Urethanes safe?

[Gex]

Hey there all, and thank you in advance. Im thinking of using some bird nesting boxes for a few of my gecko species that benefit from nest/hide boxes. Just wondering what a safe water prrofing solution would be to use on both the inside and outside?

[Bruin30]

Hi, Gex--
Was flipping through, and hope someone gave you the answers you needed within the past year. I won't tell you you're going to kill your little guys if you did anything specific, but here's what I know from 15 years of painting experience:
--- ALWAYS Acrylic on ANYTHING that's going to come into contact with foodstuffs. Since this is an animal enclosure, it's simply the safest bet. Sure, some use Shellac, because it's "all natural," Some will use Oil-based Urethane for the durability, but ounce for ounce, the Acrylic, water-based coatings will contain less toxic material.
Again, I don't know enough about the true biology of your animals vs. any others, but definitely start here, and use extra coats to add to the durability. Follow manufacturers' directions. Sand between coats, and pile the stuff on in thin layers.

Good luck.