Hello everyone. I have been doing a lot of research on how people build their racks and how the heating elements are incorporated into them but i still have a few questions.

First, with the Flexwatt heat tape, is it okay if the tub is sitting directly on the heating element or does it need to be elevated above it to prevent melting/ wear on the tubs? I know that the thermostat will keep the temps at 92, but i guess i was wondering if keeping it elevated or sitting directly on it makes any difference?

Second, is one type of tub better than another as far as holding up to long exposure to 90+ degree temps and also is one type easier to keep clean than another?

Third, with melamine shelving, is it okay to put the flexwatt directly on the shelves? From the pictures I have seen of the heat tape are always of the front where the heat radiates from, i was wondering if it has a special backing to keep it radiating upward and if not, do i need to put something underneath to do so?

Currently I have two BPs, one which is about 2 feet and one that is about 2 1/2 feet. I would like to build a rack to house the two of them, but would like to be able to upgrade the tub size for when they grow bigger. Also, I plan on purchacing a few babies in the spring and would like to house them in the same unit. I am just trying to figure out a design that will meet these accomidations. I am open to any and all suggestions that you will give me!

I plan on ordering the flexwatt and a new Helix DBS1000 from reptile basics to save myself the hastle of wiring everything but i just need to figure out my design and how many feet of flexwatt it will take. I really appreciate any feedback you all are willing to share with me. I'm a total novice at this rack thing and just want to get it right! Thank you!