DIY background

some tasa member could make a lot of money making these to specs.

 

something else i'm thinking of trying.about how long will one of these last in the tank,isnt cement porous?

 

I'm also in the process of making my DIY background. A suggestion I saw on the web (youtube) was to use grout sealer over the cement. The guy just sprayed it on with a spray bottle...2 coats. The water just beads right off.

 

I was all set to get started,knew what i had to get to get going so off i go Builders(i'm thinking one stop shopping)and all they had was a sheet of styrofoam 2440x1220x25 for R140.so i changed my mind.

 

I bought a sheet of 15mm at Builders for like R68, had them cut it in half for me so I could transport it. Needed some for the base of my tank too, but otherwise it might be too much. I created layers, as per this guy http://www.youtube.com/user/MudinRebels . A bit more effort, but it's looking good.

 

i could have lived with R68 but that was to much for something i use to throw away(kicking myself now).you got pics?

 

I also thought of all the used polystyrene, but liked the idea of starting from scratch & designing the shape myself. I unfortunately didn't take step by step photos (pretty much followed the YouTube link), but I'll take a shot of the almost completed version this evening. I've got 2 layers of cement on already, still considering a 3rd to smooth things out a bit. Got some funky spray paint that gives you a stone-like finish (pricey, so I hope it turns out well). Then just need to spray it with grout sealer to waterproof it. Don't know how that will affect the acidity, but it seems to be OK (as per the videos).

 

cant wait to see.what cement did you use?

 

Hey Guys

If you're interested - I documented the majority of my DIY background process with prices and techniques include. Have a look. (Pic Heavy)

http://www.tropicalaquarium.co.za/showthread.php?6183-Ryan-J-s-Amano-Style-Tank

Not stealing the thread here, just wana make other options of info available. Im not sure about the grout sealer method aswell. But a good soaking should clean everything out.
My DIY BG is soaking now for about 2 weeks!!

Cheers

 

No problem. The more information we all have, the better for everyone! I don't know if I can wait another month for this tank to be finished though! Oh well, learning patience as I go.

Just some regular building cement from the local hardware. Didn't check for specifics.

 

i wanna try that hobby cement you just paint on crox something