Need Tank lid ideas

[Thor26]

Ok so i need to make a tank lid for my 75 gallon tank it has two 16x22 openings and i can't find anything premade. I need to make something that holds in humidity because i have two 150 watt bulbs on a thermostat. My humidity is always at least 50 but any ways i need ideas of what to make it with and how. i am a fairly decent carpenter and have access to a LOT of tools. So i need ideas thanks guys -Josh

[BMorrison]

Custom Melanine/Screen top?

[Thor26]

how do i get one of those

[Gloryhound]

how do i get one of those

Home depot and Lowes sells Laminated Melamine Shelves that are 16" deep and can be had in 4', 6', and 8' lengths for less than an Andrew Jackson. Cut it to the length you need and seal the edges. Cut holes in the top of the proper size for the light, suround the opening in Aluminum HVAC tape and then staple a screen down that is the right size and cover the staples with more of the above tape.

[Thor26]

is melamine like plexiglass

[kneepoles]

no, it's like a particle board covered in a slick veneer type surface. Similar to budget department store furniture.

[missi182]

Ok, so because I am quite proud of this lid, I posted some pics for ya! It was constructed using "L" shaped trim, 8 corner brackets to hold all of the pieces together, hinges, aluminum tape to cover everything and a simple roll of screen, oh and a million screws and staples.

http://s299.photobucket.com/albums/mm295/missi182/Lid/

[Thor26]

no, it's like a particle board covered in a slick veneer type surface. Similar to budget department store furniture.

Duh lol now that ithink of it i have some of it in my shed yaaaay

[Jenn]

Plexiglass works great. Most tanks have a one quarter inch recess in the top, so if you cut a piece of quarter inch plexiglass just the right size to fit into the recessed opening, then drill appropriate holes (I put twice as many holes in the warm end as the cooler end, and this creates an airflow from the cooler end to the warmer end (great for pre-scenting). Start with fewer holes than you need, then just keep adding holes until the temps and humidity are where you want them.

[dalvers63]

I'll get a picture tonight of my handmade plexiglass top for my 75G tank.

I had two pieces cut, one with a hole for the light I use. The other side is a solid piece with 1/4" holes drilled ever 2" or so for ventilation.

I have found that I like this much more than any screen top. If built properly, it is escape proof and will hold in humidity and heat.