Question on interior canopy finish.

Patrick G. · #1 05/26/2003, 04:08 PM

I've already put 2 coats of this on the inside of my canopy (oak/dual 250w MH/dual 110w VHO):

(click on images for description)

However, I won't be setting up my tank for 6 months, so I've decided why not do all that I can to protect it. So, I was thinking of adding another coat of the paint, and then putting something on top of that. I was thinking either this:

or this:

or maybe this:

Can I use any/all/none of the preceding over the paint? Any suggestions?

Patrick G. · #2 05/27/2003, 10:22 AM

BUMP

newkie · #3 05/27/2003, 03:06 PM

I also saw a marine spar sealant by minimax at home depot today.

I'm also looking for the best sealant for my diy canopy

ReeferMac · #4 05/27/2003, 03:59 PM

I recently used the Minwax Spar Eurathane on some wood for our new bay window.. came out pretty nice, but it's Polyeurathane, and PIA to work with IMO (I like paints much better). Anyways, the best substance I've ever used, was Epoxy paint. Got it a local boat store, manufacturer was "West Systems". I ended up emailing them some questions off their website, and had a rather enlightening talk w/ one of their chemists over my proposed application. Long story short, 2 coats of epoxy resin (chemical bond if possible), 2 coats of oil based outdoor white paint, and the **** will last forever and a day.

- Mac

newkie · #5 05/28/2003, 01:08 PM

bump!

SWANN · #6 05/29/2003, 12:34 AM

Hello, I was just reading through posts and saw this, I thought i could give some input.

I've worked with epoxy resin a couple times, the stuff is great ! I use it to cover my Hard Foam molds i make when I design the Ponds/landscaping for my Terrariums and Dart frog tanks. The resin makes the foam hard as rock, and waterproof. The only thing you have to watch out for though is if..you coat to much on it dries as with an amber tint..which could ruin any nice paint job...but if your using it inside your canopy..who cares right?

None the less ..thats it. THe only other question is how it holds up against heat..if your using MH's? Since the stuff is used alot to repair fiberglass on boats and such..i'm sure it will be fine though.

melev · #7 05/29/2003, 01:20 AM

Hi Patrick,

How is your sump working out for you? Is it installed, or waiting on this tank to be set up?

In regards to what to use inside your canopy, I used "Pro Finisher" Oil Modified Polyurethane. I bought Glossy, and I'm virtually positive I got it at Home Depot. The price was reasonable, and I shot it on with my air compressor and a paint sprayer. I think I shot 6 coats on the inside of my canopy, just to seal it, but the outside is what got my full attention to detail.

http://www.sparklingfloorservice.com/tank/canopy.html

Todd G. · #8 05/29/2003, 06:36 PM

Just last weekend I started working with this epoxy paint called "Tough as Tile" that is used to re-finish sinks and bath tubs.
I only have one coat on ... but I think It will be fantastic.
BTW, I plan to let it out-gass for a while.
(For 2 part epoxy... it sure has a potent smell and I would be a little concerned if I was planning to set the thing up tomorrow about toxic fumes.)
Anyway, there's .02 more for you.
Todd G.