Yes, the plans if I remember were from the web. I think Matt at Blue Apple Herps had posted them, if I remember correctly. I modified it a little by using plywood and keeping my tops on. Being up in Canada I would think sides would come in handy holding in some heat. The large rack has a back, the smaller one has a partial back. I am about to re-do the heat on the large one to back heat. The room they stay in stays in the mid 70's(72-76), so back heat should give them a comfortable hot spot in the rear corner of the tub.