Am I On The Right Track?

[Brett943]

I am currently building a 36"x18"x18" melamine enclosure for a Corn, King, Milk or possibly Ball Python. It has a 3" substrate dam and an acrylic front/door.

I have read that marine sealant/silicone would be good for the seams/joints inside. Is this a good choice?

For the exposed wood I was going to spray with coats of varathane to seal the melamine from getting moisture in it. Is this alright?

I am going with belly heat either with an UTH or heat tape (never used before). Which would you recommend? Thermostat will of course be used.
My plan was to build a raised platform at 1 end with heat on the bottom of the enclosure with a small gap and pegboard which the snake would essentially rest on so the heat will rise up through the holes. I will run the wiring out the gap where the snake has no access.

For the 1/4" acrylic front should I screw the hinges to it or use and adhesive?

Any advice on things to change?

First pic is looking in from front before substrate dam and acrylic. 2nd pic is looking down on the front with acrylic front mocked up but not attached.

Thanks,
Brett