DIY Rock Wall Questions

Bigdan2181 · 11-04-2012, 07:24 PM

I'm considering building a rock wall back ground for my aquarium. So far from my research I know egg crate and zip ties are the way to start your base. Then use Great Stuff expandable foam to create your actual wall formation. My question is what epoxy do you use that is aquarium safe? Also what 'paint' can you use to color the wall, or is it best to add crushed rock with sand to the formation while the epoxy is drying.

Any ideas and tips are appreciated!!

StraightAddicted · 11-04-2012, 11:41 PM

This might help some.

http://www.critterhub.com/3d-aquariu...s-a-diy-guide/

Shows you how to and products used for nice DIY rock background.

lochaber · 11-05-2012, 09:36 PM

I've done set ups just using styrofoam coated in an epoxy/sand mix (I've also used polyester resin, but getting the mix right is trickier, and the fumes are pretty bad).

I've usually used the two-part pour on epoxy that you can find in a lot of craft stores, and sometimes even lowes/home depot. just mix up a batch, throw in a bunch of sand, apply it to the styrofoam, and dust some sand on top (just makes it less glossy, and wouldn't really be needed if the piece is submerged).

11-04-2012, 07:24 PM	#1
Bigdan2181 Algae Grower (View User Tanks) PTrader: (0/0%) Join Date: Sep 2012 Location: San Antonio, Tx Posts: 14	DIY Rock Wall Questions I'm considering building a rock wall back ground for my aquarium. So far from my research I know egg crate and zip ties are the way to start your base. Then use Great Stuff expandable foam to create your actual wall formation. My question is what epoxy do you use that is aquarium safe? Also what 'paint' can you use to color the wall, or is it best to add crushed rock with sand to the formation while the epoxy is drying. Any ideas and tips are appreciated!!

11-04-2012, 11:41 PM	#2
StraightAddicted Planted Tank Obsessed (View User Tanks) PTrader: (9/100%) Join Date: May 2012 Location: Dothan, AL Posts: 355	This might help some. http://www.critterhub.com/3d-aquariu...s-a-diy-guide/ Shows you how to and products used for nice DIY rock background. __________________ The worst defeat in the world, is when you give up.

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11-05-2012, 09:36 PM	#3
lochaber Planted Tank Enthusiast (View User Tanks) PTrader: (0/0%) Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Oakland, CA Posts: 746	I've done set ups just using styrofoam coated in an epoxy/sand mix (I've also used polyester resin, but getting the mix right is trickier, and the fumes are pretty bad). I've usually used the two-part pour on epoxy that you can find in a lot of craft stores, and sometimes even lowes/home depot. just mix up a batch, throw in a bunch of sand, apply it to the styrofoam, and dust some sand on top (just makes it less glossy, and wouldn't really be needed if the piece is submerged).