sandbed

[Hamp]

I am setting up a new tank and would really like to have a fine sand sandbed. I am broke, so was thinking of home depot sand. Anyone used this? Also how deep would you recommend, I was thinking 3". How long should I let this cycle in my tank before adding anything? Will I have a substantial diatom bloom with the new silicates?

[princer7]

I am setting up a new tank and would really like to have a fine sand sandbed. I am broke, so was thinking of home depot sand. Anyone used this? Also how deep would you recommend, I was thinking 3". How long should I let this cycle in my tank before adding anything? Will I have a substantial diatom bloom with the new silicates?

I would not use Home Depot Sand. It is silicate based vs. aragonite based - more algae and no beneficial properties.

[Robb in Austin]

You could go with pulverized limestone. I got mine at Lowe's, it's made by Pavestone. Comes in a tan bag with blue lettering.

It is very fine grained, almost powder, which is a drawback when it comes to flow. Cheap though. And it looks nice I think.

That said, I don't think I would use it again if I setup another tank.

[Hamp]

why wouldnt you use it again Robb?

[Hamp]

Also, can I put in right before I transfer my livestock?

[Robb in Austin]

My main concern is it is too fine. Any movement stirs it up. It settles quickly at least.

It has a nice off white with a hint of grey color to it so it looks great. I just wish it was a little bit bigger in grain size.

It comes in 50# bags. I used about 3/4 of one in my 58g and it provided a 1.5" or so deep bed.

As far as putting it in before livestock, yes you should. And rinse it. A bunch. Like 8000 times. And then rinse some more.

I had to run a powerhead, with the output wrapped in pantyhose that was stuffed with poly batting, along with a Aquaclear 110

filled with more batting to clear the dust storm. It took 3 or 4 days for it to clear nicely.

[+mcallahan]

My main concern is it is too fine. Any movement stirs it up. It settles quickly at least.

It has a nice off white with a hint of grey color to it so it looks great. I just wish it was a little bit bigger in grain size.

It comes in 50# bags. I used about 3/4 of one in my 58g and it provided a 1.5" or so deep bed.

As far as putting it in before livestock, yes you should. And rinse it. A bunch. Like 8000 times. And then rinse some more.

I had to run a powerhead, with the output wrapped in pantyhose that was stuffed with poly batting, along with a Aquaclear 110

filled with more batting to clear the dust storm. It took 3 or 4 days for it to clear nicely.

I'd recommend rinsing it at least as much as above, then spread it out on a tarp, etc so that the sun can hit it and dry it out.

[caferacermike]

Hamp, let's try to get together Weds afternoon. I've got plenty of sand available.

Let's knock out that sump as well.

[Hamp]

I would really appreciate that Mike. That blue ring is amazing, by the way!

[texmexbigspring]

Does anyone know were I can find pulverized limestone in the austin area? I have tryed lowes and HD in my area and have not had any luck. Thanks