Do I need heating mat for belly heat

[Boomer60]

Hey everyone, first time posting...I am starting to build a 3/4" Melamine wooden enclosure (48"Lx24"Wx18"H) for my ball python. He has been in a plastic tub besides but I just want to put him in a much nicer enclosure. I have seen both sides of having a UTH and CHE, having just UTH and have just a CME, with the enclosure being 3/4" I know the UTH really won't do much. I have both a 60w and 100w CHE's which I will cut hole/holes in the top with either screen or glass to protect him from touching the bulb and also use cypress mulch for bedding. Just want some opinions, experiences and ideas with a wooden enclosure.
Thanks much
Boomer

[ryknoll3]

I would look into radiant heat panels for heat. Less humidity loss than CHE'S and can go in the enclosure.

Also, if you use a CHE, don't protect it with glass, use a screen. Glass would build up and trap too much heat. Could result in burns to the snake if it touches the glass or fire or premature failure of the bulb.

[Boomer60]

Thanks much for your input, I'll definitely look into the panels, and for the warning about the glass.

[Craiga 01453]

I would look into radiant heat panels for heat. Less humidity loss than CHE'S and can go in the enclosure.

Also, if you use a CHE, don't protect it with glass, use a screen. Glass would build up and trap too much heat. Could result in burns to the snake if it touches the glass or fire or premature failure of the bulb.

Great reply. I second all of it.