Posted by:
Randall_Turner
at Thu Sep 30 11:48:46 2004 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by Randall_Turner ]
The way this one is built as I said is very very easy.
I was short a table saw so I went to home depot and picked up 3 sheets of the 4'x 2' 3/4" thick melamine (roughly 8-9 dollars a sheet for this size) I then picked up 4 of the 2'x11 3/4" 1/2" thick melamine shelves. (these are the sides and cost approximately $2.50 each) I also picked up a sheet of peg board for the back. You can go with a solid sheet of melamine for the back if you wish, but the peg board makes the enclosure lighter, and provides great ventilation.
Now what I did was take 2 sheets of the 4x2 and 2 of the shelves and made a backless box. I then took the final sheet of 4x2 and 2 shelves and attached the shelves to the top piece and set it square on the previously made box.. I then drilled at an angle from the ends and drove 2" deck screws into the lower box to provide a strong attachment. I then placed this on its front and attached the peg board to the back to give it added strength.. If you will be moving this around much I highly suggest getting swivel casters and installing them to provide you with an easy way to role it around. I then picked up some Stanley white plastic glass track from Home Depot (it is found in the window/door section usually around where they keep their plexi glass and sheet glass) I trim it to fit into the opening along the top and bottom, I also then trim the remaining section of it to fit along the side to provide a place for the doors to slide into when closing the door (it adds a bit of security and looks pretty nice)
Now what I do for heating is 2 things.. I install light fixtures I also lay flexwatt down and place a thin layer of plastic over the heat tape inside the enclosure.. I also run the plastic sheeting up 2" up the back to help prevent any fluids spilling through the holes in the peg board..
That is all I can think of now.. (I have kids making a fuss in the back ground..lol) If you have any questions let me know, or ask, as I know many great builders post on here and can give tips.
Later
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Randall L Turner Jr.
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RE: Plans for 4 foot cage - Randall_Turner, Thu Sep 30 11:48:46 2004