Setting up new tank/building rock formation

[Jonathan blackwood]

I am starting a new reef tank and will be building/stacking/molding dry live rock to create formation I want. Is there a "reef safe" molding clay or cement or epoxy I can use from your local home depot or lowes?? Instead of buying the reef approved stuff online. .

 

[Wicked5oh]

I used waterweld. From Home Depot. Will set up under water.

 

[Jonathan blackwood]

Non toxic,?? I'm assuming it's reef and fish safe?

 

[Wicked5oh]

I can't find where I read it, but I believe so. Can be used in or outside of water. I only used it in a few spots to keep things stable. I want to be able to remove all my rock In the event I have to move, but that was just me.

I would suggest building it with no sand or water in tank. Get your self a cut out of cardboard same size as bottom of tank. Drill some holes and use the acrylic rods to hold sculpture together. Then place rock work in tank. Sand around the rock will help stabilize the rock work.

 

[PaReeferJ]

I can't find where I read it, but I believe so. Can be used in or outside of water. I only used it in a few spots to keep things stable. I want to be able to remove all my rock In the event I have to move, but that was just me.

I would suggest building it with no sand or water in tank. Get your self a cut out of cardboard same size as bottom of tank. Drill some holes and use the acrylic rods to hold sculpture together. Then place rock work in tank. Sand around the rock will help stabilize the rock work.

Mine is held together with acrylic rods. Just drill holes and insert rod...Done.

 

[zach_discus]

I used hydraulic cement from Lowes, very strong and will hold very creative structures together with ease. Marco Rocks sell basically the same stuff.

 

[vertigo01]

I used quikrete hydraulc cement to make my rockscap. Set's up quick and has a tenacious bond.
I wouldn't scape underwater just for the fact that it will cloud things up and it's easier to scape outside of the tank.

 

[Jonathan blackwood]

Awesome! Thanks, will be grabbing done shortly after work !

 

[Atlantisdelux]

Sorry to bring up an old post but I can't find the answer anywhere. Did you HAVE to soak your rocks after using the hydraulic cement? I know people say to soak them and check for leaching, but I haven't heard if anyone had found issues in their soaking water.