Pre-Build Questions

Tusker40 · 09-28-20, 02:40 PM

Hello all,

Sorry in advance for the wordy/lengthy post. I am finalizing plans for a new enclosure for my BCI. I want to ask some questions to the group before I move forward with the build. After the build is complete, I will post my detailed plans with pics for anyone to use.

Details: It will be 72”x30”x30”, made out of melamine boards, sliding glass doors, and using Pro Products RHP PH-22, 680 BTU/h, 200 watt, 24" x 24" x 1" panel for heat.

Questions:
1. Timing- Hoping this will be a permanent home for my boa. At 72”x30”x30”, when can she move in? She’s currently 4 months old in a 40 gallon breeder. Plenty big for now, hoping to move her in at 9 months old and put a new baby boa in her old tank. Any potential risk in doing this? Too young, enclosure too big, etc? I’ll supply plenty of hides, climbing material, etc.

2. Ventilation- is there a correct amount? Does there need to be cross ventilation? I planned on just having twelve 1/4” holes drilled into the sliding glass doors. Is that enough or do I need to put additional vents on the back?

3. RHP mounting- Being that Melamine is particle board, when I mount the radiant heat panel, do I just screw it into the melamine with pre drilled holes, or drill all the way through and use a nut/washer/bolt? The board is only 3/4” thick, so I worry about the weight of the RHP eventually pulling out and falling into the enclosure.

Thanks for your help!!