PVC pipe/rock structures

[DKorbut]

Hi, I was wondering about using pvc pipe to create rock structures with.

I have seen some set ups use this methood. Can anyone give me some advice/tips on the best way to go about it? Thank-you for your help.

[justinl]

drill and zip ties. i think a lot of it depends on what kind of general structuring you're looking for. For example, there are pinnacles, islands, arches and overhangs, just to name a few. Personally Ive been interested of late in midwater suspended rock structues.

[DKorbut]

Is there a special type of zip ties to use or will any kind do? My idea is to create caves for the fish to hide in.

[spreerider]

make sure the zap straps are either stainless steel latch (the little thing that makes the clicking sound) or all plastic, some cheaper ones use a spring steel clip that will rust away,
also the white ones are not UV resistant black ones are so your lights wiill degrade them over time unless they are black.

[DKorbut]

Originally Posted by spreerider

make sure the zap straps are either stainless steel latch (the little thing that makes the clicking sound) or all plastic, some cheaper ones use a spring steel clip that will rust away,
also the white ones are not UV resistant black ones are so your lights wiill degrade them over time unless they are black.

Good to know, thank-you.

[justinl]

personally, I would stick witht he plastic ones. The black ones would probably be a bit less visible too rather than the stark white zip ties. Over time they would probably get covered in all sorts of sessile invertebrates and algae, so i don't think UV would be a problem.

[DKorbut]

Great ideas, Thank-you for adding pictures.

[Trigs]

What size pvc do yoy guys use?

[rocknroll]

I'm wondering about the glue used to hold the pvc together? any problems with it breaking down, or being in any way toxic to the tank?

[superduperwesman]

Originally Posted by rocknroll

I'm wondering about the glue used to hold the pvc together? any problems with it breaking down, or being in any way toxic to the tank?

Then I think we're all in trouble because I'm pretty sure most use PVC/PVC glue to plumb there tanks... only difference is the outside of the pipe is wet too... would you even need glue??