Adding a basking shelf, like in AP cages?

Hey guys! I'm looking for some info on adding a basking shelf in a 36" long PVC enclosure, and wondering what exactly AP uses to make it. I'm not handy at all and have no clue what the materials are called or what is needed, but I can hopefully copy a reference. LOL

Like the one here, with the legs holding it up
https://apcages.com/collections/spec...-basking-shelf

Pixie (my tanimbar scrub) used to perch in that neat shape like a GTP on the pvc tube perches when she was smaller, but lately only prefers to sprawl out on a wider surface area like a carpet python, and never uses her perches to rest anymore. So I was looking to add something into her enclosure that gives her that option.

For something like that you would need the tools to cut and smooth PVC sheet, and to make consistent-sized pieces. The shelf is likely also glued and screwed into the enclosure for strength.

It might be easier for you to make a simple rectangular frame out of PVC tubing and connectors; many places will cut the tube to lengths you specify. Then you can attach a piece of plastic canvas on top using small zip ties.

The AP shelves and brackets are made from the same PVC as their enclosures. The brackets screw in to the back walls. IIRC the shelf just rests on the brackets, and the brackets have a little nose to keep the shelf from falling off the front. The shelves are long enough that they can’t fall off side-to side. The PVC is actually softer than some wood species, so all you need are woodworking tools.

If you’re not up to making a PVC shelf, bcr’s suggestion is probably the best. I’ve made a couple for our colubrids, but on a smaller scale than your scrub would need.


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Good idea! I didn't realize the brackets are custom cut too, I thought I could buy it at a hardware store or something LOL.

Thanks for the info!

The AP cages are cut braces of PVC bolted to the back of the cage wall with 2 screws each. They have a little lip on the front which the shelf just sits so it basically wedges the shelf between the lip of each brace and the back wall. Also the back wall of the cage has channels routed into where the braces fit so the weight isnt put on the screws, its actually put on the spot where the bottom of the brace sits in the routed channel. Here are some pics that might help.
https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...4125a1a3_h.jpg
https://ball-pythons.net/forums/cach...db5b721d_h.jpg

They arent glued or anything so you can just lift and slide them out of the cage when cleaning.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Sauzo

The AP cages are cut braces of PVC bolted to the back of the cage wall with 2 screws each. They have a little lip on the front which the shelf just sits so it basically wedges the shelf between the lip of each brace and the back wall. Also the back wall of the cage has channels routed into where the braces fit so the weight isnt put on the screws, its actually put on the spot where the bottom of the brace sits in the routed channel. Here are some pics that might help.

They arent glued or anything so you can just lift and slide them out of the cage when cleaning.

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Ah this is very helpful! Thanks sauzo!