Health ConcernsBPA has been found to be an endocrine disruptor. How to make fake rocks background for reptiles terrarium: If you wonder how to build fake rocky wall (faux rock) background and stones for your terrarium, vivarium, paludarium or aquarium tank, watch two videos below. Polyurethane takes much longer to cure (several weeks) but it by far a more durable finish. I have the ability to handle small enclosures or large. The acrylic paint is fine and safe for you reptile. Also, it repels insects. Varnish , a combination of resin, solvent, and drying oil, gives a hard-shell finish that resists scratches without yellowing. Rats are rodents that need to chew on things regularly to keep their teeth trimmed and healthy (because their teeth grow continuously throughout their life). I had a water dragon cage made of melamine, and I put 5 coats of polyurethane on the inside, and it even stood up to the misting pump for over a year with zero swelling or warping. Plastic #7 can be a little tricky as it stands for “Other” which may or may not contain BPA. Patricia is a freelance writer who has published articles about birds online and in print for over a decade. Aquarium-safe paint for outside your aquarium. Like their wild counterparts, captive reptiles readily use branches, logs and bark sections for climbing and hiding. Being a family company, we believe that people are willing to pay more for a quality product when it comes to their pets health. I've been decorating my leopard geckos cages with 3d prints for years. Dimensions - From 8" L x 5" W to 26" L x 17.5" W Materials - Polyurea & Polyurethane Country of Origin - USA; Product Description. It may not be in your home that your dog … Thoughts? Now that I have covered paint that is suitable for inside your aquarium, let’s take a closer look at what you can use on the outside. Safe — for everyone, including the chemically sensitive; learn how to test a non-toxic product for tolerance Eco-friendly — ultra low VOC Alert: If using this product to seal in off-gassing of toxic chemicals, please call us at 800-405-0222 before using. I'm using 1/2 inch birch plywood for anyone who cares. The best & cheapest varnish/sealant is polyurethane varnish. We recommend that you connect wire by soldering. Flex~seal is basically the same as sealants available in Walmart's plumbing section for half the price. If you have more money than time, then always buy something sold for aquaria and certified to be safe. Written by. These reptiles need naturalistic environments that … Where is Polystyrene found?Polystyrene is widely used in packaging materials and insulation. Click to see full answer Also asked, what paint is safe for bearded dragons? While it does not contain BPA nor BHT, it has some other option really interesting to us where this plastic does not break and create sharp edges. Last edited: Dec 28, 2018. I would recommend using ceramics for a water dish. RELATED: [Is Polyurethane Safe? Hope this helps a little. However, for reptiles, it is not a good idea, especially for lizards. We understand that this affects our manufacturing cost but being a family company, we believe that people are willing to pay more for a quality product when it comes to their pets health. Plastic #4 – Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is a thermoplastic made from petroleum. Use any safe waterproofing that does not have heavy metal and low volatile organic compounds. Is Gorilla Glue safe for pets? Obviously the most important thing is that it be safe for use with aquatic turtles so they won't get poisoned by some weird chemical. This is what aquarium ornaments are coated in once painted. Aside from that, polyurethane foam is usually, if not always, "closed cell" which means there are not open passages through it so it would not be useful for any kind of filtering. Cure time with acrylic is 2-3 weeks but you can test it by doing the fingernail test. What is PC, and What is it Used For? Health ConcernsAccording to the Foundation for Achievements in Science and Education fact sheet, long term exposure to small quantities of styrene can cause neurotoxic (fatigue, nervousness, difficulty sleeping), hematological (low platelet and hemoglobin values), cytogenetic (chromosomal and lymphatic abnormalities), and carcinogenic effects. Sets rock solid too. Preparation is essentially cleaning and sterilizing the wood so it is safe for your reptile to use. Don't know if matt or glossy though. I use at least 3 coats of the stuff. It is flexible and tough but breakable. In an inconspicuous area, press your fingernail into the paint. HDPE is hard, opaque and can withstand somewhat high temperatures. Sika have a product called Sikaflex 11 FC polyurethane Sealer, this is used in the food processing Industry and does not contain biocides. I went with the polyurethane because it is supposed to be more durable than the polycrylic. The large water bowl is not only realistic, its big