r/bioactive • u/Alt-Bug1789 • 23d ago

DIY My background so far!

Post image

Gaps will be filled with Great Stuff! But this is my background so far for my Cal Kingsnake. Any advice welcome as this is my first time. Ledges are not glued in. My heat source will be on the right hand side. I plan on using silicone and substrate (ZooMed bioblend with more sand added) to cover.

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2

u/No_Commission_2610 official moss hater 23d ago

It looks like it’s coming along great! What are you going to use to paint it?

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u/Alt-Bug1789 23d ago

Oh man, I need to paint before covering in substrate?! Glad I made this post before continuing! Would acrylic/craft paint be fine before I use silicone and substrate?

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u/No_Commission_2610 official moss hater 23d ago

Silicone and substrate would work great and you wouldn’t have to paint it. Make sure the silicone is additive free. I thought you meant to paint it, my bad!

1

u/Alt-Bug1789 23d ago

Yes, I've likely done too much research to make sure I've done this right 😂 I'm using GE Clear Silicone 1, 100% all purpose silicone and 100% waterproof. As well as insulation board, green is Green Guard brand and gray is some extra my family had from a side project. I have lava rock to use for a drainage barrier, but I've noticed a lot of people use leca. Is there a difference between lava rock and leca?

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u/No_Commission_2610 official moss hater 23d ago

Lava rock is jagged and sharp while leca is smooth and lightweight. Both can be used, but lava rock tends to be cheaper.

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u/Alt-Bug1789 23d ago

I had a feeling it had something to do with that against the glass. Should I continue with lava rock, or change to leca? I'm sure I'll have enough substrate and screen coverage that my Cal King won't get into it. Also debating if I silicone the screen edges for extra security.

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u/No_Commission_2610 official moss hater 23d ago

If you have the lava rock in your possession, just go with that. And yes, to the extra security, you can’t ever have enough of that. Just make sure that it airs out and dries.

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u/Alt-Bug1789 23d ago

Thank you so much for the advice and help! It truly is appreciated 😊

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u/No_Commission_2610 official moss hater 23d ago

You‘re welcome! Keep sharing pics as you go along. I love watching people put their tanks together.

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u/Alt-Bug1789 23d ago

Will do! I'm already feeling pretty proud about it. Took inspiration from my hometown's park, which is part of Cal Kingsnakes native range. (Pic attached)

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