There
are many options of frames and foundations to choose from. Which is the
best, will depend on who you ask. The two most popular are the
crimp-wired foundation with wooden frames and the one-piece Pierco frames with foundation. The crimp-wired foundation
is wax foundation with wire that is embedded within it. This type of
foundation is inserted into a wedge/split wooden frame. This simply
means the top of the frame has a piece of wood that wedges the
foundation by pinching it against another piece of wood. The bottom of
the frame is two pieces, between which the foundation rests. If this type of
foundation is used for extracting it is recommended that it be
reinforced with bee wire crisscrossing the frame, or support pins along then end bars.
The
one-piece Pierco frames are plastic frames which have the honey comb
pattern embossed into it. Unwaxed frames are available, however, we only
stock waxed frames. We have found that bees will more readily work the
plastic frames which are waxed coated. These frames are very durable and
when necessary the frame can be scraped and cleaned. Some suppliers
sell plastic frames that are foreign made. Pierco frames are American
made with food approved plastic and coated with American wax. |