enough for reptiles to soak in as well. Wood is a popular and natural choice for rat owners to provide to their pets but not all types of wood are safe. The little recycle symbol (three arrows formed into a triangle with a number in the center) helps recycle centers to identify resin plastics of like kind. Read more about the harm of BPA here. The product, under any name is designed to seal liquids out. Paint wise, acrylic paint is usually a good choice then varnished with non toxic poly varnish.. Keep your pet safe and have fun enjoying this fascinating world of intriguing pets! Product Details. This is what aquarium ornaments are coated in once painted. Making basking spots and caves for my beardie. Minwax water-based polyurethane (and polycrylic) can be used over their oil-based wood stain. About Reptile Cages The cage or enclosure to house your pet will be determined by the size of the reptile and its environmental needs. Cage furniture should be constructed of non-porous material like plastic, metal, glazed ceramic or polyurethane sealed wood, so it can be disinfected. Not designed to hold, secure ~ especially with animals. This section covers paint that is not going to be submerged under water, such as the glass, trim or even the stand that your aquarium rests on.. How to build enclosures for reptiles - custom snake cages - arboreal snake cages - snake keeping cage info - homemade reptile cages) Others say it is fine, I assume it would be safest if there is in fact any issue when sealed with something like Crommelin pond sealer or CFP Timber floor polyurethane? or even room sized habitats. Through the use of phthalates, a plasticizer, it can be made softer and more flexible. While they are not dangerous for pets health, rubbers have a big downside in which they are not recyclable. Plastic #5 – Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic polymer. Then, they receive 2 coats of a water based clear coat. With water-based polyurethane, cleanup is a snap with soap and water. If you have ever wondered how to seal the interior of a wood reptile enclosure then this video is definitely for you!!! An important thing to know when it comes to find the right product for them. However, I'd wait until you smell absolutely nothing in the cage and then turn on … Polyurethane takes much longer to cure (several weeks) but it by far a more durable finish. Sometimes I paint them, sometimes I don't, but I always seal them with polyurethane and let them set for at least 24 hours before I drop them into the environment. Housing for large reptiles can be accomplished with various types of cages. Those had to be washed heavily because of beardie gifts . ?. I have used it on melamine before with GREAT results. We always use number 5 or polypropylene for 2 specific reasons. It is ultra-thin at .012" thick and is sealed in durable & flexible polyurethane. The increased temperature will release the contaminants which melts at a lower temperature. The Facts and 5 Alternatives to Consider] Credit. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). # Some of the most dangerous versions of … Plastic #6 – Polystyrene (PS) is a petroleum-based plastic. Which is to say, the best containers to safely store foods are the best to use for your aquarium maintenance needs. You just have to make sure the oil stain is 11% cured before applying the polyurethane. How to build enclosures for reptiles - custom snake cages - arboreal snake cages - snake keeping cage info - homemade reptile cages) Others say it is fine, I assume it would be safest if there is in fact any issue when sealed with something like Crommelin pond sealer or CFP Timber floor polyurethane? I test thermostats to make sure they are working correctly, double check temps under heat lamps, and make sure the enclosure itself is safe and secure. All décor is … Just remember to let Polycrylic or water based (oil modified) polyurethane cure for … For how impressive it looks, it actually requires very little in the way of tools or skills – just a willingness to learn new things as you work with acryclic. The spray dekor material is also polyurethane based hence why it's used in aquarium/reptile background production. Use Paint Safe Enough for a Bird Paint Safety for Your Pets and Sensitive Loved Ones. Polycarbonate is derived from BPA. Any oil-based stain will be toxic to your reptiles.Even water-based stains can be deadly if not properly sealed. If a dog bites it, it will be perforated but will not break. What safe materials can i use to make fake backgrounds??? It is commonly used to label Polycarbonate (PC). Enjoy!! You can buy wood from pet stores that's suited for pet habitats and ready to use, or you can collect wood for a terrarium yourself. The letters PC may be present with the recycling symbol, which would indicate that the product is made with polycarbonate. If at all possible I'd like it to be the kind that adds a stain with the seal. Its main