I have a couple of oak barrel fountains and I have inserted the molded
plastic liners to keep them from leaking. These work great, but I
don't like the way look, I would like to find a flexible sealant that I
can brush or spray on the inside of the barrel. There is a catch; I
would also like to be able to put fish in the fountain, so nothing
toxic.

Anyone have any ideas?

Thanks!
Steve

wrote:
I have a couple of oak barrel fountains and I have inserted the molded
plastic liners to keep them from leaking. These work great, but I
don't like the way look, I would like to find a flexible sealant that I
can brush or spray on the inside of the barrel. There is a catch; I
would also like to be able to put fish in the fountain, so nothing
toxic.

Long ago I used to make wine in oak barrels. Once wet, they expand and
seal themselves. But the reason that oak is used is because it
supplies tannin which is an acid. I doubt that your fish will survive
it. So some sort of pool sealer or basement glop or maybe, expoxy paint
would be better than plain wood.

how ironic, that natural way is toxic
Thanks for the information, I never thought about the taninsbeing a
problem. I will also check into a possible additive to neutralize the
acid, may or may not exist, but worth a check.

I would still be interested if anyone knows of a specific product that
is non-toxic.

Have a good day and thanks for the response!
Steve

wrote:

how ironic, that natural way is toxic
Thanks for the information, I never thought about the taninsbeing a
problem. I will also check into a possible additive to neutralize the
acid, may or may not exist, but worth a check.

I would still be interested if anyone knows of a specific product that
is non-toxic.

Well, if the barrel is intended for human as well as fish, i.e. an hot
tub, the traditional wood is redwood. Be careful of splinters.