alcatraz enclosure needed - Page 2

Linds · 07-20-03, 08:54 AM

For the Lexan, go directly to a plastics manufacturer instedad of a building supply place, it is A LOT cheaper

Just look in the yellow pages of you phone book and you should be able to find several int he area.

McCarthy Boas · 07-20-03, 06:06 PM

Hi dan2492,

I use Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane to seal the cages inside and outside.
http://www.minwax.com/products/protective/helmsman.cfm
The bottom of each cage is sealed with a clear, high build epoxy finish to aid in cleaning, and prevent water damage to the cages.
http://www.eti-usa.com/consum/envtex/envlite.htm

Hi matrix1829

I use 1/4" tempered glass in all my cage now. I can punch tempered glass and it will not break. However if you hit the edge of the glass it will break.
Lexan and Acrylic are just brand names they are the same thing.
They do scratch and after some time they do start to look bad.
You can buff the scratches out if you want to.

Take care,
Tom

matrix1829 · 07-20-03, 07:03 PM

thanks tom, can you give me some ideas on what wood to use.

McCarthy Boas · 07-20-03, 08:48 PM

Hi matrix1829

I all depends on what you like.
I use 3/4" oak plywood for my cages.

matrix1829 · 07-21-03, 06:31 PM

thanks tom you are a great help.

matrix1829 · 07-21-03, 06:37 PM

tom is it better to use envirotex or minwax. can I use these products inside and outside the enclosure.
thamks pat........

McCarthy Boas · 07-21-03, 08:06 PM

Hi matrix1829,

I seal the whole cage inside and outside first with the Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane
3 to 4 coats of this. Then after it has dried I coat the inside bottom of the cage with
envirotex. (The clear, high build epoxy finish)

If you do use the envirotex e-mail me and I can give you some tips on using it.
Or if you want to I can e-mail you my phone number and we can talk over the phone.

If you change your mind on make the cage your self I could always make it for you.

Take care,
Tom

Linds · 07-21-03, 08:13 PM

What exactly is "spar urethane" versus regular urethane?

McCarthy Boas · 07-21-03, 08:52 PM

Hi Linds,

This is from Minwax's website.

http://www.minwax.com/products/protective/helmsman.cfm

Description: A protective clear finish for interior or exterior wood that is exposed to sunlight, water or temperature changes.

Ideal For: Doors, Windowsills, Bar Tops, Outdoor Furniture, Planters

Minwax® Helmsman® Spar Urethane is specially formulated to withstand the worst environmental conditions. Minwax® Helmsman® Spar Urethane provides a finish that protects wood from the damages of rain and moisture. Special ultraviolet absorbers help protect wood from the graying and fading effects of the sun. Minwax® Helmsman® Spar Urethane also contains special oils to help the finish expand and contract with wood as the seasons and the temperature change.

Take care,
Tom