Using Epoxy

[EXXXtacy2000]

I've heard a few different stories on epoxy. Some poeple have said they have used it in the inside of their enclosure and after it was cured, that it doesn't offgas or has nothing toxic to the touchor harmfull to the snake. Others have said that it's too toxic and not to use it what-so-ever and to use polyurethans. Just wondering if anyone knew for sure before I seal my enclosure. Any kinda help would be graetfull.

Thanks
Alex

[Linds]

A true Epoxy Resin should not be at all harmful once cured. I will use it any day over polyurethanes which do offgas and don't offer the best possible protection. Epoxy resin is commonly used to seal marine stuff, fish tanks/ponds, to seal food preparation surfaces and pharmaceutical areas, meaning it absolutely must not output any toxins at all once cured. Epoxy is toxic while in its liquid state however, as it is a chemical, so caution must be applied when using it - gloves, ventilation, etc.

[crazyboy]

Being that epoxy resin is used on different types of tables, cooking surfaces, etc. i think that it would have to have absolutley no offgassing in order to pass a health inspection. if it is safe enough for everyones food to be on it should be safe enough for your herps. Although, my question of whether or not garage floor coating epoxy can be used has yet to be answered so when the time comes to make an anclosure i will have to try it out.

[Derrick]

just so ya know there are many epoxy paints that arent suitable for enclosures and/or wood application. Just make sure you get the right stuff

[Linds]

Originally posted by crazyboy
Although, my question of whether or not garage floor coating epoxy can be used has yet to be answered so when the time comes to make an anclosure i will have to try it out.

The kind used on garage floors isn't an epoxy resin, it is an epoxy paint. The ones I have seen are just a one-part application. True epoxy resins require a catalyst to be mixed in and have a limited working time before hardening. I think Trevor was experimenting to a garage floor paint in his enclosures, so he may be able to give you some more specific info on what type he is using and whatnot.

[scalawag]

Do epoxy resins come colored or are they just clear. Would you paint over them? And also could you use the silicone to 'round' out the corners to make them easier to clean? I've not had any luck finding melamine any larger than 12"x16" so I think I'll have to go with MDF. Thanks.

[Linds]

Scalawag,
Yes, epoxies can be available in different coloured tints. The kind I have is clear, and I wasn't happy with the wood so I painted it black with an alkyd housepaint before applying the epoxy. You wouldn't want to paint over the epoxy, but painting beforehand is fine. Yes, it is still a good idea to seal off the edges with silicone. I would suggest going with an exterior grade plywood instead of MDF if you can. Not only will it be lighter in weight, but also a much healthier choice. MDF offgasses all sorts of garbage.

[latazyo]

is there any reason that a thick layer of regular paint will not work?

[guapote's gape]

I currently have 3800 gallons worth of aquariums in my basement with the largest being a 700gallon tank. All I repeat all are made out of high quality plywoods and look like fine furniture and are finished with a quality 2 part epoxy. I've been building these things for the better part of 30 years so I have a bit of a clue of what I'm doing when it comes to these products.
If anyone wants any specific tips etc.. please don't hesitate to drop me aline. crazyfish@shaw.ca
Guapote

[latazyo]

any pics?

[Linds]

Originally posted by latazyo
is there any reason that a thick layer of regular paint will not work?

Because paint has almost no water-resistance, in addition to which it isn't the safest choice to use.

[FoShizzleDizzle]

Great advice! Thanks everyone. I'm almost finished. The epoxy is looking good.