What type of wood should i use to build a viv with?

[jodyberry]

Well, I wouldn't say melamine is as bad as everyone says. Yes, it's heavy and not the most attractive, but I've had no issues with cracking.
Plus, it's very easy clean up and I don't have to worry about toxic varnish, stains, etc. And it was super easy to work with (cutting, assembling, etc.)

I agree it's not as warm (visually) as dark wood, but I still think they turned out OK: http://jodyberry.smugmug.com/Vivarium/Vivarium/15140299_RNgEn#1137740208_dWTgh

 

[Dementeddogz]

Its not just so much cracking, I work with a wide range of products daily and have the skills to assemble with almost no indicdents but even if its put together properly I wouldnt recommend it. Its got the non porous surface going for it easy to wipe down doesnt need to be stained exc. But its heavy I would never stack, must take care not to split, nowhere near as sturdy as comparably priced lumber. Its essentially particle board, I use it occasionally in some kitchens or shelving when a budget is involved but thats about it. formaldehyde isnt as big of a concern as it used to be but still. I dont find it much easier to work with then any other plywood. Id recommend using a hardwood, birch, oak, exc. Can melamine be used for a viv? Sure and you may never have any problems with it but youll never have the same security, look, or quality you would with other options.

 

[pumpkinman]

I used 3/4" plywood. Some was maple ply, some was spruce. I had some laying around. I used maple/birch ply for the visable parts and spruce for the hidden parts. Ply holds fasteners way better and will not crack.
Then I lined the inside with FRP panels: http://www.ippnet.com/plastics/construction-materials/frp-sheets.html
A 4x8' sheet is $50 at the big box stores. This product is used in commercial washrooms and kitchens and is very sanitary. The dimpled finish looks cool too.

 

[pumpkinman]

Couple pics viewtopic.php?f=34&t=139649

 

[joeyb504]

all of my cages are built out of melamine and have no problem stacking three high. yes they are heavy but that hsn't been to much of a problem.

 

[dleffler78]

Just wanted to add that I am currently building a viv and I got a nice piece of 8x4 - 3/4" Birch plywood. It has worked very nicely so far... sturdy, no cracking and looks good.