I started with foundation the first year and last year I went foundation less. It's great you just need to make sure you are careful about how you add the frames and make sure you use starter strips of some kind. Some use Popsicle sticks in the top groove. I use a strip of permacomb about 1/2" wide. You also want to start out a super with 1 capped honeycomb or broodcomb in the center. Some of the dedicated beekeeping forums can give you more info.

I don't think going foundationless is the cure for mites. My reasoning? Wild (feral) bees would not be dying from mites if it were true. I know top bar hives still die out from mites and they use no foundation.

I do it because it's much less hassle.

How would I extract honey on my 5 hives going foundation less?....wouldn't that be a hassle??

Konrad

You say last year was your first year and you got lots of honey?
How much did you leave on in the fall for the bees to overwinter with? This could be your answer.