D.I.Y Slate Caves

[sharle66]

Hello everyone,

This is my first post on this forum (have been a member to a different site for years but wanted a change of scenery).

Here are a few pictures of my first attempt at making slate caves. They will be added to my new 30gal tank which is currently mid-way through it's cycling process. I have been running the new filter in my established 20gal for 3 weeks. I put the filter into the tank on Friday and added the new filter and fine gravel substrate. I am keeping my eye open for some decent bog wood locally but no luck as of yet. I am in no rush to speed up the process (IMO the chemicals/ so-called filter starts appear to have short term success and long term instability) I am testing the water every 3 days and changing 10% of tank water every other day.

Regards, Sam.

 

[skjl47]

Hello; I have done similar things. One way to cover edges and/or other unsightly surfaces is to spread some silicone on the surface and drop some of the gravel/sand substrate onto the silicone while still uncured and sticky. Everything needs to be very dry for this to work. I have done this to hide the edges and surfaces of glass as well. Allow the silicone to cure well before moving much.

 

[sharle66]

One way to cover edges and/or other unsightly surfaces is to spread some silicone on the surface and drop some of the gravel/sand substrate onto the silicone while still uncured and sticky.

Thank you very much that is definitely something that i shall consider. I managed to pick up two perfect pieces of bogwood from my lfs. One will be perfect at hiding the filter the second shall be more of a centre piece. I have given them a good scrub and are currently soaking. I imagine it may take roughly a week (or two) for the bogwood to be ready for the tank.