Sand substrate

by **Biulu** Fri May 16, 2014 11:02 am

I had to empty my 20 gallon long as there was a suspected leak. Now that everything looks good again, I want to use the opportunity to change the capping substrate.

I have been using play sand but it is too fine and doesn't compact well. Each little bit of current causes sand dunes and after every water change my plants are covered in dust. My dwarf chain swords have trouble surviving as the moving sand chokes them.

I do want sand again as this tank will be holding cories but something with a larger granule size.

I have been looking at pool filter sand but it is 22 kgs for about 95 dollars and I don't need that much so it would be a lot of money sitting in the basement locker.

Anybody any ideas? Brand names are welcomed...

by l_l_l Fri May 16, 2014 11:16 am

Maybe you could try buying pool filter sand and split the bill with a few other hobbyists?
That's the only thing I can suggest! Razz

by sucker4plecos Fri May 16, 2014 12:34 pm

I would shop around...... I only pay $10 for a 40 lb bag around here and it's what most of us use.... you can also check for silica sand at Home Depot type stores...

by **Biulu** Fri May 16, 2014 12:44 pm

I think I will go to the shop as caoder bought from the same chain for a much better price. Maybe the girl didn't understand my French Crying or Very sad

by **hello_rockview12** Fri May 16, 2014 2:44 pm

I used black diamond blasting grit. It was under 10 dollars a bag and worked well to cap my dirt. I used 1.25 bags for my 75G. The only thing is it is black and you may not want it. It's also safe for cories.

by **guppyguy** Fri May 16, 2014 2:51 pm

There is definitely better prices. I have many bag from different source all around $10 to $12 for 50 pound bags. I would shop around. I bought all of mine at the actual pool stores. Cool