I've never tried plastic foundations or frames so I can't speak about what
has been best for me in that arena.
    However, Hind sight is 20/20. If I had to do it over again, (I have 12
hives) I would use 3 mediums instead of 2 deeps for brood chambers. After 3
steroid injections in my back, I'm finally recovering from a back injury I
got from foolishly trying to lift a brood box by myself last fall.   If I had
the money I would also seriously consider purchasing polystyrene hives. I'm
still considering trying at least one to see how it compares, weight wise and
honey production wise.
    I've only been keeping bees for 6 years, I'm 42. Being female it's not
easy doing all that lifting without help. I'd like to be able to keep bees
until I'm ....well, dead. Any ideas on lifting hives by yourself would be
appreciated.
Denise Hubler
Luna Apiaries
Kentucky