New DIY rack!

I can't really claim I did this rack myself, since I recruited handy friends to do it for me... but I was the fore-woman on the job, LOL. ;) Basically I copied the design of a pre-built rack I own (from Racks & Reptiles), but adjusted the shelf heights to accommodate lidless tubs - the other one requires lids, which is a real pain for cleaning/water. The thing I like best about the design, though, is how it's "convertible" for a variety of tub sizes. Each shelf can fit either 1 41qt Sterilite, 1 28qt & 1 15qt, or 3 15qts. You can also put 4-5 6qt shoebox tubs per shelf, but you'd have to leave the lid on those.

Here's a breakdown on what I paid...

Pre-cut melamine wood & screws from Home Depot: $80-ish
Flexwatt heat tape: $43 (6 x 3' strips of 3" tape) + $10 shipping
Flexwatt connection kits & service: $30
Thermostat: Free, since I'll be using the one from my incubator (originally $30 - ReptiTemp 500R)
Labor: A beer and a "thank you" hug. :)

Total cost = $163

Not too bad, considering I paid nearly $400 (including Flexwatt) for the one I copied... which came un-assembled without instructions, has one less shelf, and requires lidded tubs. I'm pretty happy with how this new one came out! There's a tiny bit more space between the tub & shelf than I wanted, but it should be fine - and I still have to add some plywood along the back. My friend's also going to come back with his "jig" (whatever that is), to make slits for the heat tape along the side. So, whaddya think?? I'm happy to share the dimensions & plans, if anyone wants to make one like it. :gj:

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p...3/P1020040.jpg

P.S. When my friend actually assembled this rack, it only took about an hour - maybe an hour & 20 minutes tops. Granted, he used to build furniture for a living, but that's still pretty impressive! He joked about going into the rack-making business, and I told him it might not be such a bad idea. :oops:

that looks very nice! he did a awesome job. if i had the money and a few more snakes i would definately buy one exactlly like that from him!!:)

Thanks, and I'll tell him you said that! :) If I go further in my breeding, I'm thinking he & I should partner up to start a business... I can't come up with a good name for us, though. LOL

If you could send me a PM with the instructions, This is an awesome rack!

Thanks!

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Originally Posted by Emohooker

If you could send me a PM with the instructions, This is an awesome rack!

Thanks!

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Will do! ;) Just gotta put it all on "paper," and then I'll send you the instructions - or maybe I should just post it here?

Btw, do you think I should flip it over, so that extra bit gives it some space off the floor? Or would that make it wobbly?

Could you please post all the info on here of how you did it, I am very interested or email me them at nmhuffor@gmail.com Thanks:)

Sure! Lemme just check with my friend on a few things (since I'm a dummy at this stuff), and I'll post the full instructions a bit later... glad you all are liking it! :)

This is exactly what I'm lookin for! I can't wait for the plans!

That is a very nicely built rack, well done :gj:

If the tubs don't tight fit you might consider less holes in the tubs since the humidity will already leak some, I have tubs I had to cover the holes because the fit was a little loose.
It looks very good and saving $$$ for more snakes is always nice :P

Love this design. I too would like a write up.
Is there risk of the shelves sagging? Is it super heavy?

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Originally Posted by SK_Exotics

Love this design. I too would like a write up.
Is there risk of the shelves sagging? Is it super heavy?

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Thanks, and sorry I still haven't put up the plans! Promise, I'll do that tonight or tomorrow. :gj:

Not sure about the sagging yet, but my other rack (same basic design & wood type) hasn't had that problem at all - and I've had it for a year. It's actually very light, and I was able to move it myself across the room... easy on my hardwood floors, but I think I could have moved it on carpet too.

I would like the plans too. So I'll be watching.

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Originally Posted by lusciousdragon

I would like the plans too. So I'll be watching.

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As do I. I'll keep watching as well :)

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Originally Posted by Lolo76

Btw, do you think I should flip it over, so that extra bit gives it some space off the floor? Or would that make it wobbly?

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No it won't make it wobbly.
I built my 5 slot 41qt rack with space below to accomadate lid storage

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u...ks/eggs012.jpg

Awesome rack, I think that is how I am going to do mine for my adults :) except the containers will be done the other way so I can fit more in :) Thanks for the post! :gj:

Not a fan of the placement of the heat tape (seems useless where it is, and very unmodular) but aside from that, nice work.
Might I suggest you put some type of backing on the rack, even if it's just a scrap piece of quarterround diagonally to give it some much-needed stability side to side.