Friday, May 8, 2009

The construction

The background and the land area are constructed in 2 separate parts using eggcrate and zip ties. The reason for constructing in 2 separate parts is so that it can fit into the glass terrarium. The pump is located in the left lower back in a chute for easy maintenance access. the plastic pots are meant for deep rooted plants requiring good drainage such as neps, orchids, bromeliades. The plastic pots have drainage to the rear via the eggcrate. The black air tubes are the water drip distribution system routed to each pot and to some strategic points in the scape to let some water drip freely. Water drip hose tied to one of the branches. Intending to put some anubias and cover with moss.

Top view with better appreciation of the water pump chute and the water distribution system.

Waterfall constructed from granite slates and epoxy putty.

Rear view of the background.


Sprayed with expanding foam. Very messy to work with. It really expands to 3 times the original amount. Good idea to use disposable gloves!


The cut surface of the foam after curing.


The stone and wooden features are wrapped using 3M painter's tape to prevent the silicon sealant from getting onto them. The black silicon silicon is bought from a tank maker who used it for aquariums, so should be safe for the terrarium. Apply the black silicon in small parts as it will start to film over in minutes. tip: wear a pair of disposable gloves, use your right hand to hold the silicon gun and apply to the surface. Use your left hand to smear and spread the silicon evenly onto the surfaces. Once surface ready, put down your silicon gun and use your right hand to grab a handful of cocofibre and press it down onto the surface. Becareful to avoid touching the silicon with your right hand as you will want it relatively clean for the whole process.
Now wait for the silicon to cure in 2-3 days before touching up any parts you missed out.

2 comments:

  1. Hi, may I know where you obtained the expanding foam? Been looking for it unsuccessfully

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  2. mind share more detail about how you did the base?

    ReplyDelete