AquaScape Tricks and Tips

At this past

MACNA XXI 

We were honored to be asked to do a presentation on

Aquascaping with Dry Rock

here are some highlights, tips and tricks

Using PVC and zip Ties:

A very basic yet effective tecquniqe

Can be use to stand up rock or fasten one piece to another

Using Thread Rod:

Align base piece of rock on acrylic mounting plate.

Drill through rock scoring acrylic

Drill and tap base plate where marked

Screw a piece of nylon thread rod into the base and place rock over it. Once rock is in position cut the rod and tighten the nut down on it.

From here you can use a combination of rod (mounted in rock to bolt the next rock) and or

Using Motar:

a motar product. I use a BASF product called Emaco R400 with a polymer additive called Acryl 60 to help adhesion and make a more flexable joint

The R400 and Acryl 60 make bonding pieces together a breeze.

Be sure to wet the pieces with a water and Acryl mix to get optimum bonding. Use sand as a mold and support for intersting shapes and overhangs.

(I use aragonite sand and rubble rock wherever the motar mix is likely to touch and pick it up.)

Rubble rock and this mortar mix is also great for back walls and overflow box covers.

Once cycled and covered in coraline you'll not be able to see where natural begins and ends

Most Important of all:

Be Creative and

Have Fun With It !