A well-built tortoise house should offer enough space, solid support, and safe airflow for daily movement and rest. Many commercial enclosures fall short once a tortoise begins to grow, making a DIY build a practical alternative. This guide focuses on constructing a wooden tortoise house using clear measurements and a structured build process, ensuring the enclosure is functional, sturdy, and suitable for indoor use.
Size of the Tortoise House
- Length: 5 feet (60 inches)
- Width: 2.5 feet (30 inches)
- Style: Open-top wooden tortoise table with hinged wire lid
Tools & Materials Required
- Measuring tape
- Saw (or wood cutting service at store)
- Drill
- Screwdriver / drill bits
- Staple gun
Wood
- 1×12 × 10 ft board (for long side walls)
- 1×12 × 6 ft board (for short end walls)
- 1/2-inch plywood (base)
- 1×4 × 6 ft board (lid hinge support)
- 2×3 boards (bottom reinforcement)
Hardware
- Wood screws (two sizes)
- Corner braces (for wall joints)
- 3 hinges (3-inch) for lid
- Lid support hinges
- 2-ft wide chicken wire
- Staples (for chicken wire)
Step-by-Step: How to Build the Tortoise House
The following steps break down the entire tortoise house build in the exact order it is constructed. Each stage explains what to measure, cut, and assemble so the enclosure comes together correctly without guesswork. Follow the steps carefully to ensure the tortoise house is stable, well-supported, and ready for finishing.
Step 1: Prepare and Mark the Wood
Begin by laying all wooden boards on a flat surface where measurements can be marked clearly. Accurate marking at this stage ensures the enclosure remains square and stable once assembled.
- Measure 5-foot lengths on the 1×12 × 10 ft board for the long sides
- Measure 29 3/4 inches on the 1×12 × 6 ft board for the short ends
- Use a pencil and straight edge to draw clear cut lines
Tip: Double-check every measurement before cutting. Small errors at this stage can cause alignment issues later during assembly.
Step 2: Cut the Side Panels
Using a saw (or store cutting service), cut the marked 10-ft board into two equal 5-ft panels.
- These panels will form the left and right walls of the tortoise house
- Ensure both pieces are exactly the same length so the frame remains level
After cutting, lightly sand the edges to remove splinters and rough spots.
Step 3: Cut the End Panels
Next, cut the 6-ft board into two panels measuring 29 3/4 inches each.
- These pieces will form the front and back walls
- The slightly shorter length allows the end panels to fit correctly between the side walls
Check that both end panels are identical before moving on.
Step 4: Assemble the Main Frame
Arrange the wooden panels into a rectangular shape.
- Place the two 5-ft panels parallel to each other
- Position the 29 3/4-inch panels between them at both ends
- Pre-drill holes at each corner to prevent the wood from splitting
- Secure all corners using corner braces and wood screws
Once assembled, you should have a sturdy rectangular frame that forms the main body of the tortoise house.
Step 5: Attach the Plywood Base
Turn the assembled frame upside down so the bottom is facing up.
- Place the 1/2-inch plywood beneath the frame
- Align the plywood evenly with the outer edges
- Screw the plywood into the frame at regular intervals
This creates a solid floor that supports bedding, décor, and the tortoise’s weight.
Step 6: Add Bottom Support
Because the enclosure is long, additional support is required to prevent the base from bowing over time.
- Attach 2×3 boards lengthwise under the plywood
- Space them evenly across the bottom
- Secure them firmly with screws
Note: These supports are essential for long-term durability, especially once substrate and furnishings are added.
Step 7: Build the Lid Support Frame
Install the 1×4 board along the back edge of the enclosure.
- This board serves as the hinge mounting point
- It also supports the opening lid structure
To strengthen the lid, add small corner brace pieces at stress points so the frame remains rigid during opening and closing.
Step 8: Attach Hinges to the Lid
Secure the lid to the enclosure using three hinges.
- Position the hinges evenly along the back edge
- Three hinges are used because the lid is long and needs added support
- Optional lid-support hinges can be installed to prevent sudden slamming
Test the lid to ensure it opens smoothly and stays aligned.
Step 9: Install Chicken Wire on the Lid
Lay 2-ft wide chicken wire underneath the lid frame
- Pull the wire tight so it sits flat
- Staple it securely around the entire frame using a staple gun
- Use rolled-edge wire to reduce the risk of sharp points
Ensure the wire does not flex or lift, as it provides ventilation and safety.
Step 10: Create the Sleeping Hide Section
Designate a quiet resting area within the enclosure.
- Leave a solid wooden section measuring 30 inches × 10 inches
- This section acts as a dark sleeping hide
- Install a small hinged door for easy access and cleaning
This hide mimics commercial tortoise shelters and gives the tortoise a secure resting space.
Step 11: Safety Inspection
Before finishing the enclosure, conduct a thorough safety check.
- Inspect all chicken wire edges
- Press down any raised staples
- Tighten loose screws and brackets
- Sand rough wood surfaces
This step ensures the enclosure is safe for both the tortoise and the handler.
Step 12: Paint the Exterior Only
- Paint only the outside
- Use non-toxic, animal-safe paint
- Do not paint the interior
- Allow paint to dry completely before use
Building a Tortoise House using accurate measurements and a step-by-step approach results in a strong and reliable enclosure that meets a tortoise’s basic space and safety needs. With proper cutting, secure assembly, and careful finishing, this DIY tortoise house provides a long-lasting indoor habitat that can comfortably support a growing tortoise far better than most pre-made options.
FAQs
1. Is bottom support really necessary for a tortoise house?
Yes. For longer enclosures, bottom support using 2×3 boards is essential. Without it, the base can bow over time due to the weight of substrate, hides, and daily movement.
2. What wood type is best for building a tortoise house?
Untreated pine or similar softwood is commonly used for indoor tortoise houses. It is easy to cut, lightweight, and affordable. Avoid pressure-treated wood, as it may contain chemicals. Smooth, untreated wood is safer for indoor use.
3. How often should the enclosure be checked after assembly?
Inspect the enclosure regularly, especially during the first few weeks. Look for loose screws, shifting supports, or raised staples. Early checks help catch small issues before they worsen. Routine inspections keep the enclosure safe.