help building a rack

i posted this in general bp but I'll see if get some more hits here.

so I'm going to build a rack system with either 32qts or both 32qts and 41qts, and i just have a few questions.

first, what type of wood should i use?

Second, what is better belly heat, or back heat.

Third, i would like to go with out lids but is this too much of a hassle?

and im sure there will be more q's but thats it for now. thanx

Quote:

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Originally Posted by camb

first, what type of wood should i use?

Second, what is better belly heat, or back heat.

Third, i would like to go with out lids but is this too much of a hassle?

and im sure there will be more q's but thats it for now. thanx

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1. i use melamine. it comes in 4x8 sheets and you can get it cut at the hardware store.

2. i use belly heat, some use back heat. I think belly heat is better especially if your room is a little on the cool side.

3. go without lids. this is not a hassle at all!! with lids you have to pull the tubs all the way out, put them on a work surface and then take the lid off. without lids you pull the tub out far enough to work in it and do your spot cleaning or feeding.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Somed00d

1. i use melamine. it comes in 4x8 sheets and you can get it cut at the hardware store.

2. i use belly heat, some use back heat. I think belly heat is better especially if your room is a little on the cool side.

3. go without lids. this is not a hassle at all!! with lids you have to pull the tubs all the way out, put them on a work surface and then take the lid off. without lids you pull the tub out far enough to work in it and do your spot cleaning or feeding.

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I argree with everything said here. Home Depot ( by me anyway ) also has melamine in alot of different sizes. Also check out the caging and DIY forums for more rack help and tips. When it come to heating I use 4 inch flex watt on my 32qt tubs and 11 inch on my 41qt tubs.