Question About Using HDPE for Substrate

[Nick Kohrn]

Hello everyone!

 

Firstly, I want to state that I created a new account (formerly nickkohrn) because all of my other online presences are known by my corresponding username here, and I want a unified username.

 

I have a question regarding using HDPE instead of sand, specifically when it comes to the maintenance routine. It's well-known that there are plenty of pros and cons to using HDPE instead of sand, which is why I have a specific question about the maintenance of using it.

 

I just bought a sheet of 24" x 48" x 1/4" HDPE, and I had it cut so that I was able to get two 11" x 11" x 1/4" sheets pieces and the scrap pieces. I want to pass on using sand since I tend to move regularly, and this will help me tremendously with maintenance.

I had two pieces cut because I would like to switch the in-use piece of HDPE out each week during maintenance. This shouldn't be a problem because I have an Innovative Marine 10-Gallon NUVO Fusion aquarium, which is pretty small. I plan on creating a pillared aquascape when my Bulk Reef Supply Reef Saver Rock comes in this week, which implies that I should be able to just lift the rock structure out of the tank, set it into a bucket with the water that I remove from the tank, and then replace the HDPE after siphoning out any detritus. Easy, right?!

Also, I love coralline, but only on the rocks. This will allow me to scrape any growth off of the replaced HDPE sheet piece maintenance. This brings me to the reason for my question:

I realize that I will get an accumulation of detritus underneath the in-use piece, and so I have thought about the fact that most people recommend the HDPE to be siliconed to the bottom of the tank. However, since I will be replacing it weekly I don't feel the need to silicone it to the bottom, which allows me the freedom to clean and replace the piece.

My question is then, do you see any issues that I may potentially face in the future by setting up my tank in this manner?

Thanks so much!

[seabass]

I don't see a problem in doing what you propose. You'll just have to clean the bottom when the panel is removed. Also, you don't want it super tight or possible expansion might compromise your tank (a small 1/16" gap will make it easier to remove as well).

 

I've considered adding a white panel to the bottom (with silicone around the edges to prevent anything getting under it) to the bottom of a tank. But then, adding a thin layer of sand over it. I really like the look of sand, but if it's too thin, you usually end up seeing the bottom of the tank. This way, I'd be able to have that natural look, while having a thin layer of sand that's easier to keep clean. Plus, the sand will help prevent coralline from growing on the panel.

[nickkohrn]

I don't see a problem in doing what you propose. You'll just have to clean the bottom when the panel is removed. Also, you don't want it super tight or possible expansion might compromise your tank (a small 1/16" gap will make it easier to remove as well).

 

I've considered adding a white panel to the bottom (with silicone around the edges to prevent anything getting under it) to the bottom of a tank. But then, adding a thin layer of sand over it. I really like the look of sand, but if it's too thin, you usually end up seeing the bottom of the tank. This way, I'd be able to have that natural look, while having a thin layer of sand that's easier to keep clean. Plus, the sand will help prevent coralline from growing on the panel.

Thanks, seabass.

 

I have about a 1/4" clearance between the HDPE and glass sides of the tank. That should help with removal and any possible expansion.

 

I agree that sand looks better, but I've seen some tanks that use HDPE and look like gorgeous works of art. I'm also of the thought that if maintenance is easier, then I am more likely to stay on top of it. Hopefully the HDPE will make moving the tank easier as anticipated in the near future.

[seabass]

Sounds good. It will definitely be easier to move than a tank with sand.