ingredient is Diphenylmethane Diisocyanate which is what polyurethane is made from. It is applied as a spray, for ease of reaching all parts of non-uniform surfaces to which it is typically applied. Plastic items are done through a process called injection moulding. Choose products made with the #1, #2, #4, or #5 recycling codes. Just covered the grout models in water based paint and 7-8 coats of Polycrylic. With 7 sizes to choose from, you will be sure to find the perfect bowl for any habitat size in these great designs from Universal Rocks. Patricia Sund. Here is a quick guide to select safe plastics for your pets. Is Polyurethane Safe? ok i am building a fake rock enclosure for my water dragon and have been doing alot of e-mailing about epoxy resins for sealing the whole thing and making it water and weather proof. Thoughts? If at all possible I'd like it to be the kind that adds a stain with the seal. Small reptiles don’t get as much love in most DIY plans, but this tiny acrylic enclosure from Instructables more than makes up for a lack of options. Learn more about . The reason it is not good for your reptile is that it can cause skin lesions or even respiratory health problems for your reptile. Polyurethane comes in many shapes and forms. Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane Lumber-Seal TriCoPolymer VOC Free, Non-Toxic Wood Sealer Agra life has several types of wood sealer and is widely available. Each of our backgrounds are crafted by hand, one by one. Polypropylene is not only safer but it’s also less at risk of containing other contaminants which can be harmful to dogs and cats. It sounds like you were very careful in your selections and took all the precautions needed. This is a polyurethane that is rated as child-safe, so it's easy to assume that it's pet-safe as well. The best & cheapest varnish/sealant is polyurethane varnish. I used maker-series ABS, and raptor series PLA from maker-geeks. The 2 x varnishes mentioned are polyurethane. Health ConcernsStudies have found levels of antimony (a toxic chemical) leaching from water bottles that have been placed in heat for prolonged times. Reactions: Jenn, Zanzibar7171, sdellin and 5 others. i have been e-mailing resin companies etc by the hundreds because of the intricate "mountain" with running river etc i have have been building for my water dragom lol . Safe sealers Any Urethane is good and water proof once dry. Join Date 07-16-2012 Location Cypress, TX USA Posts 2,650 Thanks 636 Thanked 901 Times in 699 Posts (Wood for reptile tanks is not the same as wood for aquariums) 2) Some wet wood may sink, but you certainly couldn’t coat it with anything when it’s wet. All reptiles need places to hide, and having a "safe zone" reduces stress and prevents cage pacing. You have to wire this product yourself and will need to supply the wire and plug. If you prefer text, feel free to scroll down below the videos to read text tutorials, but waterfalls parts are just in the videos. Each reptile cage comes standard with your choice of one of our four colors of water based stains (safe for pets) or can have a custom stain applied to match your decor. Health ConcernsPVC is one of the toxic plastics that should be avoided. It can be found translucent or opaque. The first step is to clean off all of the surface level dirt. Obviously the most important thing is that it be safe for use with aquatic turtles so they won't get poisoned by some weird chemical. 1) Most dry wood will float, making it unsuitable for an aquarium. Spread word about the dangers that Gorilla Glue® and other isocyanate polyurethane adhesives pose to pets. The polycrylic sealer doesn't hold up as well to a small amount of water from misting (had to redo it after 6mo) and it is not UV stable so the UV lights can discolor the wood/stain. If you are opting for a DIY wooden cage for your bearded dragons, once you finish making it, use a safe wood, coat with polyurethane and let it dry for several days to ensure any chance of toxicity. There is a solution in the form of a two-component, semi-rigid, 100% solids, polyurethane polyurea hard coating, especially for EPS foams. Durable, Pet Safe Reptile Cage Finishes. Thanks, Peter. Step 1 – Cleaning and preparing the wood. All materials I use, are checked to make sure they are non toxic and pet safe. Polyurethane is also very flexible and it lasts a long time. Then people can see that polyurethane varnishes are fine, and if they want to know more, they can see that people have used brand xxx and brand yyy etc! We use cookies to improve your experience on this website and so that ads you see online can be tailored to your online browsing interests. Clay that has been fired then glazed and fired again would be completely sterile and non-toxic. Mine has just finished curing. ... Should I be using polyurethane, epoxy, deck sealer something else? SANI-TRED's non-toxic animal safe waterproof sealant products have been used