Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey,

I am planning on building a three level 36x17" rack. I would like to place this 36" rack under a five level 24x17" rack.

I would ideally like to place them in sort of an "L" shape, but am worried that the 36" melamine might sag under the weight of the current rack. Anyone have any thoughts?

Thanks
Ryan

This is not really a strength issue but rather a flex issue.

I'm not sure if I understand your proposed configuration exactly, but I'm still working on my morning coffee. LOL.

Regardless, your biggest issue is the weight of the upper rack flexing the upper shelf of the lower rack and possible causing the boxes to sieze. I'm sure this is what you mean by strength.

If you can use some sort of shim or spacer than distributes the weight to the sides of the lower rack rather than the top shelf you will be fine.

It might also be worth adding a solid back to the lower rack, if possible, and seeing if you can configure it so that it takes some of the weight of the upper rack.

I've stacked many a rack, or used racks to hold other cages, but I always make sure the sides are taking the weight.

I was indeed talking about the flex issue.

My plan would have had have looked like this...
_______
| |
| |
| |__
| |
|_________|

The top section would be 24"x17"x5 levels (six inch tub height)

The bottom part is 36"x17"x3 levels

I dont know what I would put as backing material, on the first I just tacked on pegboard.

Do you think this would flex too much? Even if not right away, maybe over time? Thanks for the help!

no

I think that would flex over time but you can work with it.

If you build a small platform to fit between the lower rack and the upper rack you should be able to transfer the weight to the sides of the lower rack. The platform should extend all the way to the sides of the lower rack or slightly over.

Maybe take some 3" strips of melmine and make a frame that is 36" x 16". Build the frame so the 3" width is going up and down and not flat. If you then tack some washers or some sort of shim onto the top of the sides of the lower rack and set the frame on them this should take care of things. The washers or shims will hold the frame slightly above the top of the lower rack.

Then set the other rack on top of the frame and the weight will be distributed to the sides. If the frame flexes the spacers will prevent it from actually contacting the top shelf of the lower rack.

Obviously you may have to figure something out to keep the whole unit stable. Since you built the racks in the first place (or at least I think you did) this should be easy.

I know a picture or drawing would be much more helpful than a written description so I hope this makes sense.

It makes sense, I think, it's so hard to converse via typing...

I actually have the 24x17 built. I am planning on building the 36" to accomidate growing balls.

Thanks for the help