Painting Repti-rack PVC cage

[Big K]

I bought a repti-rack 4x2 white pvc cage for very cheap online that was previously used, now I already have a black boaphile 4x2 cage. I was thinking about painting my used white cage black and was wondering if anyone has done this? I couldnt find anything online about people doing so, So i would like to hear some of your guys input.
Thanks, Kyle

[Slim]

When the subject of painting any type of plastic enclosure comes up I always worry about off gassing. Those spray paints that are formulated to go directly on plastic with out using a primer really seem to put of a lot off fumes during the painting process, and continue to have that smell for a long time after. I did some patio chairs last year, and when I pulled them out of the U-Haul after my recent move, you could still really smell the paint odor.

I have no idea how long paint will continue to off gas, and I have no idea what level of off gassing would be harmful to reptiles. For both those reasons I would stay away from trying to paint any PVC reptile enclosure.

[oskyle1567]

I used this plastic paint on tubs on the last rack i built and it scratches really easy. I wouldn't recommend the spray paint also like slim said it takes a while for those fumes to go away about a week of outside drying for me. Hope this helps maybe you can find a paint of some sort thats better.

[Big K]

yeah airing it out isnt a problem, I have a rack system untill the fumes go away I could house my snake in, Its what she is currently in, But ill keep on doing my research, thanks for the input guys

[Royal Hijinx]

I would cover it with something before painting, like some kind of thin laminate or that stuff they use to put artwork on cars. It will last longer and look better. The paint, even plastic, paint will scratch easily and look like crap after a while, especially with a white base.

[Rylmad]

Use contact paper. It is adhesive and will hold up for a good while without worrying about off gassing. You can get it in black:

Black Contact Paper

[kitedemon]

Painting plastics is tricky business. The only paint I would suggest is a linear polyurethane paint. They fully cure 100% in a day or two and if the surface is prepared it sticks fine. The problem with two part polyurethanes is the cost. Once mixed it will turn hard no matter what you do so you have 4-8 hours and that is it. There is no saving the extra. I used to buy it wholesale and paid 90$ a quart. I think retail is 110-120$ a quart. I'd not bother myself and just leave it white or break it down and use it as a pattern for a new one.


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[Big K]

yeah maybe Ill use contact paper for the inside and just paint the outside so it looks better with my other cage, thanks for all the input, appreciate it.
-Kyle