Ideas/Help with display-type enclosure

[kfcluverzunite]

I am currently looking for thoughts/opinions on the best way to build a large display enclosure for an Adult 1.0 Coastal Carpet. I have all the proper tools and equipment to do so, but i'm not sure what dimensions i should build it to, or how to properly heat the enclosure as i feel lamps would not be enough for such a large area. Any ideas or tips for how to properly heat would be appreciated. I am looking to make it 5-7ft long and at least 4ft high.

[trailblazer295]

You have good length and height, I wouldn't make it less than 2' deep. More is great for the snake but makes reaching the back yourself more difficult for cleaning. As for heating you could use a CHE but would have to use a guard to prevent the snake from touching it or you could use a RHP. Personally I'm a big fan heat panels more cost upfront but less to run and no burn risk to the snake.

What material would you be building it out of? Most materials will come in 6 or 8' or multiples of 2. I would go 8' over 7' simply because you'll be cutting a lot of material short. Unless the space isn't 8ft wide.

[kfcluverzunite]

most likely melamine with a large glass front

[dannybgoode]

For heating such a large enclosure I'd use 2 or 3 (maybe even 4) lower watt che's in a cluster am because a) you'll get a better spread of heat and a nice sized basking spot and b) it is better to spread the load over multiple heat bulbs then rely on one really high powered one.

Plus you have redundancy so if one fails the rest will still keep the temperature where it needs to be.

Substrate - mix your own. Topsoil, sand and coco coir are your friends here and will bed much cheaper than a reptile branded mix.

Would love to see it when finished. Sounds awesome...