Need help, building custom enclosure

[Allybee]

My dad is building me a custom enclosure and would like to know why you have to use unsanded grout instead of sanded. Would also like to know which UVB bulb is better T5 or T8. And what is optimal high for basking platform from a basking bulb.
Thanks for help

 

[Taterbug]

Are you making a fake rock? Really you can use sanded or unsanded, which ever you like better. I think unsanded just goes on easier.

T5 are better bulbs, they are brighter and have better output. What dimensions are you building to and will it have an open of solid top? You'll want your basing platform designed around your lights. T5 with a reflector would be at 10-12" away, less without a reflector.

 

[Allybee]

To paint the rock formations would we be okay to use 1-part epoxy concrete & garage floor paint? or is there hazards to using this paint?

 

[Taterbug]

Not sure, honestly. Some epoxies/paint dry quite inert and safe, others probably not so. You'd have to research it, maybe check the MSDS (material safety data sheet). I've only used acrylic paint and grout.

 

[Allybee]

My dad would rather not use mod podge is there any other sealant anybody could recommend? The enclosure will have lots of time to sit and air out before dragon is put in. Do you water down mod podge if so whats the ratio of water to mod podge? Thanks for any help

 

[Taterbug]

I've no clue why they recommend modge podge - it's a terrible sealer. It softens back up when you get it wet. Use something like polycrylic or polyurethane. You can get the polycrylic in a spray can.

A week or so is usually sufficient to cure polyurethane.

 

[Allybee]

Thanx for help Tater my dad doesnt want to screw this up.any recommendations on brand names for sealer?He says he is going to use polyurethane sealer just doesnt know what kind.

 

[Taterbug]

I have always used min wax - I think there are other brands as well of more or less Eco-friendly ingredients. As long as it's properly cured the min wax is fine. I look forward to seeing your rock!