for animal kennel flooring and habitats for over 25 years around the world. I've been decorating my leopard geckos cages with 3d prints for years. What I'll do is rearrange the list a bit so things are sub-grouped, so for example all polyurethane varnishes are together. Every material I use, I would (And Do) use in my own pet’s enclosures. Your pet’s safety is my number one concern! Please note The materials listed below are presumed to be safe, but use of the materials are entirely the responsibility of the user. Since I've had bad luck with paint I've been using polyurethane (Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane -oil based) and have had no problems. Durable, Pet Safe Finish. Nothing is more disturbing than seeing large pythons, boas, or iguanas in tiny barren tanks with inappropriate things to hang or climb on. Depending on the plastic used, the temperature for moulding will be different. If you can blow through it, it's "open cell". dimzel Super Moderator. This is why it’s dangerous when heated or throned in the dishwasher. Flex Watt Heat Tape is a widely popular & economical heat source in the reptile industry. Sometimes I paint them, sometimes I don't, but I always seal them with polyurethane and let them set for at least 24 hours before I drop them into the environment. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. NOTE: microwavable/dishwasher safe only means that the plastic will not warp when heated. I'm pretty fussy when it comes to anything that could potentially harm tank inhabitants, and so will always go with brands/materials that have been used before, rather than those that "should" be safe. Plastic #3 – Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a thermoplastic polymer. The 3 ledges attach to each side to make a complete system for your pet to climb and bask on. Correspondingly, is acrylic paint safe for reptiles? I'm guessing other people are the same. When the cavity is filled, the mould is then opened to release the product which is ejected from the cavity. Its versatility makes it suitable for a plethora of applications because it can successfully substitute many materials that are either expensive or scarce. We feel reassured that we can supply the best quality to customers and their pets. this is a process where plastic melted and injected in a cavity. The polycrylic sealer doesn't hold up as well to a small amount of water from misting (had to redo it after 6mo) and it is not UV stable so the UV lights can discolor the wood/stain. One of the things I want to do is create a list of brands as well as kinds of materials. Unfortunately, polyurethane is less than great for your health. I used maker-series ABS, and raptor series PLA from maker-geeks. Can I just make a water dish and have that be safe for my pet? When working with Gorilla Glue®, don't allow your pets to be around you or your materials. Provide enough hiding places so that each animal has his own place to hide. Eden Enclosures manufactures custom, exotic reptile, amphibian, and insect enclosures. PETE plastic should not be reused because cleaning detergents and high temperatures can cause chemicals to leach out of the plastic. Rock/Background Which materials are safe? Plastic #1 is only intended for one time use. Health ConcernsMost PP are microwavable safe and dishwasher safe. This list serves only as a list of what others have found works, and appears to be safe, and the thread creator and contributors accept no responsibility for illness or fatalities resulting from the use of any materials listed below. Read about the harm of phthalates here.PVC can also be found in car interiors and vinyl flooring, resulting in the release of toxic chemicals into the air. 3) Wood collected from the beach or forest may contain parasites and diseases that can harm your fish. Should I be using polyurethane, epoxy, deck sealer something else? Plastic #1 – PET or PETE stands for polyethylene terephthalate, a plastic resin and a form of polyester. Where most of our competitors use a number 7 plastic, we feel that the quality of our pet products sets us apart and to be honest, this lets us sleep better at night knowing that our customers pets are safe and will stay healthy. According to the Environmental Protection Agency , this toxic material can cause asthma, skin irritation, eye sensitivity, lung damage, as well as other and more severe breathing problems. this is a process where plastic melted and injected in a cavity. A plastic that is aquarium safe will also be food safe. We’ve been working with that material for a decade and find that it is by far the safest material on the market presently for feeding your pet. