PVC build advice

[Eavlynn]

I'm looking to build my first DIY PVC enclosure (multiple if this works well) for my pythons. Home Depot has white PVC sheets that I plan on using. I would also like to seal all creases with some sort of caulking to keep all humidity in (since I read that small leaks could cause discoloration over time), but I'm not sure if any of these will be toxic to my scaled babies. If anyone has advice to throw my way, I'm all ears!

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[John1982]

I'm looking to build my first DIY PVC enclosure (multiple if this works well) for my pythons. Home Depot has white PVC sheets that I plan on using. I would also like to seal all creases with some sort of caulking to keep all humidity in (since I read that small leaks could cause discoloration over time), but I'm not sure if any of these will be toxic to my scaled babies. If anyone has advice to throw my way, I'm all ears!

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I'd use a silicone based sealant - such as the stuff used on fish tanks.

[LittleTreeGuy]

^^ agree. Silicone based is the way to go.

[spikell75]

Pvc is latex based.. will bond pvc better than silicone. Plus is cheaper and easier to clean up. This is coming from 20+ years painting. I would recommend silicone on most other materials wood,glass,rock.

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[Eavlynn]

Thanks all, I'll look a little deeper into both. If all goes well, I should have a photo of the finished product to post up! Fingers crossed!

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[AKA Dave]

After building quite a few of these, I wouldn't worry about sealing it. I've had no problems. Small leaks are non existent IMO if you have vents cut into the unit. I wouldn't guarantee it would hold water without it, but I've never had one leak from an upturned water bowl either.

Dave

[Eavlynn]

I do plan on venting the enclosure similar to the vents on the AP enclosures. And my proheat panel should be arriving tomorrow as well. Part of me still wants to buy sealant just in case my cuts aren't absolutely perfect, but I'm not sure whether or not I'll have to use it. Fingers crossed for a positive outcome! If this goes well, all of my humidity loving kiddos will have them!

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[spikell75]

You'll love it in no time !!! So much easier ☺

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[Eavlynn]

Not too bad for a first build. We had to free hand with a circular saw so the lines aren't as perfect as I would have liked. I used latex sealant to seal up the inside and I think it looks pretty good. We opted in to paint the exterior black to match the AP cage we ordered. Just need to put the lexan polycarbonate door back on with the locks and we should be good to go!

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[Firemaniv]

Your enclosure is looking good. Before you know it you will have a bunch of them since you now know how to build them. Does your home Depot carry the pvc in 4x8 sheets or did you just use the smaller planks that the have? I did a melamine DIY, http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showthread.php?t=210213, but if I ever get to build another enclosure I want to try pvc.

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