Easy DIY Plywood Reptile Enclosures

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Building Plywood Reptile Enclosures

Materials Needed:

• OSB (Oriented Strand Board)
• 2x2s and 2x4s
• Wood glue
• Screws (1.5”, 1”, 2.5”, 4”, 6”)
• Jig Saw
• Countersink Bit
• Drill
• Common Boards
• Contact Cement
• Latex Paint
• Polyurethane
• Silicone
• Geotextile Fabric
• Sun Blocking Screen
• Stainless Steel Staples
• Corrugated Polycarbonate
• Non-Mortise Hinges
• Neodymium Magnets
• Showcase Locks
• Handles
• Glass (1/8” thick plate glass, 1/4” thick plate glass, tempered glass)
• Nail Gun
• Ruler
• Brush and Roller for applying sealants
• Spline roller
• Saw (table saw, miter saw)
• Chisel
• Forstner Drill Bit
• Knob
• Bracket for wall mounting

Step 1: Building the Main Structure

1. Measure and mark the sides of the enclosure on the OSB.
2. Cut out the sections using a Jig Saw, ensuring the bottom area is larger for the substrate compartment.
3. Prop up the cut pieces with the back panel to ensure they fit correctly.
4. Apply wood glue to the edges and clamp the corners together.
5. Drill holes for screws using a Countersink Bit to prevent splitting.
6. Secure the pieces with screws, repeating the process for all sides.

Step 2: Adding Cross Braces and Reinforcements

1. Apply glue to the ends of the cross braces and secure them with screws.
2. Use 2x2s and 2x4s to reinforce the structure based on the tank size.
3. Apply glue along the 2x2s on the bottom and secure the OSB over it with screws.

Step 3: Sealing the Enclosure

1. Apply sealants (Liquid Rubber, Pond Shield Epoxy) to the inside of the tank to waterproof it.
2. Use a brush and roller to apply the sealants, ensuring thorough coverage.
3. Use Geotextile Fabric in the seams to strengthen them.
4. Cover all wood surfaces with the sealants.

Step 4: Adding Ventilation and Finishing Touches

1. Secure a Sun Blocking Screen over ventilation holes with Stainless Steel Staples.
2. Conceal the edges with Contact Cement or Construction Adhesive.
3. Paint the exterior with Latex Paint or stain and seal the wood.
4. Attach casters to the bottom for easy mobility.
5. Conceal exposed areas with trim boards.

Step 5: Adding Glass Doors

1. Frame the glass doors using common boards and plate glass.
2. Secure the glass in the frame with glue and nails.
3. Apply silicone along the edges to seal the glass to the door.
4. Attach hinges, magnets, and a knob for functionality.

Step 6: Final Touches and Placement

1. Sand and stain the enclosure for a finished look.
2. Add screens to the top of the tanks for ventilation.
3. Mount the enclosures on a rack or use them as standalone pieces.
4. Secure the tanks to the wall for stability.

By following these steps, you can create your own plywood reptile enclosures similar to the ones featured in the video. Customize the sizes and materials based on your needs and preferences for your reptile pets.