secure tops for tank?

[Aayrick]

I recently purchased a used 120 gallon aquarium which I'm still cleaning up and sanitizing. This will be the new home for my Redtail Boa, Stryker. I'm trying to figure out the best way to either make a secure top or buy one I can slide on.

Right now, my idea is to make a tight fitting frame out of metal corner stock with heavy screening attached for airflow, securing it with ratchet straps in three places.

There is a place which does custom metal fabrication, but I'm guessing having them make a top would be pretty expensive.

Any suggestions on making sure this will be secure?

[toddnbecka]

I've been using pegboard for tank tops. For a large boa in a 120 I'd recommend a metal frame of some sort to secure the edges, but screen is lousy for holding humidity. I use foamboard (thin styrofoam sheets with paper on both sides, peel off the paper) over top of most of the pegboard to hold in humidity and secure the top with straps. I found nylon straps with velcro and metal clips called Tera Tiedowns online, the larger size works very well on 12-18" tanks. The metal clips hook under the plastic tank rim, easier to work with than ratchet tie down straps.

[sattva]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ri17AGZ_N9o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEkjEBV9idI

[Aayrick]

I've been using pegboard for tank tops. For a large boa in a 120 I'd recommend a metal frame of some sort to secure the edges, but screen is lousy for holding humidity. I use foamboard (thin styrofoam sheets with paper on both sides, peel off the paper) over top of most of the pegboard to hold in humidity and secure the top with straps. I found nylon straps with velcro and metal clips called Tera Tiedowns online, the larger size works very well on 12-18" tanks. The metal clips hook under the plastic tank rim, easier to work with than ratchet tie down straps.

I hadn't thought about pegboard and will look into those Tera Tiedowns. Thanks for the tips. As for holding in humidity, I've been using oven liner on my other tanks since I don't have to worry about it burning under the heat lamps I'm using.

[akane]

The pegboard is interesting. I didn't think of that since I'm used to keeping mammals who will just chew on it.