Starting with a rack set up?

[PitOnTheProwl]

My only concern is insulating it somehow since the sides and back will be exposed. Any suggestions?

On the "cheap" you can get a 4x8 sheet of blue board foam

I have a couple side questions to rack or non-rack system. I am getting ready to build my own rack and I see most people use "heat tape". I've gone to every local pet store and hardware stores in town and no one has them. Ive looked online and I've found ppl that sell it by the foot and comes in 3, 4, 11, and 12 inches wide.
http://www.reptilebasics.com/heat-tape

What width do most ppl use on their racks?
Depends on the size of the tubs in the rack

Do you run one stripe of heat tape throughout the entire rack, or start a new one for each row?
Depends on the design of the rack and your skill. I prefer to use a piece for each shelf incase one quits working I just have to remove the back of the rack and solder in a new piece.

This is the first time building a rack little alone I've never seen a home made on before. Are there any tips or tricks to make it more efficient and easy to build? Any idea are greatly appreciated! Thanks
Make sure you measure twice and then a third time to be sure before you cut.