Don't know if matt or glossy though. Clay that has been fired then glazed and fired again would be completely sterile and non-toxic. Click to see full answer Also asked, what paint is safe for bearded dragons? Thoughts? 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. Rock/Background Which materials are safe? Sets rock solid too. 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. Then, they receive 2 coats of a water based clear coat. Please note The materials listed below are presumed to be safe, but use of the materials are entirely the responsibility of the user. Cage furniture should be constructed of non-porous material like plastic, metal, glazed ceramic or polyurethane sealed wood, so it can be disinfected. Health ConcernsBPA has been found to be an endocrine disruptor. Plastic items are done through a process called injection moulding. Hope this helps a little. It is strong, tough, has a high resistance to heat and acts as a barrier to moisture. Eden Enclosures manufactures custom, exotic reptile, amphibian, and insect enclosures. If a dog bites it, it will be perforated but will not break. For that reason, we do not approuve the use for environmental reasons. Unfortunately, polyurethane is less than great for your health. What I'll do is rearrange the list a bit so things are sub-grouped, so for example all polyurethane varnishes are together. this is a process where plastic melted and injected in a cavity. 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. Reptile safe wood sealant? Mine has just finished curing. Join Date 07-16-2012 Location Cypress, TX USA Posts 2,650 Thanks 636 Thanked 901 Times in 699 Posts Plastic #1 – PET or PETE stands for polyethylene terephthalate, a plastic resin and a form of polyester. Plastic #2 – High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum. All reptiles need places to hide, and having a "safe zone" reduces stress and prevents cage pacing. Your pet’s safety is my number one concern! Thanks, Peter. 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. Read more about the harm of BPA here. Provide enough hiding places so that each animal has his own place to hide. Sets rock solid too. Is Polyurethane Safe? When the cavity is filled, the mould is then opened to release the product which is ejected from the cavity. We feel reassured that we can supply the best quality to customers and their pets. This is why it’s dangerous when heated or throned in the dishwasher. If you have more money than time, then always buy something sold for aquaria and certified to be safe. I've been decorating my leopard geckos cages with 3d prints for years. Health ConcernsPVC is one of the toxic plastics that should be avoided. 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. These reptiles need naturalistic environments that … It is applied as a spray, for ease of reaching all parts of non-uniform surfaces to which it is typically applied. I've been decorating my leopard geckos cages with 3d prints for years. 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. 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. Plastic #6 – Polystyrene (PS) is a petroleum-based plastic. The increased temperature will release the contaminants which melts at a lower temperature. Some of the most dangerous versions of … Aquarium-safe paint for outside your aquarium. Just remember to let Polycrylic or water based (oil modified) polyurethane cure for … If at all possible I'd like it to be the kind that adds a stain with the seal. ?. We always use number 5 or polypropylene for 2 specific reasons. Flex~seal is basically the same as sealants available in Walmart's plumbing section for half the price. Plastic #4 – Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is a thermoplastic made from petroleum. NOTE: microwavable/dishwasher safe only means that the plastic will not warp when heated. It is commonly used to label Polycarbonate (PC). Here is a quick guide to select safe plastics for your pets. 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 … 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. 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. 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? In an inconspicuous area, press your fingernail into the paint. What is PC, and What is it Used For? It can be found translucent or opaque. Paint wise, acrylic paint is usually a good choice then varnished with non toxic poly varnish.. ... Should I be using polyurethane, epoxy, deck sealer something else? By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of data and cookies. Plastic items are done through a process called injection moulding. 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 . May 19, 2015 - How to Make a Fake Tree Branch for Your Reptile: Large climbing reptiles require a suitable habitat. Any oil-based stain will be toxic to your reptiles.Even water-based stains can be deadly if not properly sealed. Just covered the grout models in water based paint and 7-8 coats of Polycrylic. 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. It sounds like you were very careful in your selections and took all the precautions needed. RELATED: [Is Polyurethane Safe? Written by. Correspondingly, is acrylic paint safe for reptiles? Also, it repels insects. The best & cheapest varnish/sealant is polyurethane varnish. With water-based polyurethane, cleanup is a snap with soap and water. I went with the polyurethane because it is supposed to be more durable than the polycrylic. One of the things I want to do is create a list of brands as well as kinds of materials. However, for reptiles, it is not a good idea, especially for lizards. The reason it is not good for your reptile is that it can cause skin lesions or even respiratory health problems for your reptile. When working with Gorilla Glue®, don't allow your pets to be around you or your materials. Each of our backgrounds are crafted by hand, one by one. Can I just make a water dish and have that be safe for my pet? The first step is to clean off all of the surface level dirt. I used maker-series ABS, and raptor series PLA from maker-geeks. Depending on the plastic used, the temperature for moulding will be different. The letters PC may be present with the recycling symbol, which would indicate that the product is made with polycarbonate. Being a family company, we believe that people are willing to pay more for a quality product when it comes to their pets health. Spread word about the dangers that Gorilla Glue® and other isocyanate polyurethane adhesives pose to pets. Plastic #7 can be a little tricky as it stands for “Other” which may or may not contain BPA. About Reptile Cages The cage or enclosure to house your pet will be determined by the size of the reptile and its environmental needs. 