Sealing question

Jdvogt · #1 05-17-2011, 07:27 PM

My buddy and I just jumped into a huge build for our boa and we're wrapping it up (pics soon). We did styro and sprayfoam for building, then spread mortar over everything. Then we painted with acrylic paint.

At this point we are stumped as the info out there is all over the board.

Do we seal the mortar / acrylic or not? There will be a waterfall, we will be adding a spray system for humidity.

If we should seal it, is it safe to use a polyurethane? Do we choose water or oil base? If not a poly, what should we use? Thanks!

SobaTales · #2 07-27-2011, 04:26 PM

Yes you should seal it otherwise the acrylic will wash away over time.

If you go with poly, get water based, also look for something that says "non-yellowing" or UV protected/proof (I used RustOleum's waterbased Varathane and in three months have not had any problems).

You can also use clear Krylon Fusion spray paint. With both, let it throughly dry between coats. Also let it air out for several days to a week to let all the fumes out (putting it in the sun/ UV rays will speed up the process).

Look around, there are several threads that deal with how to apply and make the sealant look less shiny/more real.

Bluephish · #3 07-28-2011, 11:28 AM

IM in the same boat as far as what sealant to use for my tree frogs waterfall. I have not really been able to find any posts with a strait answer of this works, i have tried it, this brand.( except stuff that needs to be ordered from some marine supply company)

Im not saying anything to say your not right jdvogt but i read a few post that did not speak well of polyurethane sealant. One post had problems with dead frogs, another said the min wax type turned white when wet. One just said "oh polyurethane that was not a good idea."

but it could be safer for snakes than frogs as well.

Hopefully we can get a few more people to come out and say its all good.

I was about to go out and buy the varathane as soon as soon as you posted that, cause i was like finally someone with a strait answer and brand. Now i read posts to contradict it and i am back to im not sure.