Cage Dimensions and waterproofing questions.

[NickTide]

Getting back into chameleons after 20 years... I was considering turning a China hutch type cabinet into a cage. Waterproof the inside, turn the sides and tops into screened Windows.

I was wondering, is marine paint still the way to go for waterproofing? I've seen a wooden fish tank that last over 20 years of constant use and abuse that was coated with this.

Also, recommended cage of 2' x 2's 4' gives a 4' square foot print. Would cage that is say 4' long but only 12" or 18" deemed x 4' tall be acceptable?

I've not heard good things about the reptibreeze strength (or looks for ghat matter) and I'm not handy enough to build a nice hutch type cage from scratch, but I am very good at repurposing thing like the hutch into a cage.

Any help is appreciated. Planning on getting my veildes within a few weeks.

 

[jamest0o0]

I've never used marine paint, but if it's safe for fish, it's safe for chams. 4 foot long and 18" front to back would probably be fine.

 

[NickTide]

I've never used marine paint, but if it's safe for fish, it's safe for chams. 4 foot long and 18" front to back would probably be fine.

Thanks, Wasn't sure how much they needed depth for hiding, etc..

 

[jamest0o0]

I'd just utilize the 4 foot length more, make some little hiding spots with plants so they can get out of sight. I wouldn't go lower than 18" though

 

[JacksJill]

If you could pop out the back a few inches you could get the extra room. 2 feet of depth seems to work well with the mister spray pattern.

 

[NickTide]

If you could pop out the back a few inches you could get the extra room. 2 feet of depth seems to work well with the mister spray pattern.

Didn't think about the mister spray panel... good thought... and popping the back out shouldn't be too much trouble. Any thoughts on water / mildew proofing the wood in a safe way?

 

[JacksJill]

I always say to use pond liner and silicone especially around the bottom where you might get standing water. Keep in mind that once you do any kind of water proofing any holes you make for stapling in the screen or other attachments should get treated to prevent warping swelling and mildew.