Do PVC terrariums need silicone?

[Darkbird]

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't the AP cages screwed together and the sealant is just to keep it from leaking?

[Mr. Misha]

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't the AP cages screwed together and the sealant is just to keep it from leaking?

Yes, you're absolutely correct. This is my first AP cage and I'm definitely impressed. The T-12 cage is well constructed and doesn't really weigh anything.

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[jason_ladouceur]

OK,

Pro-Line cages are not PVC. They are HDPE and nothing sticks to the plastic. They use marine grade material that is used in ship repair. Maybe that makes a difference as to what you seal them with?

I've heard this a bunch of times. But I'm confused as to where this information comes from. AP's own website states that their cages and racks are made with cdpvc, not HDPE. Further more if they were made from HDPE they would weigh an absolute ton. I hade a 3/4" 4x8' sheet of HDPE in my shop a few months ago. It must have been close to 175 lbs.

[Kensa]

I've heard this a bunch of times. But I'm confused as to where this information comes from. AP's own website states that their cages and racks are made with cdpvc, not HDPE. Further more if they were made from HDPE they would weigh an absolute ton. I hade a 3/4" 4x8' sheet of HDPE in my shop a few months ago. It must have been close to 175 lbs.

Gio was referring to the Pro-Line cages when he said they were made with HDPE, not the AP cages.

[Jughead915]

I purchased an AP cage two weeks ago, and with the cage they included a product named Lexel, made by Sashco. It's clear and it says it's a superior alternative to silicone. When I looked online it was sold by Walmart. I figure if AP included it with the cage along with application instructions, it must meet the requirements.

[Gio]

I was in no way knocking AP. Although I have no experience with them personally I've seen there cages and they are top notch. Obviously a cage that is shipped knock down cannot be pre assembled with the proper solvents. My comment was strictly regarding manufacturers that sell pre assembled cages that are built using inferior products to assemble their cages. I personally can't stand having silicone on the inside of the cages joints. It makes cleaning the cage a pain and as it dries it shrinks and creates leaks.

Thanks Jason!

That makes sense now. It looks like Kensa cleared up the HDPE part. Thanks Kensa!! I was in fact speaking of Pro-Line Constrictors Northwest cages when I mentioned the HDPE. It is heavier but not unmanageable. You could drop it off a truck and it would be fine LOL!

I totally agree with Jason that if you are going to buy a Preassembled product it should be made the right way and not require the buyer to do anything but fill it with snakes.