DIY - Projects & Ideas • Drylok vs Quikrete?

[thatbb6]

So I just picked up a 75G yesterday for a good deal. I want to build a 3D BG but before I head out to HD, I just want to make sure a few things with you guys.

As I understand, the Drylok is easy to apply, more durable in the long run, and fine texture. The Quickcrete yellow (linked) is mixed with stones n gravel so it's more rough. I'm on a budget but I'm looking for something that has the same texture that the Drylok offers. Is there an alternative that is safe for fish?

http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/sto ... =100318478

[Floridagirl]

Try throwing sand on the drylock as it dries and use several coats, if you want a rougher look. I don't know of another alternative to drylok that works as well. Alos, Drylok doesn't have to cure like the quickcrete.

[thatbb6]

Try throwing sand on the drylock as it dries and use several coats, if you want a rougher look. I don't know of another alternative to drylok that works as well. Alos, Drylok doesn't have to cure like the quickcrete.

Isn't Drylok like $25/gal or something? I'm stretching my dollar so I picked up the Quikrete Mortar mix for $4.10 (www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-100318 ... Wc16MmAYsc). Will this work? I don't mind about the curing time.

[Floridagirl]

The quikrete will be fine. Most people don't like it as well because you lose detail, due to the thickness of the cement, and the time and water changes needed for it to cure.

[fusion]

i Only bought 1 quart of Drylok for mine, was $8 and change, im thinking it will be enough for my 55

Get the shop to tint it as you want it, its a freeby

[thatbb6]

i Only bought 1 quart of Drylok for mine, was $8 and change, im thinking it will be enough for my 55

Get the shop to tint it as you want it, its a freeby

Where did you buy yours at? I checked on HD and it was $25 so I didn't bother to look when I went to the store. If it's just $8 then I might as well do Drylok.

The quikrete will be fine. Most people don't like it as well because you lose detail, due to the thickness of the cement, and the time and water changes needed for it to cure.

How many days should I let the water sit? and how many changes? I don't have a water testing kit...

[Floridagirl]

Curing takes 3 days to a week. Some like to cure in Saltwater. Some say that the concrete continues to leach into the water, raising the ph. Thats why most have gone to Drylok.

[fusion]

Got it at home depot, $25 for a gallon is prolly right, i only bought a quart

[DanniGirl]

You can easily add texture by roughing up the background before the application of Drylok.
For curing Quikrete, daily water changes work well.
Out of both products, the Quikrete mortar mix will probably hold up longer. However, you can increase the longevity of Drylok by using a sealer such as Pond Armor or something similiar.

For ease, I would suggest Drylok for two reasons: ease of application and cure time. Another advantage of Drylok; should the background become damaged, it's a simple repair whereas you could be looking at days for a Quikrete repair.

[mightyevil]

I may be late to the party but some people are starting to use grout for aquarium backgrounds, there is the non-sanded and then there is the sanded kind. I am not sure how they are sealing it for aquarium use but it is an alternative. The grout way may be a little more expensive but I am guessing that it would be the most durable way to go too, though more expensive than Drylock and Cement.

Just throwing it out there!

[thatbb6]

Yikes, looks like I should go with something a little more expensive but have a peace of mind in the long run haha.
But I think I will stick with this Quikrete mortar mix since I'm on a budget. Drylok was a considerable option last week but since my computer died n needs repair, Drylok is off the table. I'll just pay extra attention to make sure it lasts.
Anyways, I'll create a build thread sometime this week once I get a hold of my camera.

[Floridagirl]

Lookin forward to seeing the results!

[thatbb6]

I tried the cement on a small panel and looks like it doesn't stick too well. Too avoid headache later on, I might as well go with Drylok. However, should I go with Drylok Extreme or Drylok Latex based? I see 2 kinds at HD.

[fusion]

I tried the cement on a small panel and looks like it doesn't stick too well. Too avoid headache later on, I might as well go with Drylok. However, should I go with Drylok Extreme or Drylok Latex based? I see 2 kinds at HD.

I got the Latex based 1, not sure about the extreme

[DanniGirl]

Use the latex based Drylok.

Good luck!