Okay im done building and im going to stain the outside, and make a fake rock wall as the background and paint the sides inside. The stain on the outside wont effect the snakes on the inside right?



Typically no, however any stain left exposed willnot fair very well. I recommend useing a polyurathane or some other finish over a stain application in extend the life of the wood. I myself use the same on the outside and on the inside of the enclosure saves on product purchases.



so then i just need to know what kind of paint i can use. no lead based right?



On the inside any latex paint specifically designed for kitchen and bath will be more than durable for most species, the gloss is up to you. I hear Sherwin Williams makes a good product many have had success with in cages. I also doubt you will find any Lead based paints, unless your diggin' through grandpa's attic.



and water proofing it after i paint, how do i do this?



Its self incopasing the paint is the waterproofer, unless you are refering to caulk. If thats the case you should pre primer and caulk the seams before you paint. Defenetly get a paintable latex caulk.



Hope that helps a little, I'm not the resident expert on finishes.
-----
Jeremy



"I am become death, the destroyer of worlds" July 16, 1945 Robert Oppenheimer



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