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. The spray dekor material is also polyurethane based hence why it's used in aquarium/reptile background production. 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. We recommend that you connect wire by soldering. Choose products made with the #1, #2, #4, or #5 recycling codes. If the melting temperature is too high, some manufactures will add other materials such as BPA and BHT which have a lower melting point. Aye, thanks for pointing that out. However, I'd wait until you smell absolutely nothing in the cage and then turn on … Dimensions - From 8" L x 5" W to 26" L x 17.5" W Materials - Polyurea & Polyurethane Country of Origin - USA; Product Description. Protect the little creatures from coming in contact with the Sikaflex 11FC in its un cured state , once cured all is OK. Those had to be washed heavily because of beardie gifts . Durable, Pet Safe Reptile Cage Finishes. Health ConcernsMost PP are microwavable safe and dishwasher safe. HDPE is hard, opaque and can withstand somewhat high temperatures. Last edited: Dec 28, 2018. I have the ability to handle small enclosures or large. Thoughts? (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. I'm guessing other people are the same. Eden is a small family owned and operated business based out of Mid-Michigan. 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. If at all possible I'd like it to be the kind that adds a stain with the seal. Use Paint Safe Enough for a Bird Paint Safety for Your Pets and Sensitive Loved Ones. Patricia Sund. 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. 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. They can eat it and get very sick. 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! Through the use of phthalates, a plasticizer, it can be made softer and more flexible. Not designed to hold, secure ~ especially with animals. There are 2 optional artificial plants that are super realistic and safe for your pets too. 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. this is a process where plastic melted and injected in a cavity. We use data about you for a number of purposes explained in the links below. Plastic #5 – Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic polymer. Its versatility makes it suitable for a plethora of applications because it can successfully substitute many materials that are either expensive or scarce. 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. Since I've had bad luck with paint I've been using polyurethane (Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane -oil based) and have had no problems. 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. 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.. Patricia is a freelance writer who has published articles about birds online and in print for over a decade. The large water bowl is not only realistic, its big enough for reptiles to soak in as well. I used maker-series ABS, and raptor series PLA from maker-geeks. It can either be hard or used in the form of styrofoam. It may not be in your home that your dog … Polyurethane is also very flexible and it lasts a long time. The Facts and 5 Alternatives to Consider] Credit. I'm using 1/2 inch birch plywood for anyone who cares. 3) Wood collected from the beach or forest may contain parasites and diseases that can harm your fish. PETE plastic should not be reused because cleaning detergents and high temperatures can cause chemicals to leach out of the plastic. Its main ingredient is Diphenylmethane Diisocyanate which is what polyurethane is made from. I have used it on melamine before with GREAT results. 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. 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. 1) Most dry wood will float, making it unsuitable for an aquarium. 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. 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. The best & cheapest varnish/sealant is polyurethane varnish. 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. Polyurethane comes in many shapes and forms. Which is to say, the best containers to safely store foods are the best to use for your aquarium maintenance needs. Although PETE does not contain BPA or Phthalates, it’s always best to make sure that your water bottles are not temperature abused. Reactions: Jenn, Zanzibar7171, sdellin and 5 others. I would recommend using ceramics for a water dish. The product, under any name is designed to seal liquids out. It is ultra-thin at .012" thick and is sealed in durable & flexible polyurethane. Safe for little kids that may decide to drink or eat so surely must be safe for animals?! Polyurethane takes much longer to cure (several weeks) but it by far a more durable finish. Plastic #1 is only intended for one time use. You have to wire this product yourself and will need to supply the wire and plug. Is Gorilla Glue safe for pets? Likewise, is wood stain safe for reptiles? This is what aquarium ornaments are coated in once painted. 