Upper Levels Supporting a wide upper level

[ojars]

We wanted to change the layout of the upper level from two endcaps the width of the 2x5 grid cage to a single run the length of the cage.

The problem to solve is to support the hanging edge of the upper level.

I had thought to run a support from end to end through one square of the grids using plastic plumbing pipe but found it to be too flexible. Metal piping in the right size is rather expensive.

Ended up using a wooden rail of a diameter just under 1-1/2 inch true that just fills one grid square, as shown in the picture. The wooden rail in that diameter has good stiffness over the length required for the application.

Here is the result -- notice the wooden rail supporting the hanging edge of the 1x5 grid upper level.

Turned out nicely -- cage is less awkward to clean, support is solid, critters are easier to catch!

 

[Catahoula]

I have a 3x5 and have been envisioning changing their loft to be like yours.

I'm convinced it will make it easier to clean and catch piggies, but my other half isn't as convinced. Glad you posted this. I'm going to show it to him and see if I get my way now. :shhh:

 

[pinky]

We wanted to change the layout of the upper level from two endcaps the width of the 2x5 grid cage to a single run the length of the cage.

The problem to solve is to support the hanging edge of the upper level.

I had thought to run a support from end to end through one square of the grids using plastic plumbing pipe but found it to be too flexible. Metal piping in the right size is rather expensive.

Ended up using a wooden rail of a diameter just under 1-1/2 inch true that just fills one grid square, as shown in the picture. The wooden rail in that diameter has good stiffness over the length required for the application.

Here is the result -- notice the wooden rail supporting the hanging edge of the 1x5 grid upper level.

Turned out nicely -- cage is less awkward to clean, support is solid, critters are easier to catch!

How do the guinea pigs get from the first to second levels? Do you have two ramps?

 

[ojars]

Right -- we have two ramps, which can be seen atop the cage in the picture.

This way they can do some circuit training!