Fixing dry rock to back wall?

[Fasthandsslowmind]

I've got an established tank and am making a few small changes to my Aquascape. Just a little progression.

I'd like to glue a small chunk of branch rock to the overflow wall (It's a peninsula) to look like about 6-8" of branch rock is growing out of the glass.

Has anyone had any luck with getting an overhanging rock to actually stick to the back glass? If so, how?

Thanks!

The tank in question: HERE

 

[Reefing_addiction]

Ooo this could be cool!

I assume your doing this while the tank has water in it and the water level would be above where you want to attach the branch?

 

[X-37B]

Its doable. Best advice is to cut the branch rock on one side to make it flat so you have enough surface area for it to adhere to.

 

[Reefing_addiction]

I

I've got an established tank and am making a few small changes to my Aquascape. Just a little progression.

I'd like to glue a small chunk of branch rock to the overflow wall (It's a peninsula) to look like about 6-8" of branch rock is growing out of the glass.

Has anyone had any luck with getting an overhanging rock to actually stick to the back glass? If so, how?

Thanks!

The tank in question: HERE

I want that camera for my tank lol

 

[reefermadnes5]

Can you use magnets and glue that to the surface of rock? Ive seen magnetic frag rocks made like this.

 

[JayM]

That's gonna be tough to do when considering leverage. But if it were me, I'd probably consider draining the tank down to the level you want to attach to rock and make sure it's dry, use a good 2 part epoxy and get the attachment point of the rock as flat as you can. Probably need to rig up some sort of support until the epoxy cures as well.

 

[dakk50]

Just an idea... if you cant drain the tank to the level needed as mentioned above, you may be able to set up a harness type system with fishing line or something to support the majority of the weight until the adhesive you use cures against the glass

 

[Fasthandsslowmind]

What adhesive should I use? Can 2 part epoxy be used underwater?

For sure I’ll have to brace it while it cures.

 

[reefermadnes5]

What adhesive should I use? Can 2 part epoxy be used underwater?

For sure I’ll have to brace it while it cures.

There are a number of epoxies that cure underwater. But the challenge is getting it to stick to the glass. Maybe rough the surface slightly with fine sandpaper...but epoxy and glass is risky ime

 

[reefermadnes5]

It is doable. Just take every percaution.

 

[ArizonaReefer]

If I have a new tank would I be able just lay it on its side and use silicone to glue flat pieces like this to cover the back wall and let it set for a couple days

 

[ryanjohn1]

If I have a new tank would I be able just lay it on its side and use silicone to glue flat pieces like this to cover the back wall and let it set for a couple days

If it’s reef safe aquarium silicone. Don’t skip the research on whether it is. Be sure you would not want it leeching harmful chemicals

 

[ArizonaReefer]

Yes, basically the same silicone that they use to build tanks.

 

[reefermadnes5]

Think about long term cleaning. If you seal that to the glass do you have a plan for cleaning it? I know some frown on putting aquascape against the glass because it prevents cleaning. Also howdy neighbor. Im also an az reefer.

 

[ArizonaReefer]

I won’t want to clean it, I would hope for it to be covered in Coralline Alga over time.

My wife and I have a house in San Tan Valley, but currently working in Naples Florida.

Where about are you?

 

[ArizonaReefer]

 

[Justfebreezeit]

I used Silicone to affix a small rock to my back wall of my little peninsula. It worked really well.

My rock however was fairly small. About 4 inches hanging and a decent flat spot for good adhesion.

 

[Reefing_addiction]

Definitely need to see photos of before and after!!! I need ideas!!!

 

[rsp919]

I siliconed marco base rock(flat on 1 side) to acrylic panels. I scuffed the panels where the rock would be placed and they held great. I then superglued additional rock pieces to the base rock to make them extend up, down and straight out. One is over a foot out and it is very strong.

 

[reefermadnes5]

I won’t want to clean it, I would hope for it to be covered in Coralline Alga over time.

My wife and I have a house in San Tan Valley, but currently working in Naples Florida.

Where about are you?

Mesa. Been in AZ since the 80's!