How to Make a Mesh Top for a Snake Cage

The type of cover used on a terrarium or snake tank is very important for the health of your pet. Screen or mesh covers have small holes which allow air to continually circulate while providing a secure cover, to prevent your snake from escaping. The screens can be constructed to fit tanks of all sizes.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Permanent marker
  • 1-by-1-inch lumber
  • 1-by-2-inch lumber
  • Circular saw
  • 1/4-inch wire mesh
  • Wire cutters
  • Staple gun
  • Staples
  • Screwdriver
  • 1 1/2 inch wood screws
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the width of your terrarium. Measure, mark and cut two pieces of 1-by-1-inch lumber which correspond to the measurement. These are your left and right edge of the terrarium cover. Measure, mark and cut two pieces of 1-by-2-inch lumber which correspond to the measurement. These are the left and right tops of your terrarium cover.

    • 2

      Measure the length of your terrarium. Add 2 inches to the measurement. Measure, mark and cut two pieces of 1-by-1-inch lumber which correspond to the measurement. These are your front and back edges of the terrarium cover. Measure, mark and cut two pieces of 1-by-2-inch lumber which correspond to the measurement. These are the front and back tops of your terrarium.

    • 3

      Position the left, right, front and back edge on a flat surface in front of you, to form a rectangle shape. The left and right edges should be positioned inside the front and back edges. Secure the four pieces together using 1 1/2 inch wood screws at each corner.

    • 4

      Position the left, right, front and back tops on top of the frame created in Step 3. These pieces should all be positioned on a 2-inch edge. Align the outer edge of each piece with the outer edges of the frame. Secure the top pieces to the bottom pieces using 1 1/2 inch wood screws, spaced 2 inches from each corner. Flip the entire frame upside down.

    • 5

      Add 1 inch to the width and 1 inch to the length of the terrarium. Measure, mark and cut a corresponding piece of wire mesh. Cut 1/2-inch squares out of all four corners of the wire mesh.

    • 6

      Center the wire mesh over the frame. Bend the sides up so they are flush with the sides of the frame. Staple the mesh to the frame along the top and edge pieces. The staples should be closely spaced.

    • 7

      Slide the terrarium screen cover on top of the terrarium.