First build - Ball Python enclosure

[dbank999]

So I have finally gotten around to starting the build project for my Ball Python's final home. I plan to use this thread as a semi-walkthrough, and to also gather some advice and input.

Final Dimensions are (LxWxH) 48"x20"x16"

Side walls and base:




Adding the back wall:




With the top and substrate dam:






I was torn on what to do with coloring, but ultimately decided to go with a two-tone stain. I prefer the look of a black interior versus a lighter color, so I went with Ebony for the inside and with Bombay Mahogany for the exterior:













I am torn between two methods for the front glass. Either have a split door opening outwards on each side using a 3/4 frame (to prevent a seam in the middle of the viewing area) or to use a sliding glass doors typical in a display case.

Also, I was wondering what thoughts are on here about sealing the inside of the enclosure. I plan on using aquarium silicone for the joints and seams. Not sure about what to use for the wood sealant. I was possibly thinking of using bar top epoxy, and doing each interior wall with this to create a decent seal. Then a light sanding of the bar top epoxy coat, followed by a low VOC polyurathane.

*This is my first post attempt with coded images - I am half expecting a failure LOL*

[bigsnakegirl785]

I used polyurethane by itself to treat and seal my wood and sealed the corners with caulk (which was covered by the poly), but I was warned that it may need multiple upon multiple coats. It seems to depend on each individual piece of wood. I only used 3 coats in my boa constrictor's enclosure, but the ball's enclosure really soaked it up so it took about 6 or so coats. I did have to add 2-3 more layers afterwards to the ball's, but other than that I haven't had any problems and they've been in these enclosures since the end of June. I'm also sure some other users can give you some additional sealers if you want.

I personally prefer sliding, since the open space in front of the enclosure doesn't really need to be taken into consideration when opening. I also prefer the look. :P

[LarryS]

Nice looking build!

Love the two tone coloring, I also prefer a dark interior. Did the ebony go on that dark with just one coat?

I am not quite sure I follow you on the split door idea. Which style of door do you prefer?

[Terranaut]

Looks great what are your plans for heat?
Personally I love a split opening door as you have suggested. I would incorporate the center rib your talking about on one of the doors. So you would have to close that one first. This way the bar is gone when both doors are open and there is nothing in the way or for your snake to grab on the way out.
Hope that makes sense

[dbank999]

Originally Posted by LarryS

Nice looking build!

Love the two tone coloring, I also prefer a dark interior. Did the ebony go on that dark with just one coat?

I am not quite sure I follow you on the split door idea. Which style of door do you prefer?

Thanks, I'm liking the two tone a lot as well, and yes that was only one coat of ebony lol, although I did not wipe it as I stained since I was going for the very dark look.

As for the doors, maybe this will help:






So as seen above, I want to create a 3/4 frame for the glass doors and have them hinged to open outward. This way, there is nothing more than the crease in between the two panes of glass.

Originally Posted by bigsnakegirl785

I only used 3 coats in my boa constrictor's enclosure, but the ball's enclosure really soaked it up so it took about 6 or so coats. I did have to add 2-3 more layers afterwards to the ball's

I will have to keep that in mind if I go with just a poly coat, thanks!

Originally Posted by Terranaut

Looks great what are your plans for heat?
Personally I love a split opening door as you have suggested. I would incorporate the center rib your talking about on one of the doors. So you would have to close that one first. This way the bar is gone when both doors are open and there is nothing in the way or for your snake to grab on the way out.
Hope that makes sense

This is a great point, I didn't even think of the middle bar acting like an anchor for the snakes

As for heat, my plan is to use a RHP mounted to the top of the enclosure.. unless anyone has a better recommendation for this set-up

[MizCandice]

build looks great so far! as to heat I have no where near the skill you do with construction but I know my balls do alot better with the belly heat and it definately helps to keep the humidity better in my enclosures then the back heat.

[dbank999]

Originally Posted by MizCandice

build looks great so far! as to heat I have no where near the skill you do with construction but I know my balls do alot better with the belly heat and it definately helps to keep the humidity better in my enclosures then the back heat.

Thank you!

And I have always wondered about belly heat vs RHP for Ball Pythons. It seems like for Balls, belly heat is prefered since they spend most of the time in their hides, rather than "perched" under a heat source.

So I guess my question is, will a RHP alone be sufficient enough for a Ball Python, or should there also be belly heat present for use if needed/desired?

I currently use an UTH to provide a temp gradient.

[Terranaut]

Single 80watt rhp. My royal is super healthy and humidity is perfect.

[smy_749]

I like this alot, dunno why. Seems fairly easy as you built no frame as well. Very nice.

[dbank999]

Originally Posted by Terranaut

Single 80watt rhp. My royal is super healthy and humidity is perfect.

Prefect, then I will continue with my plan of using a RHP for heat.

Glad everyone likes it so far! Thanks for all the nice comments..

I'm hoping I can get around to the doors this weekend, at least the frames.. still need to set up ventilation and lighting as well.

Will post updates soon

[Hurrok]

Very nice, can't wait to see the finished product. Makes me want to build some enclosures, always wanted a set-up like this!

[HoldenC]

Great first build! Keeping it clean and simple is the way to go. I'm interested to see how your doors turn out.

[SnoopySnake]

This looks great-can't wait to see it finished

[LarryS]

If this is your first build then I am looking forward to the next!

Great work, should inspire some that are contemplating a first build.

The 3/4 door frame you are describing, do you mean having the frame on the top, bottom and outsides but not the sides that meet in the middle? If so this would work fine so long as the glass is adhered securely into the frames so that is holds the door together.
It's an interesting idea, could work out very well. Great idea Terranaut came up with too. Always fun working out the details and then seeing them come together.

I may be miss understanding the hinge location. You described them opening outward. While this will work it is general, you may have some door sag. It is generally accepted practice to locate the hinges on the longest side of a door, in this case a down swinging door. If you use a good sturdy hinge system you may be ok on the side.

[sharthun]

Lookin Good!