reptile enclosures
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Megzz
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16mm MDF from Bunnings is cheap and looks fine when painted thats what we use.
Nash1990
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Ive used a combination of plywood and particle board and solid timber.
Nash1990
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the finish has to be non toxic and waterproof, i use just use clear laquer. You could use a wood stain, pr maybe some paints, and then laquer over the top to seal it.
nevtalath
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I used water based outdoor texture paint (low texture not high) for the walls of my beardie enclosure. They love it, and haven't had any issues with it. I just made sure it was left for bit to air before putting anything in it. I also used just a water based wet area paint from bunnings for my snake enclosure as i figured the rough texture wouldn't really be good for her. I think it's something like $30 for white base 1L or 2L tin. Can't quite remember what size it was. The texture's more expensive but well worth the effect. I can clean it and none of the grains come out and the paint doesn't peel off. Which I needed as it was an old linen cupboard turned into enclosure (rather big and pain for heating in winter, but it keeps the perfect temps for brumation)
RushiesReptiles
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Any water based paint is fine,but just seal it with laquer on inside of viv.Even two or three coats on the joins, Makes it easier to keep sterile and clean.... I use all pine for my displays not mdf cause looks much better. V joint lining board is cheap as, and for frame 70x35 radiata pine is perfect...Just make sure its straight.
raycarpetpython
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I wouldn't be using mdf at all. probably one of the worst materials you could use.
Megzz
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Southside Morelia
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Because moisture "WILL" eventually get through and it swells like no tomorrow.
DON'T USE MDF!
Southside Morelia
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toxic if you inhale the dust when you cut or sand it....
raycarpetpython
Active Member
Imo probably the best stuff to use is the white melamine. It's cheap, fairly resistant to moisture and looks clean and neat as a finished product. Unless you want to go all fancy with stained timber finish from an old tv unit or something
what if u were to use (poly foam) in tile form on the floor and sides then use pond sealer (few coats obvisally ... would this work ?????? depending on feed back wether to try this or not thanx people 
edit : cos it would be way cheaper option )
edit : cos it would be way cheaper option )
Megzz
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Thanks thats what I'll use from now on then.
Ramsayi
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MDF is fine to use once it's sealed.I have enclosures nearly 10 years old and they are still like new.One of the biggest breeders in the country also uses it.
Pretty sure the dust from cutting melamine isn't real good for your health either.
Pretty sure the dust from cutting melamine isn't real good for your health either.
i had been told there are more chemicals in MDF than in chipboard (which is what is under the melamine) but cant be certain on that, and i have sen a home made MDF cabinet that definitely was not withstanding the test of time and moisture, so maybe its ok for experienced builders to use, but i'd say for a first timer perhaps something that requires less 'finishing' -like a laminated/veneer chipboard- would be better?
Also, because MDF is a much denser particle board it is a LOT heavier than the melamine.
Also, because MDF is a much denser particle board it is a LOT heavier than the melamine.
Nash1990
Well-Known Member
For this reason I wouldn't use particle board as your main building material, can get extremely heavy.
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