Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I wanted to build a cage for a pair of Uromastyx. Considering they need a pretty hot basking spot, is it really safe to build an enclosure out of melamine? I'd like to do a 4'x2'x2' cage. For a 100-120 degree basking spot I was figuring on needing at least 100 watt incandescent bulb and maybe a heat mat? I'd also be using a flourescent fixture.

I'd really like to do it, but I'm worried about it getting too hot and causing a fire. All I can see is coming home from work and my house burnt to a crisp. Anyone have experience with melamine and high temps? Thanks very much for your input!

Melamine will withstand very high heat. Way above 100-120 degrees. Personally I have seen heat tape as hot as 225 degrees, where it has melted a plastic sweater box, and not phased the melamine at all. I dont think you have anything to worry about as far as the melamine goes, just be sure not to have any plant materials or anything like that close to the bulb.