Want bigger cage.

[kueluck]

I'm thinking about building a big cage for the 4 girls just not sure which route to go. Has anyone used this site for such a task? How to build enclosures for reptiles - custom snake cages - arboreal snake cages - snake keeping cage info - homemade reptile cages (http://www.reptile-cage-plans.com/index.html)

I've thought about the Exo Terra 36 x 18 x 36, but I think I can go much bigger if I build something myself. We (husband and self) are handy with power tools so I think we could pull this off.

[Stefan-A]

The only tools I've used for planning a build, was Excel and O2 (which is a program for making addons for an old computer game).

[Steveo]

I used to build my own aquarium racks. Other than measuring my available space, everything else was worked out with pencil and paper. If you know the cuts you need in advance, go to a Home Depot or Lowes for lumber and they can cut it for you. Granted, aquarium racks are not as complex as herp enclosures, but coming home with the wood already cut enabled me to screw everything together in a short amount of time.

[kueluck]

Not only does this need to be the best for my girls, but needs to look good since it will be one of the main pieces in my living room. I guess the problem for me is figuring out how to ventilate, and the construction of the door with glass. I want the front door to open from the top with hinges on the bottom. Would use metal support bars like a writing desk would have. For us it would be easier to have the plans already laid out. Also would UTH mat work with a wooden bottom?

[Stefan-A]

Also would UTH mat work with a wooden bottom?
With a very thin bottom and very thin layer of substrate, yes.

[kueluck]

This layer of substrate won't work, Zena LOVES to burrow. Might just have to go with the Exo Terra 36x18x36. I can do two levels with this one. Thanks for your input though, it's appreciated.

[EasternGirl]

Steve, Chris, and Greg would be excellent members to help you with this...they all have experience building lovely enclosures. I think we have a thread or two on here that discusses building enclosures. Mark Cope would also be a good person to talk to...

[kueluck]

I gave up looking for threads on this after 30 min, but if you have a link I would love it, thanks
Steve, Chris, and Greg would be excellent members to help you with this...they all have experience building lovely enclosures. I think we have a thread or two on here that discusses building enclosures. Mark Cope would also be a good person to talk to...

[EasternGirl]

Okay...I will look.

[EasternGirl]

Here is one: http://www.thamnophis.com/forum/enclosures/10338-marthas-new-digs-build-begins.html

Here is another: http://www.thamnophis.com/forum/enclosures/4597-task-commences.html

I would ask Steve about his. Also...if you just browse the Enclosures forum...you might be able to get some ideas.

[kueluck]

Thought....................any reason why I could NOT use an existing wooden display cabinet w/glass doors for snake cage? Modify it with ventilation and waterproof bottom? What things to avoid.

[guidofatherof5]

Are the doors on sliders or hinged?

[EasternGirl]

I have heard of other people doing it...if you know how to modify things the correct way. Someone on here did it...I remember. But I can't remember who. Anyone?

[kueluck]

Steve: does it matter? I haven't found anything yet, still throwing around the idea. Since Zena & Company won't come together until next year I have time to come up with an idea.

[ProXimuS]

I have heard of other people doing it...if you know how to modify things the correct way. Someone on here did it...I remember. But I can't remember who. Anyone?

This is what came to my mind:
http://www.thamnophis.com/forum/enclosures/5472-heavy-duty-enclosure.html

Pretty cool idea, but seems like looots of work!

[EasternGirl]

Yeah...I came across that one..but figured she might just want to talk to Steve about it instead. Pretty involved.

[kueluck]

THAT is way bigger than I've planned for. I'm thinkin' more like 4ft(L) x 2ft(W) x 3ft(H). I've got it in my head, but I just don't have the skills to put in on paper.