>Does anyone know if polyurethane is toxic (and if so, how toxic it is) to
>ferrets? ...
 
Well, without mention of whether they are applying a water-based or solvent
based poly, I'll consider both.  If solvent based, it will be toxic for a
min. of 24 hrs.  during primary cure.  Solvent based poly will usually cure
entirely within 2 weeks.  Water-based poly uses several different
formulations, although the primary cure is shorter(1 hr), the full cure
takes up to 30 days.  However, these water-based formulas are considered far
safer.
 
HAZARDS: First, the buffing of the old finish will undoubtedly produce
harmful dust because the surface must be deglossed or roughed because poly
relies partly on a mechanical bond, that will take some time to settle
completely(24hr).  Second, the vapor during the primary cure will tend to
settle since they often rise, bond with existing water vapor(humidity) and
drop.  ***Your ferrets should be nowhere near any of this operation until it
is fully completed and at least 72 hrs after application of the final coat
if solvent-based, 24 hrs if water-based.
 
*** You are entitled to the "Material Safety Data Sheet" of ANY coating
product used in your home, and the contractor is obligated to make this
available.  This will give all pertinent health info of the particular
coating(s) used.  Remember, the surrounding humidity, ventilation, and
temperatures effect these times, as does the thickness of the applications,
methods used, and the substrate conditions.  Usually 72/24hr respectively is
a safe bet.  This will mean some inconvenience for you, but to reduce these
times may end up costing you much more.
 
best wishes,
until next time,
alphachi
[Posted in FML issue 2203]