A couple of questions . . .

[thebluejackal]

I originally bought some larger-sized aquarium pebbles for the base layer of my upcoming vivarium build, but after doing a bit more research, I believe I'm going to take them back and go for some hydroton/hydroballs.

Where can you get them? Just online or do some common brick-and-mortar places have them?

Also, does anyone know a good supplier for dried bamboo? I know I could find some at a couple of local craft stores, but I'm worried about any chemicals that may have been used on it.

 

[Riverside Reptiles]

Usually the hydroballs can be found at high end nurseries or hydroponic shops. It may be easier to just order them online though.


I sell bamboo and bamboo leaf litter. I'm currently out of bamboo, but should be resupplied in the next couple weeks. Shoot me a PM if you're interested.

 

[thebluejackal]

Thanks for letting me know! I found an organic/indoor gardening place locally that has hydroton. Gonna get me a bag tomorrow!

Also, if I carve my own background piece of out florist foam, what would be best to coat it with? Regular tile grout?

 

[Yoshi'smom]

I would go to Lowes or Home Depot and just get a large sheet of extruded Insulating foam and use that instead. It's probably going to be cheaper than florist foam if you're going a little bigger. But that's up to you.
I coated mine with Sanded Tile Grout a few times and then cured it and then painted it. If you don't cure it you will need to waterproof it with a waterproof sealer.
Here's my page on my DIY viv for my leopard gecko's tank. It may help you.
http://www.geckosunlimited.com/community/do-yourself-diy/56312-new-leopard-gcko-terrarium.html
Good Luck!!

 

[thebluejackal]

Thanks, that helps me a LOT!

 

[Yoshi'smom]

No problem! It's a fun project! Post pictures when you get the tank all set up!

 

[thebluejackal]

Trust me, I'm going to take pictures each step of the way because I'm silly like that.

 

[For The Sake Of Revenge]

You can try permastone from activa to coat the foam, its suppose to be what "habacrete" is made out of. Hobbylobby sells it.

 

[thebluejackal]

Thanks for the additional tip! I already picked up some grout, though, and I'll be curing it per Yoshi'smom's instructions.

(I apparently type too fast for the forum's posting limitations).