flex watt

building rack .not sure how many shoe box or sweater boxes yet but will be using flex watt for bottom heat.from all my research so far its the prefered method.my question is should the rubbermaids slide directly on the heat tape or should i counter sink it?any input would greatly appreciated.

I would counter sink it so you don't wear out the flexwatt from the friction of sliding the tubs in and out.

I agree with Becky ... the heat build up from directly compressing flexwatt could be dangerous.

-adam

How would you do that? -I still have a rack to build, needing ideas.

You can make a groove to recess flexwatt in a wooden rack with either a router or a table saw with a dado head set.

-adam

i just sanded the bottom of the tubs on one side to provide a easier fit

An easier method would be to lay two trim strips across the flexwatt and fasten them down on either side, front and back, NOT through the flexwatt! That gives space between the tub and heat, and the tub can slide easier on the 'rails'.

just some added advice on building the rack:

make sure you leave about 1/4 in. gap between the tub and whatever is above it. I had left about 1/8 in. and now my rack is settling and everything is getting a bit stiff. I think I might have to disassemble and rebuild.