Paint safe for DIY rock project

[ryverrat]

I've checked out a couple of forums for DIY rocks- want to make a multilevel for my congo. I want to build with foam, add some weight and coat in paint and sand. Anyone know which paints are safe in freshwater tanks? Saw one post that said any 100% latex is safe? Also any safe epoxies (for sand coat)?

[edmlfc1]

Here's a really good step by step with pictures of the items you will need. Including color for the background (not paint, pigment).
http://www.thecichlidgallery.com/articl ... ground.htm

[Agnate]

I found it *way* too hard to do with cement. Mine just kept cracking and breaking off, which is why I actually gave up on that project (it's somewhere in this forum). I recently found a much better way from my local club, and I plan on trying it when summer comes around. It looks considerably easier and more stable.

http://ottawainverts.com/2008/12/13/bui ... ock-walls/

Enjoy!

[j_wishbone]

Ive had the same issues working with cement

and I started to add some pond sealer type glueish material

and it kept the cement intact under water


maybe try mixing in that pond sealer stuff with your cement mix!!!

[Agnate]

Did you put the sealer over or under the cement coat?

[Jase]

Paul, I read that project and it sounds like the best way to do it from all the projects i researched. thanks for the link.

[Agnate]

Aye, I agree! I'm going to try a version of it, but for making caves/structures instead of a background. Hopefully it goes well.

[Jase]

When you do it, update us with your version please

[j_wishbone]

Did you put the sealer over or under the cement coat?

I mixed it with cement, sand and colour (for cement rendering) all together with water

but I guess you can coat it on top pf the cement.. but if you miss a spot it will get in the concrete and start cracking it?!