Using styrofoam on top of inner cover

[latebee]

OK---Those of you who use styrofoam on top of the inner cover and between the telescoping cover,what thickness do you use,and do you cut out the foam for the bee escape in the center? I have seen and heard meny different approaches to this and would like your opinion as well.

[Matz]

I use styrospan foam insulation built into all my covers.  Centered hole cut out for top feeding (save the cut out wood and use for plug) and a dato groove (top entrance) on the front bottom of the cover 2"x3"x3/8"depth with a swivle piece of metal to close up in summer months.  The styro insul is 1.5" thick and has an R7.5 value which sure helps for our long cold winters up here.  Wrap the sides with R7.5 and throw a R28 pillow on top for winter.  The styro covers are great for early spring feeding when the temps are still cool to unwrap, just take the pillows off and throw a feed container on.