Built-In Insulation
Hex Hives print their own insulation by creating air pockets within the hive walls. Independent testing on PETG shows that a Cubic infill pattern at 25% density achieves a thermal conductivity of 0.083 W/m·K—making it twice as effective an insulator as wood (0.12–0.16 W/m·K). This built-in insulation keeps colonies more stable year-round! Our Quickstart PDF includes recommended setups, and standard cold-weather techniques for wooden hives can still be applied for added protection.
In addition to materials, the hexagonal design of Hex Hives is inherently more thermally efficient than the rectangular Langstroth, with less surface area exposed per unit of volume. This geometry helps bees maintain their ideal cluster temperature with less effort, reducing stress and energy use while supporting stronger colonies.
Minimum Printer Size Required
Hex Hives are designed to scale down to a 210mm³ build space while still keeping proper bee space. That means you can print your hive on most 3D printers available today.
Recommended Printers
See It in Action
Watch Brian from Castle Hives compare the Hex Hive to a wooden Langstroth. The 3D printed design built comb faster, used every frame, and produced more honey and brood with less work.
See how a 3D printed Hex Hive stacks up against a wooden Langstroth and choose your winner.
Smarter Hive Structure
Bees build where it’s warmest. Rectangular Langstroths leave colder corner zones at the edges, while our insulated hexagonal body reduces heat loss and drafts—so colonies are far more likely to draw and use every frame.
Better Insulation Than Wood
Hex Hives Mega walls are 3D printed with a cubic infill pattern at 25% density, creating natural air pockets that lock in heat. This design insulates better than traditional wooden hives, keeping your bees healthier through changing seasons.
