toxic wood or not ?

[zackbeardieowner]

I have been building my own cages and i have recently heard about these toxic woods i phoned my supplier where i get sheets of ply wood and asked them what kind it is and they said its called meranti is this type safe ? i was in doubt :study: because this wood is a bit reddish and the previous one i built was lighter and they said sometimes they receive different kinds but always meranti so is this meranti wood fine for my bear dies and other reptiles thanks

 

[zackbeardieowner]

bump

 

[zackbeardieowner]

?

 

[Blinksmama]

I did a quick search and the only woods I can find that are toxic to beardies is cedar. I'm not sure if pine is toxic, or just an irritant. I think I'd stear clear of all evergreens.
That being said, any wood should be fine if you've properly sealed it.

 

[zackbeardieowner]

i dont intend to seal it do i have to and if yes with what and is it safe ?

 

[Blinksmama]

Are you meaning the interior of the enclosure or the exterior? A water-based non toxic sealant can be used. It has to fully dry, so that there aren't any fumes when the animal moves into it.

 

[zackbeardieowner]

my cages are currently not sealed neither inside or exterior

 

[Blinksmama]

I wouldn't worry about the outside, if you like the look of it. If you're able to find out what adhesives/products are used in the plywood, and they're not toxic or don't release fumes that are harmful or irritants than it shouldn't be a problem. However, doesn't the unsealed wood absorb odours and moisture? How can you disinfect the interior, so it doesn't harbour bacteria and get mouldy?

 

[zackbeardieowner]

no problems till now ill try find a reptile safe varnish then

 

[Blinksmama]

I'd just hate for you to do all that work and have the enclosures start to rot or something, when they could last for years.

 

[zackbeardieowner]

true any suggestions for varnish ?

 

[Blinksmama]

No sorry I'm in the process of planning a new viv, so I've looked up a lot of things, but I'm not that familiar with what brands etc. are available. If you do a search in the DIY section, I'm sure you'll find a few recommended products

Amy

 

[zackbeardieowner]

http://www.chromaonline.com/products/au/atelier_interactive/atelier_mediums/atelier_matte_satin_gloss_medium_varnish


do you think this is good i have it at home ?

 

[Blinksmama]

I'm not sure, wood it really absorbant and you'd probably go through quite a bit. Also, how washable is it? It would probably be less expensive to buy a wood sealant.