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what is a good REPTILE SAFE wood sealer n/p
XtremeXteriors
Dec 25, 2005 05:49 PM
Replies (4)
TomChambers
Dec 25, 2005 06:50 PM
I used to just keep the lids on the tubs, but now I use ¾” hardwood laminate ply (more expensive but I like the looks).
I just polyurethane it, I’m over 5 on my oldest rack like this, and it shows no signs of detrimental effect yet (to snakes or wood).
TomChambers
jyohe
Dec 25, 2005 08:02 PM
ask for "child safe or food safe" sealer.I think they make a polyeurothane that is food grade.......
I saw it on TV once....I have never actually looked for it..
I have raxx that are just old fashioned poly coated....13 years old raxx.......
.......I'd try for the food grade stuff........just ask the paint store or home depot guys......if they don't know keep asking till they do......
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..................gottaLuvIt!!
ginebig
Dec 25, 2005 08:11 PM
No matter what you use, I think the most important thing is to let it air out(gas off)a sufficient amount of time so that the reptiles won't be over come by fumes.
Quig
chris_harper2
Dec 29, 2005 11:03 AM
Any finish is safe once it offgass' completely, but that can very dramatically among products.
A lot of people use oil-based polyurethane but apply each layer too thick and/or too soon and end up in a situation where the product can offgas for months if not years.
Really, it depends on your application and what results you are looking for. Do you want the finish to be clear, or have that slight amber color that many finishes have? Or do you want a solid color?
Regarding durability, do you want a apply it and forget it finish or do you mind touching up the finish every couple of years?
There are so many tradeoffs among different types of finishes that it can make your head spin.
Don't get too wrapped up in the "safe" designation. There are a variety of characteristics that allow a product to market itself as a "safe" or "environmentally friendly". A lot of it is a bunch of hype.
The best example of this is volatile organic compound percentage. Some products are diluted to the point that VOC's are reduced to a safe level. But then you have to apply extra coats for the same degree of protection and you actually end up using the same amount or more of VOC's.
