building my 1st cage

[carmich132]

I've been working with wood for a long time, so I've decided to stop buying "fish tanks" and build my own enclosures. I've got a normal BP that is about 2.5 feet right now, and he's outgrowing his cage. I only want to build this little guy 1 more cage for the rest of his life, how big should I make it (he's currently 481 grams, but I know he'll get big). Also, as I'm planning on building the cage out of birch plywood, how would I heat the bottom? Would a UTH be able to penetrate 3/4" material? Any other heating suggestions would also be appreciated. As of now, I've drawn up a cage that is 48LX18DX16H. Do you think this would work for the rest of his life? Any thoughts from you more experienced builders would be greatly appreciated.

[tmlowe5704]

I've been working with wood for a long time, so I've decided to stop buying "fish tanks" and build my own enclosures. I've got a normal BP that is about 2.5 feet right now, and he's outgrowing his cage. I only want to build this little guy 1 more cage for the rest of his life, how big should I make it (he's currently 481 grams, but I know he'll get big). Also, as I'm planning on building the cage out of birch plywood, how would I heat the bottom? Would a UTH be able to penetrate 3/4" material? Any other heating suggestions would also be appreciated. As of now, I've drawn up a cage that is 48LX18DX16H. Do you think this would work for the rest of his life? Any thoughts from you more experienced builders would be greatly appreciated.

yes that would work. As for the heat, I guess it depends on how cold your room is. As for the plywood, make sure to seal it! After you are done, seal it again! many people here use melamine because it has that plastic coating and holds up to moisture a bit better. I would suggest the opening be in the front with either a sliding glass track or small doors so if you ever decide to build another you can stack them. Good luck and post pics along the way

[mxrider42]

i just built a cage out of birch plywood and pine. I plan on using flexwatt and a thermostat for heat. I plan on putting the flexwatt down on the floor and then putting a piece of vinyl flooring on top. The vinyl will also keep water and pee from getting to the wood. I also plan on putting two coats of water based polyureathane on the whole enclosure. one piece of advice is paint and coat before you assemble, it will be a lot easier.
Check here.
http://cagemakers.ophidiagems.com/in...fd92dc8c86e6c0
also
http://www.arbreptiles.com/cages/3x2.shtml

Trey

[carmich132]

thanks for the help! I'm postponing the building for a while, but I'll be sure to keep you updated on what road I take.