megamax42

Apparently the glaze is back-ordered , so I'm currently trying to see if I want to cancel the order and buy something else, I know I've said this many times before but any advice on sealant is very much appreciated, looking for a paint-on epoxy/sealer that will withstand constant submersion.

Gordonrichards

Check marine grade stuff?

-G

megamax42

I was searching for that however I found nothing in local hardware stores, there was quite a few options online, but nothing at a reasonable price. I actually meant to update this thread however, I finally found something (for the billionth time), and ordered a gallon of it:
hytechsales.com/prod50.html

aceisback

Like your project. I am planning a similar type of setup in my other tank I will be setting up.

I have seen Drylok mentioned on several websites as an appropriate sealer. I am going to be trying it on my next Paludarium project.

http://www.ugl.com/drylokMasonry/mas...ofer/latex.php

Supposed to be non-toxic and is readily available at Lowe's and other hardware stores.

Would be interested to know if anyone here has used it though.

megamax42

Thanks! I was actually highly considering drylok at one point but the hardware stores around me never had the kind I was looking for.

The sealer I ordered finally came in though! Also did some experimenting with coco fiber and grout last night.

YouTube Video

aceisback

Like how the stuff looks in the video.

How are you liking the grout and coconut fiber?

I was wondering about using grout, but I was not sure if it had to be cured like cement to prevent pH issues in the underwater parts. I want to avoid having to soak anything for a few weeks and having to do water changes until the pH stabilizes. I have my drylok, but am waiting on getting the coloring for it. I will probably still put a thin layer of silicone sealant on the water portion of my DIY rock formations.

megamax42

I'm really digging the look it gives the tank, it's exactly what I was going for. The goal is a muddy riverbank with 'dead roots' sticking out the side. The one thing to be wary of is ensuring the great stuff, or whatever you use as a base, has a rough enough surface for the grout to properly adhere to. I've noticed it flaking off in a couple places so I sanded the area, regrouted and now it's doing much better. I also intend to cover the entire tank with the sealer I bought to ensure the grout won't affect the water chemistry, as well as more permanently seal in the grout. At first I was wary of the glossy look it would give the sides but I'm hoping it will make it look wet, meeting the goal of the muddy riverbank, as the grout as-is looks more like a dried up riverbank.

aceisback

What kind of grout did you choose. I only have a Lowe's and Menard's in my area and I will be looking to get some material here soon to start my next tank setup.

megamax42

I believe it's quikrete mortar mix, with quikrete cement dye for coloring.

Gordonrichards

updates?