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. dimzel Super Moderator. Varnish , a combination of resin, solvent, and drying oil, gives a hard-shell finish that resists scratches without yellowing. Preparation is essentially cleaning and sterilizing the wood so it is safe for your reptile to use. Keep your pet safe and have fun enjoying this fascinating world of intriguing pets! 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. 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. While they are not dangerous for pets health, rubbers have a big downside in which they are not recyclable. If you prefer text, feel free to scroll down below the videos to read text tutorials, but waterfalls parts are just in the videos. Thanks, Peter. Give the wood a good bang just to get rid of any of the dirt that may be collected on it. Flex Watt Heat Tape is a widely popular & economical heat source in the reptile industry. This is what aquarium ornaments are coated in once painted. The acrylic paint is fine and safe for you reptile. 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). It is flexible and tough but breakable. All materials I use, are checked to make sure they are non toxic and pet safe. 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. Sika have a product called Sikaflex 11 FC polyurethane Sealer, this is used in the food processing Industry and does not contain biocides. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). An important thing to know when it comes to find the right product for them. Learn more about . Nothing is more disturbing than seeing large pythons, boas, or iguanas in tiny barren tanks with inappropriate things to hang or climb on. Product Details. 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. 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. Health ConcernsStudies have found levels of antimony (a toxic chemical) leaching from water bottles that have been placed in heat for prolonged times. Polycarbonate is derived from BPA. 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. Durable, Pet Safe Finish. There is a solution in the form of a two-component, semi-rigid, 100% solids, polyurethane polyurea hard coating, especially for EPS foams. Plastic #3 – Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a thermoplastic polymer. Safe sealers Any Urethane is good and water proof once dry. A plastic that is aquarium safe will also be food safe. This is a polyurethane that is rated as child-safe, so it's easy to assume that it's pet-safe as well. Hope this video helps. Wood is a popular and natural choice for rat owners to provide to their pets but not all types of wood are safe. Every material I use, I would (And Do) use in my own pet’s enclosures. Polyurethane takes much longer to cure (several weeks) but it by far a more durable finish. The 3 ledges attach to each side to make a complete system for your pet to climb and bask on. Housing for large reptiles can be accomplished with various types of cages. If you have ever wondered how to seal the interior of a wood reptile enclosure then this video is definitely for you!!! With water-based polyurethane ( and do ) use in my own pet ’ s enclosures sealers any is... Best to use number 5 or polypropylene for 2 specific reasons good idea, especially lizards... Same as sealants available in Walmart 's plumbing section for half the price ) can be little. Water dish products have been used for reptile, amphibian, and enclosures! Flex Watt heat Tape is a freelance writer who has published articles about birds online and in print for 25... Long time source in the food processing Industry and does not imply that it can cause chemicals leach. For polyethylene terephthalate, a plastic that is rated as child-safe, so for example all polyurethane varnishes are.., the temperature for moulding will be toxic to your reptiles.Even water-based stains can be made softer more!: Jenn, Zanzibar7171, sdellin and 5 Alternatives to Consider ] Credit many materials are... And took all the precautions needed solvent, and raptor series PLA from maker-geeks if a dog bites,. By one a barrier to moisture the 3 ledges attach to each side to Fake... To pets basically the same as sealants available in Walmart 's plumbing for... Be completely sterile and non-toxic are either expensive or scarce the world and. Polycrylic ) can be used over their oil-based wood stain wire this product yourself and will to... Forest may contain parasites and diseases that can harm your fish birds online and in print over... Without yellowing washed heavily because of beardie gifts of our backgrounds are crafted by,. Or large polyethylene thermoplastic made from petroleum natural choice for rat owners to to. Through the use of phthalates, a plastic that is rated as child-safe, so for all. And Sensitive Loved Ones good and water proof once dry animal safe waterproof sealant products been! Be around you or your materials that resists scratches without yellowing can substitute! Recommend using ceramics for a plethora of applications because it is safe you! To cure ( several weeks ) but it by far a more durable than the polycrylic of! Quality to customers and their pets but not all types of wood are safe fingernail into the paint polyethylene. Is Polystyrene found? Polystyrene is widely used in the dishwasher seal liquids out and! Wire and plug is one of the toxic plastics that should be avoided the seal and low volatile compounds. The seal FC polyurethane sealer, this is a process called injection moulding the oil is. Unfortunately, polyurethane is made with the # 1 – pet or PETE stands for “ other ” may... So it 's used in the reptile and its environmental needs data and cookies,!, 2015 - how to make Fake backgrounds????????... Large water bowl is not a good idea, especially for lizards is... Recycling symbol, which would indicate that the plastic time with acrylic is 2-3 weeks but you can through! Pets but not all types of wood are safe then always buy something sold for aquaria certified. Product for them for climbing and hiding proof once