IKEA Fabrikor Vivarium Hack?

[Joeturbo26]

Hello all!

I've been looking into different options to build an enclosure with specific dimensions. I am trying to align it to fit on along a wall in an extra bedroom I have. The ideal dimensions I need are 60" long by 36" high by 18-24" deep. Finding a prefabricated enclosure this size is tough.

I came across this glass cabinet from ikea that measures 59" long x22.5" high if it laying on its side—by far the closest I've seen to my measurements. I like the industrial look a lot. Also it appears as though if I build it without the base I can position it flush against the wall on the left side—which would allow the "door" to swing down. I also like that it comes pre drilled and wired for lighting. This would allow me to easily install fog/fan/lighting.

It would be laying on a base so I don't think it's too concerning how much weight is on the glass, although I could reinforce it I am sure.

All in all 200 bucks I feel is exponentially cheaper than anything I could custom build or buy prefabricated.

You all are the experts way beyond me, I'd love to hear your advice/opinions.

Here are some photos of the cabinet and one I cropped to show how it will lay. I'd get it in the grey color.

[Subrosa]

What about ventilation? I can't tell what the top and bottom ( left and right ends for your purposes) are made of, and what type of glass is used. If those panels are not glass, no problem. Even if they are glass, as long as the glass used isn't tempered, drilling holes is no big deal. If however the glass is tempered, I would consider the unit unsuitable.

[PaphMadMan]

I'm not sure why there would be any concern about ventilation. It can't be an air-tight seal and installing a fan by pre-drilled holes, as mentioned, takes care of the need for air circulation.

Assuming the materials exposed to the moist interior are appropriate for that or can be given a moisture resistant coating/treatment of some kind, I see no real problems. Personally, I would put the lighting outside the glass for several reasons - more space inside, better control of heat, no need for lighting to be moisture resistant.

I like this idea enough I may consider it myself.

[Subrosa]

Without knowing the size and number of holes I wouldn't be so certain. Being drilled for lighting could mean a single hole large enough to get a plug through.

[harpspiel]

I've always loved the look of the Fabrikor, but never had an excuse to own it! I may have to steal this idea as well, it's as good a reason as any to set up a second case...anyway I'm sure you've considered this but keep in mind that the 60" height most likely includes the legs.

As far as glass/lighting goes, you probably only need to drill holes in the "top" if at all. You should be able to with a high quality diamond bit, however I shattered the bottom of my 40g tank while trying to drill a drainage hole - so I just bought some plexiglass and cut it to size. I wouldn't worry too much about it.

[Joeturbo26]

Originally Posted by harpspiel

I've always loved the look of the Fabrikor, but never had an excuse to own it! I may have to steal this idea as well, it's as good a reason as any to set up a second case...anyway I'm sure you've considered this but keep in mind that the 60" height most likely includes the legs.



As far as glass/lighting goes, you probably only need to drill holes in the "top" if at all. You should be able to with a high quality diamond bit, however I shattered the bottom of my 40g tank while trying to drill a drainage hole - so I just bought some plexiglass and cut it to size. I wouldn't worry too much about it.

Ok now I officially feel stupid! You're absolutely right. It's probably 60 with the legs and I didn't even think about that!

Ummmm back to the drawing board LOL.

[PaphMadMan]

Originally Posted by Subrosa

Without knowing the size and number of holes I wouldn't be so certain. Being drilled for lighting could mean a single hole large enough to get a plug through.

And you can just as easily put a plug for a fan through. It is very common to grow orchids in a terrarium environment, and there are very few that won't be perfectly happy in a there in the high humidity with good air movement from a fan.

[Subrosa]

Air movement is not ventilation.

[Joseia]

Originally Posted by Subrosa

Air movement is not ventilation.

Agree. I would want some ventilation to bring in fresh air. When I built my first terrarium for orchids, I had a PC fan inside to move air inside the tank, but did not think about ventilation. It did not turn out well. The biggest problem without ventilation for me was that the temps inside the tank got way too hot under the lights. Now I use various Exo Terra terrariums with plenty of ventilation.

[Joeturbo26]

I wish exo terra made one in the dimensions I am looking for.