DIY or AP cage for Tegu

My Argentine Black & White Tegu is going to need an enclosure upgrade soon, and my husband and I can't decide between building one ourselves or buying an AP cage. We've looked at some plans for building a melamine enclosure that's 8x3x3 and the AP cage is 8x3x2. The AP cage would obviously be a little more expensive, but might be worth it to not have the hassle of building it. Curious to know what other people have done or if anyone has tried a manufactured enclosure for their tegu.

Can’t speak in regards to tegu ownership, but I will say that melamine will weigh a LOT more than pvc and be a nightmare to move at that size if needed. Also if any moisture should find it’s way to the particle board under the melamine it will greatly compromise the integrity of the enclosure.
The AP cage will most likely cost more, but would be worth it in my opinion. They assemble super easy, are 100% moisture proof if sealed correctly, and I think they look nice. They’ve also got that ginormous 8x4x4 (T100) though it’s a few hundred more dollars than the T70.
Not sure if this is helpful, just a few of the considerations I keep in mind when researching enclosure options


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Melamine is a common choice for enclosure builds but to me is about the worst material you can use. The previous comment makes some great points. I personally enjoy the project of the build and have built 3 enclosures for various critters out of hardwood plywood. Definitely heavy and need help moving but I get exactly what I want and the pleasure of the build. On that note I do like the looks and ease of the PVC cages. I built 2 cages with everything, thermostat, heat, bedding, and sealing for about the cost of just 1 PVC cage without any supplies. I have to admit that played a big part in my choice.

I have one melamine Boamaster 4 foot cage. It weighs a ton! I will never own another and will get rid of it as soon as it’s replacement AP arrives. If no one will pay for it, I will give it away.

In fact I passed on an 8 foot BoaMaster melamine for $100. I ordered an AP 8 foot for over $700 with options instead.

Friends don’t let friends buy melamine. :)

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Originally Posted by Reinz

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Friends don’t let friends buy melamine. :)

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Lol.

I've been doing research on building enclosures/racks myself. I understand Home Depot can carry the 48"x 96" 1/2" PVC sheets, although may not be available at your particular store. I was told I could go in store and have them order it to the store if they don't normally carry it, but I have not tried to do this yet as I'm not quite ready to take the plunge. Would be worth looking into!

There are lots of different types of PVC sheets. I would do some research first to see what is best. At that size weakness will show.