Question for Melamine enclosures

[red_tail_ale]

So, I'm building an enclosure for my growing RTB. It'll accomadate her up to 12ft, but I'm doing what I can do make it comfortable at her current 4.5ft.

I'm planning to build everything out of melamine, even the perch and build-in hides.

I have a few questions for others who have melamine enclosures...

-Does standard melamine need to be treated? If so, what is the best non-toxic treatment?
-Does melamine deteriorate quickly under hot/humid conditions?
-What is the best caulk/sealant for the edges?
-Is there any risk of chemicals in the melamine becoming toxic for the snake?
-How well can standard melamine retain heat (belly-heat for the basking spot?)


Also, if anybody can suggest a better alternative to melamine, I'd love to hear it.

I've used cypress mulch as substrate and have had great results- I plan to continue using it for her large enclosure. (Don't worry, already planned a substrate dam).