Possible tank set-up? help?

[stevan]

Hey guys, I'm sorry to post this because you must get so many of these types of messages but...

I wondered if you would give me your opinions on this tank set-up before I start buying things, I also have a few questions along the way. All constructive comments would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

TANK
I was going to build the tank as such:
Front wall - glass - for viewing (obviously)
Bottom - glass- to conduct heat
Side and back walls - plastic - to better trap heat and humidity
Size = 20 gallon long ( 30"x12x12 LxWxH)

LID
Same as this one http://www.ball-pythons.net/forums/s...ad.php?t=32800

HEATING
150w red bulb with dimmer switch
2 heat mats connected to dual thermostat
* What size heat mats should I use for a 20G tank ? *
I will also add a digital thermometer and hydrogemeter as well as trying to acquire one of those lazer temperature reader things (sorry don't know what there called lol)

INSIDE
For hides I was wondering if I could use two of these: http://www.exo-terra.com/en/products/reptile_den.php
but would these fit a BP? Apparently the specs of the large den are 10x5x6 however several sites give different proportions so i don't know?
If not however I was thinking about one of these:
http://www.exo-terra.com/en/products/snake_cave.php
Again not sure on size? advice?
I will also add some sort of water source and a log.

That's everything I can think of right now. So thanks in advance. If theres anything I've left out or you can answer any of my questions, please leave a message.

Stevan

[Kagez28]

sounds good. just a few questions tho...

are you planning on getting a hatchling, or a larger ball? hatchlings are extremely shy, so a large enclosure is going to stress them out and be trouble for you. they will do good in a plastic tub (sterilite, rubbermaid), usually like 9 qt to start then maybe a 12 or 15 qt. then once they are a little bigger, you can put them in your custom tank.

you can build the tank and have it ready, but for a baby i think it is a little to large.

and about the heat pads... check out http://www.reptilebasics.com , and check out the flexwatt heat tape. it is the same thing as a heat mat/pad, with out the plastic and such. plus it's thinner and cheaper. you just have to either wire it yourself, or have Rich (the owner) wire it for you, he does it for free, just buy the clips and cord. i love this stuff it works great on tanks and in racks. you'll have to buy a thermostat, which you should have anyway to monitor any UTH (they can get to 110deg+).

hope this stuff helps alittle.

[Argentra]

Just a head's up...

Rich now carries the Ultratherm heat pad, which is a great alternative to flexwatt if you only have one or two tanks to heat. It's made similar to the flexwatt and has a low voltage to keep it from getting too hot like most pads. Also it's sealed in, laminated you might say, to better protect from moisture. After a good talk with him, he recommended the pad to me. Prices aren't bad either.

[stevan]

Firstly thank you for your advice.

Yeah I am getting a hatchling so I guess Ill go with one of those tubs untill it is older but are they ok to heat it with heat tape? and once you attach it can it be removed? and dose anyone know if he ships to the UK ?

If anyone else has anything please let me know