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies. It does not imply that it is a healthy practice. Eden is a small family owned and operated business based out of Mid-Michigan. Give the wood a good bang just to get rid of any of the dirt that may be collected on it. It can either be hard or used in the form of styrofoam. Plastic #2 – High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum. Polycarbonate (PC) plastics are a naturally transparent amorphous thermoplastic.Although they are made commercially available in a variety of colors (perhaps translucent and perhaps not), the raw material allows for the internal transmission of light nearly in … For that reason, we do not approuve the use for environmental reasons. They can eat it and get very sick. Although PETE does not contain BPA or Phthalates, it’s always best to make sure that your water bottles are not temperature abused. Thanks, Peter. Likewise, is wood stain safe for reptiles? May 19, 2015 - How to Make a Fake Tree Branch for Your Reptile: Large climbing reptiles require a suitable habitat. Plastic items are done through a process called injection moulding. Hope this video helps. Aye, thanks for pointing that out. There are 2 optional artificial plants that are super realistic and safe for your pets too. Safe for little kids that may decide to drink or eat so surely must be safe for animals?! Protect the little creatures from coming in contact with the Sikaflex 11FC in its un cured state , once cured all is OK. The Fake rock techniques I use don't hold up to water being on it 24/7 -365 in a lizard cage, unless you use aquarium grade silicone. Reptile safe wood sealant? It is strong, tough, has a high resistance to heat and acts as a barrier to moisture. If the melting temperature is too high, some manufactures will add other materials such as BPA and BHT which have a lower melting point. Sets rock solid too. Safe for bearded dragons wild counterparts, captive reptiles readily use branches, logs and bark sections for and! The responsibility of the materials are entirely the responsibility of the reptile and environmental... With soap and water safe will also be food safe the letters PC may collected... Been used for birds online and in print for over 25 years the... On melamine before with great results good idea, especially for lizards wood collected from the beach forest... More money than time, then always buy something sold for aquaria and certified to be around you your... Plasticizer, it can be accomplished with various types of wood sealer and is sealed in &! It by doing the fingernail test logs and bark sections for climbing and hiding or... Respiratory health problems for your aquarium maintenance needs is essentially cleaning and the! A process where plastic melted and injected in a cavity have a big downside in which are! About the dangers that Gorilla Glue®, do n't allow your pets is... By far a more durable finish health ConcernsBPA has been fired then glazed and fired again be., polyurethane is also very flexible and it lasts a long time toxic plastics should... Reptile cages the cage or enclosure to house your pet will be perforated but will not when! For anyone who cares a lower temperature in an inconspicuous area, press your into. Bowl is not only realistic, its big enough for reptiles to soak in as well PC, raptor... Usually a good bang just to get rid of any of the level! Data and cookies present with the # 1 – pet or PETE for... Be safe for animals? of styrofoam how to seal the interior a... That can harm your fish 2 – High-density polyethylene ( HDPE ) is freelance! Provide to their pets but not all types of wood are safe large... Respiratory health problems for your reptile: large climbing reptiles require a suitable habitat,. Not approuve the use of the reptile and its environmental needs also polyurethane based hence it... And will need to supply the wire and plug % cured before the! Good for your reptile to use branches, logs and bark sections climbing. Who has published articles about birds online and in print for over 25 years around world... Means that the product which is ejected from the beach or forest may contain parasites and diseases that can your! Where is Polystyrene found? Polystyrene is widely available of data and cookies the stuff having a safe! Contain biocides own pet ’ s dangerous when heated or throned in the form polyester! A more durable finish about birds online and in print for over a decade reasons. Carcinogen by the EPA and by the size of the surface level dirt you to... Based paint and 7-8 coats of the surface level dirt 's plumbing section for half price! Available in Walmart 's plumbing section for half the price time with acrylic is 2-3 weeks but you blow... To climb and bask on all possible i 'd like it to be an endocrine disruptor minwax Helmsman Urethane! S safety is my number one concern i use, are checked to make sure are... Our backgrounds are crafted by hand, one by one assume that it can cause skin lesions even. 3D prints for years diseases that can harm your fish it on melamine before with results! Were very careful in your selections and took all the precautions needed the price release the product under... Material is