Reptile & Amphibian Forums

What is a good sealer to use on wood? I would say non-toxic but I think it is all toxic until it dries. The application I would be applying it to is going to be indoors and would not really be exposed to water unless there is overspraying from misting. The animals could possibly access some of the wood but not normally. I would be looking to apply the sealer with a brush and not a spray can if possible.

Thanks in advance for the replies!

Severa

I think I need a bit more information. What is the exact application of the wood in question? Is it for a cage? Is it for a perch or cage decoration? Do you need something clear or something colored?
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Currently keeping a small collection of various Gonyosoma. Both G. janseni and G. oxycephala.

I am looking for something clear. Its not really meant to be an "exhibit" piece but more functional. I really do think I need to seal it though. When you look at the pic, I am sure you will think "Why the hell wasn't it done prior to assembly?" Well it is what it is now and I am rather certain that I can go back with out it being too much of a pain and seal it. Trust me, I wish I didn't have to but I know I do.

Thanks,
Severa

From the looks of it, the animals housed in the clear tubs will not be directly exposed to any of the wood? They will only be exposed to the screen?

Either way, you have a lot of choices. Shellac, waterborne polyurethane or even an oil-based urethane or varnish would work.

Waterborne polyurethane would probably be the safest/easiest, albeit more expensive than some of the other choices.

I would also consider paint with some gloss. The advantage of paint would be that you would immediately see when the finish was wearing off. That is not alway so easy with clear finishes.

But if you really want clear that's fine too.
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Currently keeping a small collection of various Gonyosoma. Both G. janseni and G. oxycephala.

Thanks for the reply Chris. You are right, they do not have direct contact with the wood as the screen is between them and the wood. I don't think the gecko hatchlings would be bothered by this non-treated ply but I would rater seal it to be safe. I will look into your recommendations.
Thanks again,
Severa

I would mask off the screen and just paint it!

Do you really enjoy the look of Pine? Otherwise a good quality interior paint semi-gloss or gloss will coat the wood just fine. And since the wood isn't subject to all that much moisture there isn't a big problem.

My 1.5 cents, hey Diesel went up again! So that would be 9 cents over last week.....
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Jeremy

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

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