I was able to complete the three main rock scapes and get them into the tank along with sand. I will be adding a little more rock to the final layout. I have some pieces from my 20 long that are live that will be used to seed the new stuff. I plan on placing a smaller rock scape in the front center along with 2 smaller pillars in between the center scape and the end rock scapes. These scapes will be set back from the rest to give the tank a little more dimension. All in all, between display and sump, I should end up with 100lbs or rock.
I did alot of research on what sand to use. I ended up finding that people have been using Pavestone High Desert Play sand from HD with no issues. I picked up 200lbs - approx 160lbs in the display and 40 lbs in my refugium chamber of the sump. Before I added anything I ran the vinegar test and within second the sand started to bubble like crazy so it was good to go. Gave it a quick rinse and in it went. I ended up with about a 3" sand bed. I wanted to go 4" but I did not want to block the lower flow holes of the overflow chambers.
I am very pleased with the color and the texture of this sand and for the price I made it even better, 200lbs for $25.
And the now the filling begins. It will take a me a few days to get the tank filled. My RO/DI only empties into a 20gallon brute. So right now there is only approx 20 gallons water.
I did alot of research on what sand to use. I ended up finding that people have been using Pavestone High Desert Play sand from HD with no issues. I picked up 200lbs - approx 160lbs in the display and 40 lbs in my refugium chamber of the sump. Before I added anything I ran the vinegar test and within second the sand started to bubble like crazy so it was good to go. Gave it a quick rinse and in it went. I ended up with about a 3" sand bed. I wanted to go 4" but I did not want to block the lower flow holes of the overflow chambers.
I am very pleased with the color and the texture of this sand and for the price I made it even better, 200lbs for $25.
And the now the filling begins. It will take a me a few days to get the tank filled. My RO/DI only empties into a 20gallon brute. So right now there is only approx 20 gallons water.