So with winter coming, the temperatures are dropping, and I want to get my ball python a CHE to keep the ambient up. However, I'm not sure what wattage to get nor am I sure how to set it up (I have an idea--I saw someone post some pictures on here in another thread which I can't find now--but I just want another confirmation (and some pictures if possible). His tub is a 16qt sterilite tub that looks like this. The best I can find (in regards to how much needs to be heated, how far away the bulb is, etc.) is a 60 watt (I only need to raise it about 10F or less)? My idea in mind is to cut a hole in the tub with a soldering iron, and then duct tape (from the outside only) a cut piece of mesh wire (like aquarium mesh) over the cut area, and then put the CHE on top of that.

Can anyone give me advice on whether this sounds accurate, unsafe, etc.? I've read a few places that say CHE get hot easily and can overheat your pet, but I would be using a thermostat so it won't overheat. Will I have problems with my snake trying to rub against the mesh (I assume he'll be curious, but I'm more concerned about him accidentally burning himself)? Do I need to hang the lamp instead of set it on top of the mesh (assuming it's in a dome cover)? There's not really any way I can do that, though, and I've seen a lot of people use lamps, CHE, etc. right against the top of a lid/cover/etc. Someone also mentioned that you need substrate if you use a CHE (I currently use paper towels). Is this true or...? I'm aware it sucks humidity, but I'm not too worried about it since I can just make a humid hide if it gets too low. But is there another reason that you need to use substrate with a CHE, or is this information incorrect?

Also, possibly dumb question, but does the CHE come with a dome cover (like here (not my image)) or is that bought separately?

Thanks for any help!