Temperature gradient

[Bogertophis]

Based on what you've said, I think you should measure basking temps on the top of the warm side hide. In any event, you should measure at the warmest place your bp can bask on. Otherwise, you risk giving your snake access to temps that are too high.

Agree, & IF using "UTH", be sure to push aside all substrate (just as snakes are known for doing) & take the temperature of the floor where they might make contact, to be sure they cannot be hurt.