I haven't built a rack before, so I was wondering what types of materials people suggest? I was thinking of melamine, but am up for suggestions.

Melamine is almost the least amount of work since it doesn't need to be sealed but it is VERY heavy , has no strength and really shouldn't be screwed directly into.

The hollow core doors work well but need to be sealed and its a bit of work getting the shelves ready for assembly.

What size tub do you plan on using? Knowing that I could give a few choices other than those 2.

Thanks for the reply.

I am going to be using 28qt and 41qt tubs. I was thinking probably 7 levels. On the levels with 28qt tubs probably 2 tubs. The levels with 41qt just 1 tub.

Go with cabinet grade plywood... put on 3 coats of Poly U and you're good to go. I built 2-7tub racks and it cost about 75$ a piece. Much lighter than melamine but still pretty heavy.

For those you could use the hardwood ply or hollow core doors. I've used melamine for most of mine and its blow a gut heavy.

Ahh, I hate it when people knock melamine for being heavy, why don't you guys grow a pair and lift some weights!:rockon::lol:

I could lift all these at once, with one arm, better yet, one finger.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb251/pwilliams58/Snakeroom/IMG_0002.jpg

LOL , I have a melamine rack for ya , weighs over 300 pounds. I'll watch ya lift ya all day long while I sit with a cold beer and my boys still where God put'm.

LOL , I have a melamine rack for ya , weighs over 300 pounds. I'll watch ya lift ya all day long while I sit with a cold beer and my boys still where God put'm.

You just tell me when and where Bryon!:rockon:

You gots far more gumption than I do. When I get ready to move I'll call , LMAO.

I just built three melamine cb-70 racks, only the shelves are melamine though, the sides are 1 X 4, very sturdy, yet lighter than a full melamine rack, but if you live in a one level house it isn't a problem, just add wheels. Melamine racks are great in my opinion.

LOL , I have a melamine rack for ya , weighs over 300 pounds. I'll watch ya lift ya all day long while I sit with a cold beer and my boys still where God put'm.

LMFAO. there's an older and wiser man....:lmao:

i some times use 3/4 inch pywood but you have to seal it but it holds up good

Melamine isn't bad as long as its worked right. I learned after getting the monstrosity of a 8 slot 74 qt rack with melamine shelves and 1/2" hardwood sides into the snakehouse that stackable racks be much mo better. I ain't getting any younger and these days things start hurting a lot easier.

Go with cabinet grade plywood... put on 3 coats of Poly U and you're good to go. I built 2-7tub racks and it cost about 75$ a piece. Much lighter than melamine but still pretty heavy.

got any pics

Here is a melamine (mdf) rack I made that holds 41 and 28

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b214/FloridaHogs/Cages/100_3787.jpg

Here is a melamine (mdf) rack I made that holds 41 and 28

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b214/FloridaHogs/Cages/100_3787.jpg

how much did the one with adults cost to make i like that design:yourock: btw what's the room temp,and do they have belly heat

Here is a melamine (mdf) rack I made that holds 41 and 28

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b214/FloridaHogs/Cages/100_3787.jpg

When you posting a 'how-to' for that bad boy?? I love the design. If you won't ship one to me, the least you can do is divulge your secrets.....:lol:


Cheers,
Katmandhu

AMEN lol

That is a nice rack...

Not a big fan of melamine for the reasons mentioned, but those are some nice looking racks and we DO need a 'how-to' ASAP! :cool:

how much did the one with adults cost to make i like that design:yourock: btw what's the room temp,and do they have belly heat
Belly heat, and my room stays between 75 and 80 year round.

When you posting a 'how-to' for that bad boy?? I love the design. If you won't ship one to me, the least you can do is divulge your secrets.....:lol:


Cheers,
Katmandhu

AMEN lol

Not a big fan of melamine for the reasons mentioned, but those are some nice looking racks and we DO need a 'how-to' ASAP! :cool:



OK, OK, I will see if I still have the building pics.....

:rockon::yourock: