pine particleboard

[jody73998]

Does anybody know if particleboard is safe to build a snake enclosure out of? I know that pine is used in the manufacturing. I've read that pine and cedar shavings should not be used as a substrate because of the dust and oils that they contain. I have access to some particle board. If the oils in the pine are a problem, is there any way to seal the wood?

Thanks

[Invictus]

You can use any cage material you want if it's painted or sealed.

(On a sidenote: Pine is NOT toxic to snakes unless it is aromatic pine. Most shavings you see in the pet stores are safe. I know several people, pet stores, and even large breeders in the states who have been featured in Reptiles magazine say they use pine. Just give it a sniff, and if it has a heavy wood smell or a wet feel, don't use it.)

Alas I digress....

If you use particle board, you have to seal it anyway. It's very brittle, crumbles in a second, and is hard to work with. I actually don't recommend using it.

[RepTylE]

particle board is cheap sure but invictus is right it won't last and unless you laminate it looks like crap.

[mykee]

I would go with melamine or plywood if you must.

[Kyle Barker]

melamine is just the plastic coat, melamine board as sold in stores is partical board with the melamine coating...still not good though. melamine is a weak product, and partical board moreso.