I am converting an exo terra 24x18x24 into a Paludarium with the bottom 5 inches an cave aquarium and the top 19 inches as a vivarium with timed misting system.

Instead of creating fake natural rock walls, I am using foam to create Mayan structures as my side and backwalls; however, the aquarium below will provide me with the water that will be used to create an aqueduct system running from the top right to the front left of the aquarium ending in a waterfall back into a small 5.5 in x 5.5 in opening in the front left corner.

I plan on creating step by step instructions on my progress to be posted as one completed project in one succinct post so others can see exactly how I did it without too much reading.

I have a couple questions that I have not been able to find clear cut answers to in a large number of forums I have been to. I would appreciate any help. I am going to be putting a ton of detail into the Mayan structures so I would really like to get this right on the first try. I am building the structures tiny foam brick by tiny foam brick at a time.

Waterproof and toxicity are my major concerns because of the waterfall and misting system.

1. If I used colored grout to cover the foam, what are a few and which are the best WATERPROOF coatings?

2. Is there a better product to use than grout?
2a. If so, how can i make it waterproof?

Thank you, in advance.

you could always you aquarium silicone. If you do this make sure you get the stuff made for aquariums. Other silicones are not made to be submersed in water and will become toxic.

__________________

Would the aquarium silicone be visible if it was coating all of my walls?

Check out this link to see if it gives you some ideas.
DIY - Aquarium Background

__________________
Mike
"Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always start with the person nearest you."

Seeing that I'm actually building mayan structures, actual concrete would be ideal; however, in your research, do you believe these items to be safe for anole lizards?

if its not totally submerged, a clear epoxy is the way to go.

I would do some research in various Aquarium forums.

__________________
My name is Liz
Do what's best for the animal, not what's best for you.

I am creating various temples and other structures from Incan/Mayan civilization with many details for my lizards to climb on. I really want to get my coatings right the first go around. I am going to be cutting my foam into small square blocks to build these structures' facades. I will also be using great stuff in the areas where their will be portions of destroyed ruins and rubble.

I really don't want to "experiment" with this project.


When you say a clear epoxy is the way to go, would you recommend foam coated with grout and then coated with epoxy?

If so, could you please recommend an epoxy brand name?

fire2225ems, kriminaal, & schlegelbagel thank you very much for your assistance so far. I will be cutting my foam into blocks today. My tank will arrive this Saturday so I can begin taking photos and creating the bottom cave aquarium layer. Photos will certainly be posted once the project is fully completed.
__________________________________________________ ____
The grooves where water will always be flowing will be top coated with aquarium sealant.

So far my options are as follows:

Option 1: foam/grout(multiple colors available)/epoxy

Option 2: Foam/Quikrete Mason Mix Cement with Acrylic Fortifier/concrete paint

First, aquarium silicone is clear, so no worries on that.

West Systems epoxy is what i have been told to use. Note, i have never used it since I don't have a water feature like that.

I have heard of the foam/grout being used the most. You can tint it with any water based craft paint into various colors, or add color directly to it while it is drying. You can also mix in an acrylic additive to help it along.

So yes, foam --> grout/paint --> epoxy

__________________
My name is Liz
Do what's best for the animal, not what's best for you.

Anything that is submerged you will need to epoxy, and thoroughly for it too last.

__________________
Mike
"Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always start with the person nearest you."

My tank was expected to arrive on Wednesday of next week, however, fedex says its going to be here today. I have started cutting the foam with my soldering iron today. The soldering iron will allow me to make more precise cuts. After all cuts are done I think I'll use a hotgun to get rid of any corners on the foam. This will give it more of a ruinous look instead of fresh rock cut from the mountains. So the mayan laborers and slaves are out cutting the rock.

I'll post pictures and procedures when I'm done. Thank you for your help guys. Even though this is just a 24x18x24 tank, this puppy is going to be great.

I've found a few fish for the cave aquarium below that are naturally blind. Both catfish and normal fish.