To ALL,

Much is being said about this subject, and rightfully so. Teaching new
beekeepers how to properly put together frames is an important task of the
first lessons in beekeeping. Most of the posts in this thread agree on the
first 4 nails through the top-bar into the end pieces and the second set of
4 nails into the end piece from the bottom bar. Most posts also agree that
eighteen(18)gauge 1 and 1/4 inch brads or staples may be substituted for 1
and 1/4 inch nails.

The additional two (2) nails, be it brads, nails or a single staple on each
side nailed parallel to the top bar and into the top bar from the end
piece, is of utmost importance to the longevity of the frame. Just as
important is the use of glue. IMO the type of glue to use is critical; use
a waterproof or water-resistant glue such as Tite Bond II. When frames are
cleaned and de-waxed by the Hot Waterbath method ordinary glue will no
longer hold. Through the years nails and staples will deteriorate due to
moisture and handling, here glue serves the purpose of keeping the
structure (the frame) unitized and rigid which helps to reduce bending and
weakening of the frame reserving strength over its lifetime.

Frames are critical to the hive, they go through much handling and abuse.
Frames provide the structural support for foundation, brood, and stores. If
they are assembled in a proper manner, they will last through many years of
service.


Chuck Norton
Reidsville, NC

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