RCReptiles.com

[JDS3]

I decided to make my own Rack... I plan on using heat tape with a Helix Thermostat. Anyone else know a better way to heat a home made rack please let me know

[hhmoore]

There are a few different styles to consider, as well as building materials. For example - melamine is a common choice, and fairly easy to clean, but it doesn't hold up particularly well in humid conditions (such as might be expected with a lidless system). Increased humidity, combined with the higher temperature (when compared to the room), can cause condensation...which, over time, can degrade the finish and cause the particle board core to swell. This swelling will initially become evident in the form of tighter fitting tubs. Eventually, too moist conditions will cause the particle board to break down. Personally, with the possible exception of non tropical species, I lean toward using the lids with melamine.
(There has been a lot of press recently regarding melamine poisoning, and I'm not sure if it would be still be relevant to melamine board; but components of both melamine and particle board are considered toxic - so once they start breaking down, there could be a hazard).

If you want to look at a couple of different DIY rack options - with step by step instructions and a parts list - check out arbreptiles.com (with the "hanging tub" style rack, you could also substitute tileboard for the pegboard for a durable, easy to clean, moisture resistant surface - just remember that the tile board doesn't have holes, so you will need to either leave a small gap or ventilate the tubs.

[JDS3]

Thanks for that info and site. I looked at all of his designs and I plan on making mine similar to the Hatchling rack at the bottom. But I am going to house my adults on the bottom then sub adults then babies and just make my shelf height based on the three sets of tubs I get.

Thanks again I had never been to that website and it is helping me a ton.

[JDS3]

I found a new one that I like a lot.

http://www.animalplastics.com/

*under sterilite rack system the 1754 series the 7 shelves high. I like it because I can go to target and get the different size tubs I need based on the snakes I have. Has anyone here purchased from Animal Plastics before? If so do you like it and how was the service. With a helix themostat I think this will be a nice rack.