adult/hatchling compatible shelves?

[stevepoppers]

I'm designing a rack and my main goal is being able to start with a row of hatchling tubs, and switching them out for juvie and adult tubs when the snakes get big and I sell some or get more storage. Like making his top shelf and bottom shelf interchangeable.

The thing that's tripping me up are which tubs to pick. I got an Iris MCB SS with my new baby, and I love how clear it is, but looking at the MCB series, the heights don't match up. Everyone seems to be using Sterilites that match height, but I'd like something clearer. If push comes to shove, I'll either build it for the adult tubs and use the lids on the smaller Irises, or just use the Sterilites. I want lidless because sliding them in and out looks so easy and simple.

Another question is Flexwatt layout. It seems that I would run a strip along the back for the hatchlings, then be forced to put just a wider piece on one end for the adults. Is having a small strip running the length of an adult tub ok? Is there a layout that will suit both tub arrangements?

And how well does melamine resist bowing? Do I need to reinforce it?

Thanks.

[OhhWatALoser]

http://www.sterilite.com/ProductCate...y=17&section=1

the only ones with matching hieghts are the 28 n 41 (1/8 inch difference), but youd still have to have a different rack for hatchlings.

chances are you won't be able to get a proper thermal gradient running it along the back side of the adult tubs. imo building a rack for each style of tub will be less headaches.

melamine resists bowing very well, personally I think poor design gives it a bad rep. I mean seriously its 3/4 inch thick lol

when people build their racks and have just have 2 sides and screw the shelves into the sides, all thats holding the wood up is those screws, for example this rack i got off craigslist. all thats holding up each shelf is those screws short spans it works i guess, but its really not ideal.



I prefer to build my racks in layers, each shelf sitting on top of the sides and back of the shelf below it. then you will never have to worry about bowing. The dividers I have in it arn't even really needed, but I had the extra wood, so why not. I could have 3 people sit ontop of all that and nothing would bow.