deep rack or wide rack?

Hello all, I am new to this forum but I have been browsing many of the threads about self made ball python racks for breeding programs. I have reached a point of uncertainty though. I can't decide whether a rack that is deeper or wider is the best decision. This is my first attempt at a rack system. My main concern about the two options is their ability to hold the necessary temperature gradients. Can anyone help me out?

For ball pythons, floor space is more important than height...

I think a deeper rack is better. Having only one short side exposed provides better security. You can also put more racks side by side in the future.

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Originally Posted by manicmorphs

I think a deeper rack is better. Having only one short side exposed provides better security. You can also put more racks side by side in the future.

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I think I misunderstood the OP's question...agree with your comments here.

Ball Pythons need a wide rack. Temps work better with them too.

In a deeper rack the back which is the hot side is insulated on 3 sides. The cool side on two. That is better for temperature control in my opinion.

I think the OP is talking about horizontal depth not vertical. It is better to be deep in the sense that if the rack is 40x20, the 20 is the width and the 40 is the depth. The less exposure to light to more secure the snakes feel.

But if the OP means vertical depth, that really doesn't matter too much. The above is what is important.

Always go deep!

A deeper rack is better for bp's so they have a more secure back in a hole feeling.

Heating shouldn't be an issue whether it's wider or deeper if it's done properly.

I agree that depth is more important than width. At least in this instance. Ball Pythons are shy creatures and this gives them more room to hide