I need a new cage solution for my parakeet

[lovetopaint]

I am the proud owner of a single parakeet. I want him to have a larger cage so he can stretch his wings a bit, and maybe eventually get him a friend.
I am not exactly experienced, so I am hoping that someone would be nice enough to help me on this--
First: What CHEAP material do you recommend for a cage? I was thinking part plexiglass (with LOTS and LOTS of holes drilled in it so he can climb/breathe and so that I can attach perches easily) and part untreated wood? I also have a metal grille that came with his old cage that I would use for the door. I don't want it to be much taller than two feet, because then he'll waste the bottom part of his aviary, but I do want to be pretty wide/long.

Does anyone have any pictures of their DIY aviaries or recommendations they could share? I want him to be happy, and yet don't want to spend more than $50.

Thank you all so much! I really appreciate it!

 

[Rosa moschata]

I don't recommend plexiglass as a cage material for budgies -- even with holes drilled, it won't be nearly as easy for your budgie to climb as wire. Also, don't use any wood to build the frame -- you'll never be able to get it as clean as something which is non-porous. I've made simple large cages myself using welded wire mesh, but I am not sure if you can do it for under $50. It might be a better idea to simply save a little longer and buy a flight cage, which you can find for about $100 - $200 brand new.

 

[lovetopaint]

Thank you! I did consider welded wire mesh, but after reading so much about zinc poisoning, I was worried that it would be hard to find that type of wire.

 

[Rosa moschata]

You can find coated wire, but again, the materials will probably bring the total cost to over $50 to make the cage. Google "pvc coated wire mesh" to find where you can buy it.

 

[lovetopaint]

That looks perfect, thank you!

However....I found some shelving that is not coated with a poisonous material that miiiiiight work instead as it is cheaper. I finally found some with 1/2 inch bars. If you search 48 X 16" TightMesh™ Shelf at menards, it should come up. If anyone would be so nice as to tell me if that is a totally dumb idea or not, I would be so grateful!
But now comes the flooring problem.
I initially wanted a dirt floor with large pebbles on top. That way I could have some nontoxic plants inside for my parakeet to play on. He'd love that! However, I am worried about mites/bugs/whatever is in dirt. Is that a concern? This is a 100% indoor aviary, by the way.
But would a large piece of cardboard over whatever flooring I use work better? Or even a bunch of newspaper? I could still put potted plants in there, right?

Any opinions?
Thanks

 

[Poultrybonkers]

I would advoid any plexiglass as it can grow bacteria. Or so ive heard my cages are made from cage wire I got from tractor supplys and zip ties. Been working for almost two years. Cost about 20 for a roll that make an avairy big enough for my 14 birds i made two the other is for mice. I used both for birds but now ones for mice.

 

[Rosa moschata]

Please tell me you bring them inside for Winter.....

 

[lovetopaint]

Thank you both for your help. I found a solution and both the cage and stand combined were under $35!! I could not be more happy. It is 4 feet long, 2 feet wide and 20 inches tall. My parakeet LOVES it so much!
I did end up using the metal shelving--SUPER easy to work with. I definitely would do it again. It probably took about an hour and a half to two hours to build.