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Chris/Observants,

Background:
I was lucky enough to have my next-door neighbour throw out a 5'x3'x2' dresser. It is in need of some work, but for the most part, the frame is strong and in great condition. There are three compartments, all 5' long. One is 16" tall and the other two are 10" each. There is no back right now, and the three different levels are seperated by thin sheetrock sort of material. Sorry I have no pictures right now, but just imagine a big solid wood rectangle with no drawers and some easy to remove sheetrock dividers to seperate where 3 long drawers would have gone.

Questions:

-Is 10" tall enough to house adult snakes (Ball Pythons, BRBs, or BCIs)? If not, I will take out a level and make there be just two compartments... one 20" tall and one 18" tall. (I am doing this housing in the interest of the animals and want to make something that is better than just basic or minimal.

-What is a good wood to use with reptiles (I will only need one or two pieces to replace the sheetrock that will sit below the substrate). I guess I need something non-toxic, light, strong, and able to stand up to humidity... (sounds impossible to find)

-Is peg board a safe back for the housing? I think it would be a good vent for the setup. Can it be waterproofed?

-What is a safe or recommended waterproofing to use on wood for reptiles?

-Do any of you know where I can read up on FlexWatt heat tape or a similar type of setup or would any of you be willing to explain how to use it properly and what I will need?

-What would any of you suggest for the front end or doors? tempered glass, plexi glass, plastic, something else? What is the best way to set up the door - left/right hinges, top down hinges, sliding doors, etc...?

Thank you for reading and helping me out... my project is underway. I have no experience with this kind of construction but I think with the proper education and planning it will be just fine.

Thanks again... I REALLY APPRECIATE THE HELP.
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-Iman
1.1 Sugar Gliders (Gizmo and Nema)
2.0 Ball Pythons (Spot and Speck)
0.1 Colombian BCI (Belle)
1.0 Colombian Rainbow (Rex)
0.1 Brazilian Rainbow (Just arrived!!!)

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Imans House of Herps

It depends on the kind of snake but...10" is okay, although I like a little more vertical space when possible...12-18."

You can buy flex-watt at beanfarm.com or maybe its thebeanfarm.com.

I like plexi glass...but I also have some cages that have tempered glass fronts. I use aluminum channeling with 2 sliding door (like a showcase doors).

I've never used a sealer on my wood because I'm afraid of long term effects...but I haven't had a rack or cage fall apart on me either. You might lay plastic on the bottom of the cage for easier clean up and less water damage...I've used this method...it's worked for my homemade cages.

Good Luck, Chris

I think peg board will be fine for the backs of your cages...but I've never used it so you might ask someone else.

Good tips and good advice!

You're the second to suggest sliding doors and the plastic is a great idea. I appreciate the help.

I hope I get some more suggestions on the pegboard and sealant.
-----
-Iman
1.1 Sugar Gliders (Gizmo and Nema)
2.0 Ball Pythons (Spot and Speck)
0.1 Colombian BCI (Belle)
1.0 Colombian Rainbow (Rex)
0.1 Brazilian Rainbow (Just arrived!!!)

Loving to Learn
Learning to Help
Helping to Love

Stimulate debates, stifle arguments.
Please be nice always.



Imans House of Herps