Maya Ellison
Installing plastic foundations in frames is a straightforward process, but it requires careful preparation. Before beginning, ensure that the plastic foundation fits the frame. If the foundation is too wide, you may need to trim it. The foundation should be centred in the frame, with the notch at the bottom. Some beekeepers recommend adding an extra coating of wax to the plastic foundation to encourage bees to draw it out faster. When installing the plastic foundation, you can use a variety of methods, including stapling, nailing, or snapping the foundation into the frame. It is important to ensure that the foundation is secure and will not drop down. Additionally, be mindful of the storage conditions for the frames and foundation before use, as temperature and humidity can impact their suitability for the bees.
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What You'll Learn
Removing the wooden wedge
First, it's important to understand the purpose of the wedge. The wedge top bar is a common feature in frames, providing stability and support to the plastic foundation. However, removing this wooden wedge is necessary when using plastic foundations, as it creates space for the foundation to sit snugly within the frame.
To begin the removal process, carefully inspect the frame and identify the location of the wooden wedge. Typically, it is placed at the top bar of the frame, providing structural support. Using a utility knife or a similar tool, you can gently pry and loosen the wedge from its position. Some beekeepers simply grab and pull out the wedge, but a utility knife ensures a cleaner finish. Alternatively, if you have Brushy Mountain frames, the connecting strip of wood is often very thin and can be broken off with gentle pressure, so be cautious with your approach.
Once the wedge is loose, you can choose to either remove it entirely or reuse it. If you opt to reuse the wedge, you'll need to nail it back in place after inserting the plastic foundation. This provides additional support and ensures the foundation is securely anchored. However, nailing the wedge back in can be a fiddly task, so proceed with caution.
In some cases, you may not need to remove the wedge at all. Certain frame designs, like the groove top/bottom frames, can accommodate plastic foundations without requiring wedge removal. Assess your frame type and decide if wedge removal is truly necessary. Additionally, if you're using a flexible plastic foundation, you might be able to simply bend it to insert it into the frame without removing the wedge.
Finally, when dealing with multiple frames, consistency is key. It's advisable to use the same approach for all your frames to maintain uniformity within the hive. This promotes better bee management and ensures optimal results.
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Anchoring the wedge against the foundation
When anchoring the wedge against the foundation, you need to first remove the wooden wedge from the top bar. It is usually held in place with small nails or staples. Try not to break it, but if you do, you can still reuse the parts when installing your new foundation. If your frames are new, you won't have a wedge nailed in place, but you may see it loosely attached to the frame. Use a tool to break it loose and clean off any small bits of wood left on the frame.
Once the wedge is loose, you will still need to remove any remaining wax from the frame. Use a hive tool to scrape the old wax or comb from the wedge bar. When the wedge bar is clear, you can begin to attach the new foundation.
If you are using a wax foundation, you will need to attach the wedge bar to the underside of the top bar with a staple gun or small nails. Make sure that any wire hooks are laying firmly against the top bar and are wedged in between the two pieces of wood. Then, gently push the bottom of the sheet into the bottom bar. You can use a hive tool to push the wires into the bottom bar slot.
If you are using a plastic foundation, you may need to remove the wedge and nail it back in position to create a tighter fit. Alternatively, you can leave the wedge in the top bar and put a couple of brads through the split bottom to keep the plastic foundation from dropping down.
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Scraping off old wax
If you are installing plastic foundation in frames, you will need to scrape off the old wax from the plastic sheets and allow the bees to build new combs. This is a quicker process than sheet installation, but it is a nasty job.
To begin scraping off the old wax, you will need to remove the wooden "wedge" from the top bar. It is usually held in place with small nails or staples. Try not to break it, but if you do, don't panic. You can still reuse the parts of the wedge when installing your new beeswax foundation. If your frames are new, you won't have a wedge nailed in place. However, you may see it loosely attached to the frame. If so, use a tool to break it loose and clean off any small bits of wood left on the frame. When the wedge is loose, you will still have a little wax left to remove from the frame. But first, use a hive tool to scrape the old comb from the wedge bar. Sometimes it comes off in a big sheet, which is quite satisfying to see.
