What kind of wood for rack?

[tideguyinva]

I am going to be starting to build myself a rack here soon and I have a few questions.

1. What type wood should I use?

2. Does it need to be enclosed on three sides?

3. If I build slides for the tubs to slide on how far from the flexwatt should it hang above it?

[Gloryhound]

I am going to be starting to build myself a rack here soon and I have a few questions.

1. What type wood should I use?

2. Does it need to be enclosed on three sides?

3. If I build slides for the tubs to slide on how far from the flexwatt should it hang above it?

1. I generally like to make my shelves using laminate 3/4" board. I have seen people use all types of wood, but I would say it would have to be sealed up pretty good with 3 layers or more of sealant.

2. Generally I like to have both sides solid, but I like to keep the back half open to allow access to the heating elements for maintenance later on.

3. I am really not a fan of the upper lip type slides as they seem to develop issues quickly for me. I like a solid bottom and top that the tub slides in and the flexwatt basically is right in between the tub and the floor. All the Iris tubs have rigdes and/or feet that lets them sit slightly off the flexwatt.