Going to be making the crossfire, need help

[Beardie321]

I just have a question about the sides. i really liked the look of bamboo blinds, however I do not think that will work. So what can I put on the melamine to give it some patterns/look. Thanks!

 

[Taterbug]

You could probably hang the blinds in it, just trim them to size?

If you use plywood, you can get a top-grade sheet and then seal it with polyurethane. The natural wood can have some very nice patterns.

 

[Beardie321]

You could probably hang the blinds in it, just trim them to size?

If you use plywood, you can get a top-grade sheet and then seal it with polyurethane. The natural wood can have some very nice patterns.

Is there any thing that I could almost use as like a background that sticks or I glue to the melamine. I saw someone used Formica. I am looking for a natural wood look aswell.

 

[Beardie321]

Also, what size UVB fixture should I buy, I plan to mount it in the tank with 1-2 lights haven't deicded yet. Going with the 4x2x2. I plan to get the arcadia 12% now!! Was thinking maybe 34, but not sure.


Curious what the difference is between the 34 and 36, what one is better? They have charts and are both different.


34 inch-http://www.lightyourreptiles.com/ard3t534in39.html
36 inch-http://www.lightyourreptiles.com/d3rela36fall.html

 

[Taterbug]

If you add something you'll need to make sure it doesn't release chemicals when heated - not sure what would be best.

The lights you have ... The bulb you choose may effect your construction/layout plans.

The 34" is a T5. Id consider a 22" in that style - they are much stronger than the T8. You'll want to allow the dragon to escape the UVB if it wants. It's very bright - I'd consider mounting it against the front top corner - above the glass. You'll get less glare and it's strong enough with a reflective fixture your dragon still gets the exposure it needs.

The 36" is a T8 - that size is appropriate. Plan to keep a moderate distance - the dragon should be 6-8" from this while basking.


I have a crossfire as well. Recently I upgraded to the T5s - I have four lights currently. I really thing the T5 is worth

1x 22" T5 reptisun 10,
1x 22" T5 ultrasun (full spectrum)
1x 36" T8 tropicsun (full spectrum)
1x 60W halogen flood

 

[Beardie321]

Alright, so if I go with the 22 inch one, would I use just 1 bulb?

 

[Taterbug]

Just one UVB yes. You can use two bulbs (for more light) but the other should be a full spectrum - not UVB. If you do two you'll want to plan around the fixture. The two bulb fixtures Todd sells at lightyourreptiles I am told get warm - the solid wood too on the cross fire would need an opening for ventilation. I didn't want to cut my lid so I got a end cap style fixture so I can have the lights end to end, rather than side by side.

 

[Beardie321]

Thank you so far for your help. What fixture would you recommend? It seems all the fixtures come with a lightbulb I do not need, what should I do?

 

[Taterbug]

That was a problem I had too. I think the fixtures at lightyourreptiles reptiles are good - and they can ship with the Arcadia bulb.

I ended up getting this one, they also sell reflectors for it. I was working around existing fixtures though so I wanted as slim as possible. I also have a solarmeter so I used that when I was positioning it. The cables are just long enough - I have the controller mounted outside the tank to the wall directly next to it.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0017JBLRO/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?qid=1402430827&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70

 

[Beardie321]

Alright so I decided to go with the (Arcadia D3+ T-5 22 Inch 24 Watt *12% Desert UVB* The Original Reptile HO T5 In North America!) Set, so that is taken care of. Now what do you use for a heat lamp? What fixture I guess I am asking. Also, what did you use around your cage, still have not been able to find anything. ! thanks!

 

[Taterbug]

I was using an articulating spotlight fixture but it was really long. I use one of these now

I used top grade oak plywood and sealed it.

 

[Beardie321]

I was using an articulating spotlight fixture but it was really long. I use one of these now

I used top grade oak plywood and sealed it.

Nice, yeah I want to use melamine for cleaning reasons, but then use like bamboo blinds is my hope but idk.
Where did you get that light fixture?

 

[Taterbug]

Lowes - they are in the contractor lighting area - near the wiring boxes I think.

The wood has no problem with cleaning - I think we put about 4-5 coats of sealer through. I don't like melamine.

 

[Beardie321]

Any ideas on where to find bamboo placemats/blinds?

 

[Taterbug]

Do you have a big lots? That's where I got mine at a very good price. The catch with trimming them is that the cheap ones are not very stabile when cut - I had to get creative about it.

Lowes, Home Depot or Walmart may have them too.