How can I make a fake rock background?

[shyfish]

Hi,
I have seen some really neat looking backgrounds that are used with lizard cages.
I like the way it looks. I have heard of some kind of foam that can be used to create fake rock and backgrounds for saltwater aquariums.
Can anyone tell me step by step how to create my own background? I want it to look narural with some ledges. Can it be painted, and if yes, what kind of paint would be safe?
Thanks so much for any help or ideas!

 

[shyfish]

Any body out there??

 

[florida joe]

Foam is a long and precise process but the results can be outstanding pm me your e-mail address

 

[king_neptune]

ya check out my reef build:
http://forums.saltwaterfish.com/t/349033/neptunes-125-reef-diary
Ill be covering how I built a foam background and you can see for yourself. Its a budding area in this hobby. But once word gets out you will see people raving about it.

 

[shyfish]

Hi,
Checked out you diary!
I am not that handy. I drill nothing!
I am glad you mentioned the ties go in the front. I would have tied them in the back! Little details like that are what make all the difference. Thank you!
I enjoyed your post, what a wonderful sense of humor!

 

[tank a holic]

http://forums.saltwaterfish.com/t/335216/foamback-project-101 try that one

 

[vinnyraptor]

Originally Posted by King_Neptune http:///forum/post/2943161
ya check out my reef build:
http://forums.saltwaterfish.com/t/349033/neptunes-125-reef-diary
Ill be covering how I built a foam background and you can see for yourself. Its a budding area in this hobby. But once word gets out you will see people raving about it.
DUDE! that is the coolest thing i've ever seen! my next tank im DEFINATELY doing it. i have a batch of portland cement mixed with argonite curing right now but wish i woulda saw this thread before i did it. i got the ph down and now i have it in salt water with a few pieces of LR. im trying to get some coraline on it before i put it in the DT.
fantastic job!

 

[shyfish]

Originally Posted by tank a holic http:///forum/post/2944389
http://forums.saltwaterfish.com/t/335216/foamback-project-101 try that one
Hi Tank a holic,
This is absolutly the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. It is exactly what I have been looking for.
Florida Joe offered his help as well. I will be gathering info. I am not yet ready to do my project. So I am still in the planning stage.
I hope you don't mind I copied out your "book" you should but it into print. I am telling you, your sitting on a gold mine. A how to book is not out there yet.
All the step by step you documented is so ripe for a book. Not to mention you could market doing this for a living or at the very least a second income!
Thank You sooo much for your reply!

 

[vinnyraptor]

Originally Posted by King_Neptune http:///forum/post/2943161
ya check out my reef build:
http://forums.saltwaterfish.com/t/349033/neptunes-125-reef-diary
Ill be covering how I built a foam background and you can see for yourself. Its a budding area in this hobby. But once word gets out you will see people raving about it.
i did and its awesome! i did the portland cement/sand thing with nice results but next time im doing the foam/rubble rock . i love the way you covered the power heads and overflow and made ledges on the back wall.