Once the wedge is removed, you will need to scrape off the remaining wax from the plastic sheets. This can be done with a hive tool or a sharp knife. Be careful not to scratch or damage the plastic sheets during this process. It is important to remove all the old wax to provide a clean surface for the bees to build new combs.
After scraping off the old wax, inspect the plastic sheets for any damage or imperfections. Over time, the plastic sheets can become scratched or deformed, affecting the bees' ability to build straight combs. If the sheets are heavily damaged, it is recommended to replace them with new ones. However, minor scratches or imperfections can be smoothed out using fine-grit sandpaper or a soft cloth.
Finally, prepare the plastic sheets for the new wax coating. This step is optional but recommended, as it enhances the bees' acceptance of the foundation. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the plastic sheets, removing any dust or debris. Ensure the sheets are completely dry before proceeding to the next step, which is waxing the foundation.
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Using a stapler to hold the foundation in place
Using a stapler to hold the plastic foundation in place is a common practice. While some beekeepers use small nails, others opt for a stapler or a staple gun as an easier alternative. This method is especially useful when working with wedge top frames.
To begin, remove the wooden wedge from the top bar. You can keep it aside as you may need it later. If your frames are new, they might not have a wedge nailed in place. However, if there is a loosely attached wedge, use a tool to break it loose and clean off any remaining wood pieces.
Now, place a sheet of plastic foundation (or beeswax foundation) upside down so that the bent hooks are cradled against the bottom of the top bar. The hooks should be positioned between the wedge and the top bar. Hold the foundation firmly in place and use your stapler to attach it. You can use 5/8", 1/4 crown staples in a pneumatic stapler, or any stapler that suits your preference.
Secure the foundation with three staples—one on each end and one in the middle. This ensures that the foundation is securely attached but can also be removed in the future if needed. With the foundation in place, it's time to fit it into the bottom bar. Use your hive tool to gently guide the wires into the bottom bar split or groove. Be patient during this step.
It is important to work with the foundation when it is warm. If it's cold, place the foundation in a warm room before installing it. Finally, ensure that the foundation hangs straight when you have finished the installation.
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Using a groove top frame
Installing plastic foundation in groove top frames is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to ensure a secure fit for the bees to build their comb. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Prepare the Frames
Firstly, inspect your frames to ensure they are in good condition and free of any debris or residue. Groove top frames are designed with a channel or groove along the top bar, meant to accommodate the plastic foundation. Check that this groove is clear of any obstructions. If you have purchased unassembled frames, ensure you have correctly put them together before proceeding.
Remove the Wedge (If Present)
Some beekeepers recommend removing the wedge from the top bar to create a smooth surface for the plastic foundation to rest on. This step may not be necessary if your frames were purchased with the wedge already removed, but it is important to confirm. Removing the wedge can be a delicate task, and you may need to use a tool like a nail or staple to pry it out without damaging the frame.
Insert the Plastic Foundation
With the groove top frame prepared, carefully insert the plastic foundation into the groove. Ensure that the foundation is centred and sits securely in the frame. You may need to gently tap or adjust the foundation to achieve a proper fit. The plastic foundation should be uniform in thickness and flat, providing an ideal surface for the bees.
Secure the Foundation
To ensure the plastic foundation remains in place, you can use a small amount of melted wax, carefully applied along the edges where the foundation meets the groove. This method, often called "gluing," adds stability and prevents the foundation from shifting or becoming dislodged. Allow the wax to cool and harden, creating a strong bond.
Final Checks
Once the wax has set, carefully inspect your work. Ensure that the plastic foundation is firmly attached to the groove top frame and that there are no gaps or spaces that could cause instability. Your frames are now ready to be placed in the hive for the bees to begin building their comb.
Using groove top frames with plastic foundation offers several benefits, including ease of installation and a uniform structure for the bees to work with. This method also reduces the need for wiring or other complex assembly techniques. Always remember to handle the frames with care to avoid disturbing the bees' delicate work.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic foundations are easier to manipulate and require less maintenance than wax foundations. They are also more durable and long-lasting.
If you are using a wedge top frame, you must remove the wedge and anchor it tightly against the plastic foundation. If you are using a grooved frame, simply pop the plastic foundation into the groove.
It is recommended to apply a coat of wax to your plastic foundation to help the bees draw it out faster.
