How to Install a Beehive Frame Foundation

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

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The wax foundation is a starting point for the bees to begin making comb. The foundation will help keep the bees building in a specific area and on the frame, giving the beekeeper easier access to the honey.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
Remove the top bar wedge.
Step2
Place a #18 half-inch nail in one end of frame on the top, about halfway down the middle.
Step3
Tie off one end of the wire to the nail.
Step4
Thread a #28 hard-drawn, tinned, carbon-steel wire in one eyelet and out the other eyelet across the frame until you have two strands of wire across the middle of the frame.
Step5
Tie off the remaining wire to the nail placed in step 2.
Step6
Hammer the nail flush with frame.
Step7
Weave wax foundation over and under the wires from step 3.
Step8
Slide the bottom of the foundation into the slotted groove at the bottom of the frame until the top of the foundation slides into the top bar groove.
Step9
Nail the top bar wedge from step 1 back into place using #18 nails.
Step10
Secure the bottom of the frame with #18 nails. Place nails about two-thirds of the way from each end of frame.

Tips & Warnings

  • Clean frames before placing the foundation.
  • If you are putting a new frame together, use wood glue and nails for a sturdy frame.
  • Check older frames for weakness. Reglue and nail weak spots.
  • In cold weather, handle the foundation with care - it will be brittle.

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eHow Article: How to Install a Beehive Frame Foundation

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