Built-In Snake Rack and heating suggestions needed

[chosen2030]

Hi All, so I have a space in one of my rooms that I think could structurally serve as the frame for a snake rack for my ball pythons:
https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/phot...eat=directlink.

The dimensions of the space (in inches), after 1/2" clearance from the sides and top are: 19W x 25D x 31H. Here are my questions, I would like to use this for my BPs for as long as possible (as close to adult/breeding size as possible), so:
1) How many tubs would I be able to fit in this space? (I'm thinking 4)
2) What tub size (dimensions, qt size and manufacturer) would you recommend for the slots?
3) What size (and manufacturer) of heat tape would you recommend?
4) What thermostat would you recommend? I really don't know how thermostats work when it comes to how many probes and how many strips of heat tape you can connect to it, so the more detail, the better

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Annarose15]

Personally, I'd build/buy an open-sided rack that fits into the space, not build the shelves directly in. That would allow for better air flow around the heating elements, and easier access if you need to get behind anything for some reason.

[chosen2030]

Personally, I'd build/buy an open-sided rack that fits into the space, not build the shelves directly in. That would allow for better air flow around the heating elements, and easier access if you need to get behind anything for some reason.

Thank you. I totally get the easier access suggestion, but aren't there a lot of commercial racks with enclosed sides? This is just the first I've heard about concern with airflow around the heating elements.

[Annarose15]

Thank you. I totally get the easier access suggestion, but aren't there a lot of commercial racks with enclosed sides? This is just the first I've heard about concern with airflow around the heating elements.

Yes, there are, but those are enclosed with PVC, not drywall and paint or other standard wall materials. Flammability and moisture concerns would be at the top of my list. I don't know enough to say if it should be a concern or not, just that I would want to be able to arrange my rack/shelves/etc. so they aren't touching the walls of my house.

[chosen2030]

Yes, there are, but those are enclosed with PVC, not drywall and paint or other standard wall materials. Flammability and moisture concerns would be at the top of my list. I don't know enough to say if it should be a concern or not, just that I would want to be able to arrange my rack/shelves/etc. so they aren't touching the walls of my house.

That makes sense. So does malamine prevent flammability?

[kitedemon]

I am not sure but I believe melamine and the substrate come in regular, no formeldahyde/phenol, or flame retardant. I an unsure if there is a no out gassing flame retardant version. Melamine doesn't easily burn but the particle board it is glued to does.

PVC/PVCx (both regular and expanded) are both flame retardant. It is often used with reptile enclosures / racks, clearly safety is a big reason why it is so common.