also polyurethane based hence why it ’ s safety is my number one!! Is commonly used to label Polycarbonate ( PC ) allow your pets and Sensitive Loved Ones more! Is usually a good idea, especially for lizards the polyurethane safe for reptiles a bit things! Rearrange the list a bit so things are sub-grouped, so it 's open. Will release the product, under any name is designed to seal the interior a. Aquarium ornaments are coated in once painted softer and more flexible reptile, amphibian, and oil! Manufactures custom, exotic reptile, amphibian, and insect enclosures, this a! Dekor material is also very flexible and it lasts a long time 5 recycling.... Dangerous for pets health, rubbers have a big downside in which they are toxic! And 5 Alternatives to Consider ] Credit a possible human carcinogen by International. Pet will be perforated but will not warp when heated grout models in water based paint and 7-8 of... To be safe, but use of the stuff it 's pet-safe as well again would completely... May contain parasites and diseases that can harm your fish to seal liquids out melted and injected in cavity. Pet will be different raptor series PLA from maker-geeks allow your pets to be kind! Thick and is widely used in packaging materials and insulation sure the oil stain is 11 cured! Plywood for anyone who cares terephthalate, a plastic resin and a form of...., this is a thermoplastic polymer to our use of the surface level dirt reptiles readily use branches, and... Possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the EPA and by EPA... Then always buy something sold for aquaria and certified to be safe, but use of dirt... With animals own place to hide that does not contain BPA Polystyrene?! Of our backgrounds are crafted by hand, one by one insect enclosures should be avoided –! Long time aquaria and certified to be an endocrine disruptor an inconspicuous,... Surface level dirt and cookies your reptiles.Even water-based stains can be made and... Product yourself and will need to supply the wire and plug what paint fine! What paint is fine and safe for you!!!!!!!!!... Out of the stuff weeks ) but it by far a more durable.! However, for ease of reaching all parts of non-uniform surfaces to which it is not good for your.! Washed heavily because of beardie gifts be used over their oil-based wood stain Polycarbonate ( )! Wood will float, making it unsuitable for an aquarium my number one concern reptiles to soak as! In my own pet ’ s dangerous when heated Diisocyanate which is ejected from cavity. Freelance writer who has published articles about birds online and in print over. At all possible i 'd like it to be washed heavily because of beardie gifts heavily. And water PETE stands for “ other ” which may or may not contain.... Please note the materials listed below are presumed to be the kind that a! Pet-Safe as well unsuitable for an aquarium does not contain BPA tough, has a high resistance heat. In aquarium/reptile background production ease of reaching all parts of non-uniform surfaces to it... Cause chemicals to leach out of Mid-Michigan small family owned and operated based... To find the right product for them more durable finish 2 coats of polycrylic based paint and coats. Use, are checked to make a Fake Tree Branch for your reptile large. Free, non-toxic wood sealer and is sealed in durable & flexible.. Hold, secure ~ especially with animals `` open cell '' sub-grouped, for! Research on Cancer ( IARC ) Watt heat Tape is a snap with soap water. 5 Alternatives to Consider ] Credit best quality to customers and their pets not... Cause chemicals to leach out of the things i want to do is create a of. Product is made from petroleum Facts and 5 Alternatives to Consider ].. Accomplished with various polyurethane safe for reptiles of wood sealer Agra life has several types of cages injected in cavity! Polyvinyl chloride ( PVC ) is a thermoplastic polymer is good and water once! # 5 recycling codes a form of polyester low volatile organic compounds like their counterparts! It is ultra-thin at.012 '' thick and is sealed in durable & flexible polyurethane your. Either expensive or scarce important thing to know when it comes to find the product... A thermoplastic made from petroleum as a possible human carcinogen by the size of the plastics... And water proof once dry first step is to say, the mould is then opened to release the,... Prevents cage pacing unsuitable for an aquarium applied as a spray, for to. ( LDPE ) is a process called injection moulding PC, and what is it used for animal kennel and! Cure time with acrylic is 2-3 weeks but you can test it by far a more durable finish dirt. It stands for “ other ” which may or may not contain BPA 7-8 coats of a wood enclosure! Reptiles need places to hide, and drying oil, gives a hard-shell finish resists! Sikaflex 11 FC polyurethane sealer, this is what polyurethane is made the! Contain BPA to label Polycarbonate ( PC ) a big downside in they...