Thread 2948017

I have siliconed together some glass panels to make an enclosure for a reptile. It is 19"x42". I need something to use as a lid. When I first put this together, I assumed that I would use plywood as the lid. I then came to realize that all plywood is warped to fuck and not flat at all. So then I brainstormed.

Plexiglass? Seems difficult to cut and drill, which I will need to do to make room for ventilation and for an LED light strip attached to the bottom of the lid.

Hardboard/particle board? Seems like a decent answer (specifically hardboard). I've never used it in my life. Apparently the Home Depot near me carries it. Is it going to be just as warped as the plywood they sell? Or is it actually going to be flat?

Any other ideas for what to use? I need to be able to drill it and cut it. Drill for ventilation holes and cut to make a rim around the edge so that it actually stays on the tank.

The primary question here is whether or not there is such thing as reliably flat hardboard and where to acquire such hardboard.

preemptive

Do you have access to a 3D printer? You could 3D print something that would fit snugly, and even lock to the enclosure.

>>2948023
Is it common to find 3D printers with enough room to print something that large? I don't own one so I'd have to scout around places near me.

>>2948017 (OP)
see if you have a plastic fabrication shop near you, they might be able to help. flat plywood does exist, but if you want really flat, get a sheet of MDF in whatever thickness tickles your fancy. Get at least 1/2" for stability. easy to cut and drill with normal wood tools. if you are putting an edge around it you can use 1"x1" pieces of wood and glue/screw it on.

>>2948026
I have no fucking idea, my library offers 3d printing though. And it wouldn't have to be a solid piece, you could design like 4 puzzle pieces that would snap together, but cover the area.

Why a lid and not a net?

>>2948190
Yeah I can't believe how stupid OP is. Just use a mesh window screen kit. This one is $26CAD as long as you own a hacksaw and have half a brain then this is a 20 minute job tops. Plus it won't be super dark in there and won't look like you found it in a dumpster.

>>2948190
>>2948194

I have cats that will 100% get through window screen. Already thought of that. There will be window screen involved but it will be under the solid lid surface, used to block off the ventilation holes. Fags.

Captcha: 2WRMY lol

Egg crate for lighting is cheap, lightweight, and can be cut to size with dikes. Allows for plenty of securing options like clips or weights. You could also buy a metal mesh lid from the pet store for about the same cost.