper I really recommend the windows so that you won’t have to open up the hive just look look at what the bees are doing. I’ve read that opening the hive is actually a traumatic experience so having a window is a must for those of us that want to see what the bees are doing. Love the product!

Haven't used it yet, it is winter here so won't use for another 4 months at least. Still putting it together but that is easy so far, product looks good.

This may be an economy model, but it has all of the quality details and thoughtful design of the rest of the Bee Built lineup! The solid construction will keep these boxes in use for years, unlike Langstroth boxes purchased from other retailers. The stylishly curved roof piece made with their leak proof composite paneling will let the rain run off, and keep the bees dry and protected. The viewing window is one of my favorite aspects of Bee Built hives and I am glad they included it in this model. This is the perfect hive to start or grow your apiary with!