I think you would be exceeding the natural characteristics of any wood I've
ever heard of. Man-made materials such as galvanized metal, copper, ABS
plastics or other materials might be much better suited for the intended
purpose. Think about it.......a platter exposed to the winter cold on one
side and expected to hold heated water on the other................. Wood
is a great material, but it has limitations.

Barry


"BirdOasis" wrote in message
oups.com...
I'm new to the group. My name is John Patrick and I sell Heated Bird
Baths online. I have an idea of turning a plater with a rise in the
middle that is just under the hight of the rim.

I can easily put a bird bath deicer on the bottom of the plater to
provide the heat. My concerns are as follows.

How would I attach the heating element. See it he
http://www.farminnovators.com/page9.htm Its the Economical Bird Bath
Deicer.

What wood is best for winter weather? Less likely to crack, keep in
mind it will have a 44 watt heating element to keep the wood and the
water warm even in freezing temperatures.

Will the heat darken the wood?

What would I use to protect the wood from the water without harming the
birds?

Is this even possible?

John Patrick
www.birdoasis.com