Rescaping an established tank

[Mastiffsrule]

Good day all,

Was thinking about redoing the rock in my 10 year old 180.

I have a few ideas, but wanted some other opinions to make sure I cover all the angles.

My concerns:
1. corals have grown over multiple pieces, most corals are encrusted so I can only remove a few pieces and have to cut the rest.
2. Who knows what is laying under the rock and behind in low flow areas. Worried about spikes in chemistry and disturbing any life or unwelcome creatures.
3. Not crushing shrimp, crabs and other things.
4. Try to get some open rock for new frags. Would require cuttin off palys or turning the rock over. Worried about toxins either way.

Plans:

1, move all the rock to a tub, vacuum and major wate change and then redo.
2, move all the rock to a corner of the tank and then do the rescaping.
3. Leave the base, take the top off, slide the base around to desired position and rebuild from there.

Thoughts and suggestions welcomed . Thanks

 

[SeahorseKeeper]

I would consider adding beneficial bacteria like Bio Spira and Seachem ammonia alert badge. My concern is a spike in ammonia when the sand bed is disturbed. Also, have plenty of ready to go saltwater to do water changes afterwards.

 

[piranhaman00]

How did this go?

Anyone re scape established tanks?

 

[frank10]

I've been re-scaping my refugium with low to moderate success. I'm considering redoing my display.

 

[Mastiffsrule]

Hey @frank10

Just saw this. Old thread. I actually redid ,I’ve and very happy. Let us know if you want to run anything by .