Frame spacers

Install frame spacers on the frame rests inside each hive body to maintain accurate bee space (approximately 9.5 mm) between frames and between frames and the hive walls. Consistent spacing reduces the propolis bridges bees build when gaps are irregular, which is the primary cause of frames sticking.

Why It Works

Bees fill gaps smaller than 6 mm with propolis and build comb in gaps larger than 10 mm. Frame spacers hold frames at the correct bee-space distance, leaving gaps that bees neither seal with propolis nor fill with burr comb. This keeps frames free-moving and easy to lift during inspections.

Tips

• Available in plastic or metal; metal spacers are more durable but plastic is gentler on frame lugs
• Castellated spacers fix frame positions permanently, which is useful for honey supers but limits flexibility in brood boxes
• Clean spacers of propolis buildup during annual hive maintenance
• Combine with proper hive tool technique for the easiest frame removal