Zen Habitats Screen Top Melted Plastic

[zarbidac]

Hi there, I’ll try to attach pictures, but I made a stupid mistake and accidentally placed my heat lamp on top of my plastic humidity shield on my zen habitats enclosure. Any idea what I should do? Can anything be done, or is the screen gone for good? The way they are constructed is also very difficult to remove the screen top, but I will still try.

[zarbidac]

Just an update that I think I've resolved this, though please let me know if this is just the most awful idea you've ever seen.

I was able to cut through the screen top and remove the humidity shield from the top that way. I then places some cushions (in the form of cotton pads) and taped them to the inside to make sure he doesn't poke himself on the wires. I don't think he will escape or get through it or anything since I've never known him to be able to climb up to the ceiling in any way. I will also not be putting the lamp heat that area to ensure it doesn't catch on fire.

Again, please let me know if this is a dumb idea. Luckily he's been brumating lately so he's been sleeping through all of this.

[kayla990]

Unlucky! Accidents happen to us all, so don't worry

Can't think of many issues that would come from the replacement piece; providing the tape doesn't let go. Alternatively, you could try using wire mesh (like chicken mesh) as a replacement. In theory - you could cut out a square and place it on top; and bend or weave the wires into the previous mesh.

Also - since the current mesh is plastic, any sharp edges can be melted (if you happen to have a hot-glue gun around!).

[splashy07]

I bought a roll of screen to make a top for my holding tub. Screen can be easily cut and sew it into place with fine fishing line. Of course it's no longer an area that can hold a lamp. Eventually the tape will fail, and this would be a more permanent solution.

[zarbidac]

Great advice, thanks for your help both of you!