All of my screen tops are covered, and I don't use lights. I also am not a believer in them, lol. I've always used UTHs, and covered the tops. My enclosures all have carpet in the bottom, rather than wood or sani chips, and I have several extra pieces cut out for each tank, so cleaning is quick and easy. I don't use the thermostats that go on the sides of the tank - I have a temp gun, and use that, since they are so much more accurate.
No worries about sounding preachy - you sound like me talking to people I know that are just getting started with reptiles, lol.
