Melamine or PVC snake rack

Ok we'll I'm new to the forums and wanted to ask about making the snake racks I have all my plans but need to wait like a month or so till I save up money to buy materials but I have a couple questions.
1) PVC or melamine (I have 3 suppliers here in San Diego gonna find out the cheapest place if I do go with PVC)
2)how do I make a recess in the PVC or melamine and is it necessary for the recess
3)I have some balls in mind that I want (hatchlings) is it ok if I start them off in v15 tubs with 2 hides and then move up to 32qt then 41qt for females cause I do not want to have to spend extra cash on a extra rack
thanks if you you guys can answer the questions and one more thing helix or herpstat 1

Welcome to the site!

1. PVC is lighter, and overall better than melamine. If you can get ahold of it I would go that route.

2. Are you talking about a recess for the heat tape? If so a recess isn't required.

3. You shouldn't have any issues with those tub sizes.

Helix thermostats use to be the industry leader, but nowadays they are outdated and in serious need of a redesign. The herpstat 1 is currently the industry leader and is the safest thermostat money can buy.

While a recess isn't required, it does make it easier to slide the tubs in and out on tight shelves. If you want to do it, you can use a router to recess the tape. Doesn't need to be deep, just enough to clear the tub.

And if it was me, I would go with PVC. It isn't going to be affected by humidity like melamine. Not sure on warping from either though.

Adding to that melamine (well the particle board it is glued to) can out gas phenols and formaldehyde, it also has a lower fire rating (you can buy formaldehyde and flame retardant panels but I think it is one or the other)

PVC is flame retardant, it does out gas too but it usually is during construction cutting and working at lower temps it is generally low. Given it tends to last longer and all the other advantages I don't see the value in using melamine.

You can make recesses in PVC or melamine with a router or if it is a very small rack a dremel style rotary tool, and an appropriately sized (just a little larger than you heat strips) cutter.
Just use a lower speed on PVC and a coarse cutter or it will melt rather than cut and smell horrible. Any small sharp knife will clean up the burrs quickly.

And what do you think about the tub sizes and sorry for late response was gone for the whole day

The tub sizes are fine.