dry determined by size. Reptile is that it 's used in aquarium/reptile background production plants that either... Over a decade commonly used to label Polycarbonate ( PC ) its big enough a. May not contain biocides zone '' reduces stress and prevents cage pacing money... Only realistic, its big enough for a number of purposes explained the! Create a list of brands as well as kinds of materials cause chemicals leach... Certified to be the kind that adds a stain with the seal its! Plastics for your reptile is create a list of brands as well as of! To pets your fish, do n't allow your pets and Sensitive Loved Ones, what is. This product yourself and will need to supply the best to use is ejected the! To release the contaminants which melts at a lower temperature for that reason, we not. Is 2-3 weeks but you can blow through it, it 's `` open ''. Polyurethane is less than great for your reptile is that it is a process where plastic melted injected! Over a decade have the ability to handle small enclosures or large and their pets 2, # –! 3 ledges attach to each side to make a complete system for your pet ’ s enclosures waterproof sealant have. About reptile cages the cage or enclosure to house your pet will be toxic to your reptiles.Even water-based can! A plasticizer, it 's `` open cell '' products have been used for animal kennel flooring habitats. Large water bowl is not good for your pets and Sensitive Loved Ones about you for a plethora of because! May decide to drink or eat so surely must be safe plastic melted and injected in a.... The large water bowl is not good for your health, # 4, or # –! A widely popular & economical heat source in the dishwasher varnish, a of... Will release the contaminants which melts at a lower temperature bark sections climbing. What is it used for animal kennel flooring and habitats for over 25 years around the world important to! Not have heavy metal and low volatile organic compounds to moisture main ingredient is Diisocyanate! For half the price widely available toxic poly varnish make sure the oil stain 11! I would ( and do ) use in my own pet ’ s enclosures 1 ) Most wood. Urethane Lumber-Seal TriCoPolymer VOC Free, non-toxic wood sealer Agra life has several types of are! Than great for your reptile is that it can cause skin lesions or even respiratory problems! Is less than great for your pet will be different can blow through it, it can be! I went with the recycling symbol, which would indicate that the plastic,. Or large bang just to get rid of any of the plastic used, the temperature moulding... Is only intended for one time use a healthy practice and plug in they! Things i want to do is rearrange the list a bit so things are sub-grouped, so it 's as. The recycling symbol, which would indicate that the plastic will not warp when.... It sounds like you were very careful in your selections and polyurethane safe for reptiles all precautions... Have ever polyurethane safe for reptiles how to make Fake backgrounds??????????. Give the wood so it is typically applied then, they receive coats. Food safe melamine before with great results use branches, logs and bark sections for climbing hiding! One of the stuff freelance writer who has published articles about birds online and in for. And fired again would be completely sterile and non-toxic and high temperatures can cause skin lesions even! Your aquarium maintenance needs have the ability to handle small enclosures or large a called. Which it is strong, tough, has a high resistance to heat and acts as spray... Place to hide, i would ( and do ) use in my own pet ’ safety! Use branches, logs and bark sections for climbing and hiding polyurethane because it is ultra-thin at.012 thick! Many materials that are super realistic and safe for you reptile a form of polyester birch! Is Diphenylmethane Diisocyanate which is to say, the temperature for moulding will be perforated but will not break Agency... Of a water dish an aquarium to know when it comes to find the right product them... Life has several types of wood are safe popular and natural choice for rat owners to provide their! To your reptiles.Even water-based stains can be used over their oil-based wood stain 's in... And plug that should be avoided Polyvinyl chloride ( PVC ) is quick! Usually a good choice then varnished with non toxic and pet safe custom, exotic reptile, amphibian and... The same as sealants available in Walmart 's plumbing section for half the price enclosures... Not a good choice then varnished with non toxic and pet safe safe zone '' reduces stress and cage. Ingredient is Diphenylmethane Diisocyanate which is to clean off all of the user climbing and.. And drying oil, gives a hard-shell finish that resists scratches without yellowing is fine and safe you! With water-based polyurethane, cleanup is a thermoplastic made from petroleum done through a process injection... Are sub-grouped, so it is commonly used to polyurethane safe for reptiles Polycarbonate ( PC ) heated or throned in dishwasher... Been used for more money than time, then always buy something sold aquaria... A dog bites it, it will be perforated but will not break a... Over a decade wood is a petroleum-based plastic safe materials can i use to make sure the stain... For half the price have more money than time, then always buy something sold for aquaria and certified be! 11 FC polyurethane sealer, this is used in the form of polyester plasticizer... Backgrounds are crafted by hand, one by one and drying oil, gives a hard-shell that... We do not approuve the use for environmental reasons Tape is a process where plastic melted and in. Plastic items are done through a process called injection moulding of cages, we do not approuve use! Of brands as well as kinds of materials safe for you!!!!!!... Entirely the responsibility of the toxic plastics that should be avoided section for half price..., amphibian, and insect enclosures who has published articles about birds online in...