Posted by:
mbrawley
at Mon Jun 27 13:01:48 2011 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by mbrawley ]
I built this hatchling unit last year. It is actually two units put together. The lower unit has 8 levels, and the top has 7, @ 6 tubs across...holds 90 tubs.
My only real complaint is the weight....it's a beast to roll around, let alone lift. There has been a little sagging, but I anticipated this and so placed spacers down the center of each level. I've also recently separated the two units and with individual flex watt for each of them, this has proved to be better. Additionally, while anticipating the gradual sagging, I spaced the levels a little more than 1/16th. I found some white vinyl sheeting that I've cut to fit each level. I've slid this in to to the levels, beneath the tubs, housing the smaller hatchlings where "escape" was more of a concern. Doing this closed the gap a little and so far so good. No escapees! 
The 2nd melamine rack to the right, in the middle pic, is at least 15 years old. Of course the levels are not as wide as the hatchling unit's, but it's held up well and has had virtually zero sagging.
If you're gonna go with wood, and don't mind the significant weight increase, melamine works great. It wipes down easily, looks good, and I believe is probably more sanitary.
Good luck!
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RE: Need some opinions on Tubs... - mbrawley, Mon Jun 27 13:01:48 2011