Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Under what conditions do plastic cages normally sag, stain, and melt?

I'm planning on housing my leopard geckos in Barrs cages. I'd like to stack them 3 cages high, no sand substrate, but I do use some heavy rock hides (probably altogether weighing no more than 10-15lbs. per enclosure). Would that still be okay for stacking?

I use under tank heating controlled by a rheostat device (which I do monitor), but how much heat can the plastic withstand before warping or melting?

I figured I didn't need the heavy duty designs other cage companies offer since these are only terrestrial geckos, but I do want to make sure I get something that will last me a long time.
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chickabowwow

BARRS cages aren't really made for heavy substrates, but the polystyrene plastic is very tough and can hold a good deal of weight if the load is distributed somewhat. I've had those rock dens in a BARRS cage, but opted for clay pots. Clay is lighter in weight and can be sprayed for a nice slightly-humid hide that dries out within the day (great for geckos).

As far as temperature, your geckos will burn before the plastic does. Keep that in mind when using undertank heating.
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Mark