Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Just wondering what type of material people use to build racks systems. Any info or plans would be great. Thanks

Matt

I think it depends on what size boxes you are going to use and how mobile you need the rack to be.

For cheapness and simplicity, melamine or a combination of plywood and melamine is hard to beat. I built a 7-tier rack for $40 using inexpensive 1/2" plywood and bull-nosed melamine shelving from menards.

Given that many 5-tier racks cost over $200 the savings are huge.

But the rack was heavy.

Using just plywood does not save that much weight and you have to take extra efforts to seal the wood. However, one can make a very attractive rack this way.

As far as plastics, foamed PVC (boaphile material) is great but has a slightly more difficult learning curve and the material is expensive. However, it simply makes outstanding racks. They're fairly light, flame resistant, and have great thermal properties.

For larger boxes than the typical 28 - 32 qt. tubs PVC becomes even more cost prohibitive.

Thanks. I think I am going to use Melamine.