Possible, Yes! Safe, Yes! Cheap, probably not!

I will start by saying size is hugely important. When you take into consideration wall thickness sheet material, door swing windows, electrical boxes, water, etc. Things start to get cramped.

My Herp room for example is 9'x17' (interior dimensions) while I have few issues with he long side of the room I can't stand in front of my rack to service the tub. There isn't enough room between the two apposing rows of cages.

My Rat shed is exactly what you describe building although not as dramatic. It's 6' and there is no space I have enough room to house one row of racks and barely enough room to service them.

I suggest getting some sheets and try the dimensions first before actual construction begins.

I would also look into code requirement of non-permanent structures. My rat shed is on skids and sits on pads to keep it level and above ground, its connected to electricity via a flexible conduit, and there is no plumbing. This type of structure doesn't require a permit as its not intended to stay on the property forever.

2x6 constructions is great, however I would call around to insulation contractors and see who can spray expanding foam insulation. This is far easier than cutting and stapling vapor barrier and fiberglass batts. It also fills the small voids that occur in small building construction.

House wrap is a must if using steel or vinyl siding, as all of those products are simple cosmetic. They are in no way a water barrier or wind barrier. They do let the home breath however.

If you think new homes are exempt from drafts you are mistaken. Other than those done as above with triple expanding foam, most new homes are prone to worse drafts than homes built a century ago. Cutting corners, doesn't improve anything.

I think it can be a wise idea if done correctly. There are tons of ways to adequately heat/cool small spaces. And keep in mind the more things hanging on the walls or siting on the floor consume a small spaces usability fairly quickly.

Cheers
-----
Jeremy Payne
JB Reptile

1.0 Snow "Kahl"
0.2 Triple Het Moonglow "Kahl"
0.1 Orange Tail Hypo Het Leopard
1.0 Ghost
0.1 DH Ghost
1.1 "Kahl" Albino
1.0.2 Hypomelenistic
1.3 Pastel Hypo
0.1 Anerthrystic
0.0.2 Normal

0.0.2 Morelia Viridis
1.0 Morelia Clastolepis

[ Show Entire Thread ]