How To Build Rock Features For Your Reptile Enclosure: A step-by-step guide!
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- čas přidán 30. 07. 2024
- Are you wanting to transform your reptile enclosure? Then this video is for you!
Shannon from Reptile Way will walk you through every step you need to know when it comes to creating natural rock features for your reptile enclosure.
This type of DIY build will provide a lot of enrichment for your scaly pet and therefore improving its quality of life.
This build is built with reptile friendly building materials and is great for a variety of snakes and lizards.
We hope this video is useful! If so hit the thumbs up button and subscribe for future content. See you next time!
For anyone searching this type of video. Make sure to use hot cutters or silicone in a well ventilated area. Fumes can cause damage to your body.
Thanks for that, very important advice!
That Sika expanding foam actually says it's carcinogenic on the tube, hence gloves provided. MOST importantly, a face/respiratory mask 😷...
By far the best video on this process. Thanks so much for posting!
I just used your 2 diy reptile cave videos to build my bearded dragon a really cool 4'(120cm) wide rock feature. Your videos are so well done, I must have watched them over 100 times going through each stage of the build. Thank you for taking the time to record, edit, voice over, and create these videos. A big thank you from Ontario, Canada!
Thanks so much for your comment. I'm soo glad the videos proved useful. Well done on your build and goodluck for your future builds!
That belongs in a museum! What a work of art!
Thanks for the kind words 🙏
I really very much appreciate that you put a list of materials used. Plus you showed them on screen. I want to build a custom background.
No worries. Soo glad the video helped! Goodluck with you build 😊
Wow. Amazing.
Thanks 😊 🙏
I have a genuine question, do you have another channel or do you do public speaking and videography? This channel just seem so professional, the video quality, Voiceovers, content, and pretty much everything is outstanding! Normally channels with little subscribers have weird videos and sound quality not to mention the uninteresting content, this channel just skips all the unprofessional junk and it’s like it’s been going for years! Hope you get more subs, I’ll be trying to get more people to support your amazing channel, good luck!!!!!!
Thanks soo much for all that positive feedback!
This is the first channel I've ever done, first time making videos.
I researched how to use a proper video camera, how to edit and how to make CZcams videos and content.
Still learning and still striving to make better quality videos and content.
Thanks again for the kind words 🙏
I just have one recommendation, you should change the channel logo, it’s just thin text and it’s not very appealing. I don’t mean to rude but just a word of advice, I would make it something creative, like you can use a letter and shape it in a way that looks like a reptile or something of the sort. If you would like I could design it for you, I’d like to support this channel in any way I can and I do love art!
@@nightmareplayz-bsgameplay7529 Thanks for the constructive feedback, we will definitely take it on board 🙏
I love this piece!!! And your video thank you.
Masterfully done! Wow. 🔥
Thanks for taking the time to comment and the kind words 🙏 😊
Wow 😮 you are amazing 👏🏼
Thanks for the kind words 🙏 😊
So talented, organized and fun! Thank you 🙏🏼😃
Thanks for the kind words and supporting the channel 😀 🙏
This is so great. I watch a LOT of videos and this is one of the best I’ve seen. Clearly see the artist in you.
Awww thanks soo much for the kind words 🙏 There will be lots more videos to come 😀
Wow! You are so very talented! The structure is beautiful!
Thanks soo much for the kind words!🥰
Tiz a thing of beauty..🏴
Thanks for the kind words ☺️ 🙏
Another great video!
Thanks soo much for watching our videos & for the positive feedback, this really helps us out as we are a new channel!
Fantastic job!! That came out awesome!
Thanks soo much for the kind words 🤗🙏
THAT is amazing! TY
No worries! 😁 🙏
You did an amazing job!
Thanks soo much for the positive feedback 😊 There will be another build video coming out shortly too!
I'm amazed at your attention to detail. It looks fantastic. Now I want to make one for my Leo!
Thanks soo much for the kind words!
It's definitely a fun DIY project 😊
Very cool build and I plan to make one for my snake...I know he would love it! Thank you for all the info! Great video!
No worries, in soo glad you liked the video. It's great to hear that people like yourself are willing to put in a bit of elbow grease to improve the life of their scaly pet. Great stuff 👏 👍
AWESOME!!
Thanks!
This is awesome! thank you for this
No worries, glad you enjoyed the video 😀
I love this. ❤
Thanks for taking the time to comment and for the kind words 😊 🙏
LOVE IT!
I have a 30 gallon euro style terrarium that I'm starting to decorate. I plan on using foam and foam.
The design is great seperated like that. I didn't consider doing it in a matched set. But I am now. Great work!
Thanks! Glad the video helped! Goodluck with your build 🙂
I love this video!!
Thanks for the great feedback! If you like this video i think you might like our most recent video, Converting A Wardrobe Into A Giant Snake Enclosure! Feel free to check it out. Thanks for supporting the channel 🙏
Awesome build!!!!😃🤙🏼🏆
Thanks 😊🙏
Love this video,, I’m looking to make my own custom viv for my lil spicy noodle, for the fist time , can’t wait
Thanks for the kind words. Goodluck with your build!
Amazing ! Thank you for the step by step guide. I want to updgrade my ball python to a bigger enclosure and this is what I was looking for!
No worries! So glad the video helped. Happy building 🙂🙏
Awesome
Thanks 😊🙏
Awesome video
Thanks for the kind words 🙏 😊
First time here!
Firstly great video, it’s good seeing a Australian channel that also shows what they use as it makes it very easy to see what I need while at bunnings
Thanks soo much for taking the time to comment and for the feedback!
Another build video you may enjoy is the link below, whereby we show you how to make an entire build from scratch with minimal tools and of of course, sourcing materials from Bunnings:
czcams.com/video/XnrMm2BZnGw/video.htmlsi=p7JbFUlaSFjA4nP5
Happy Building!
I have a rat and corn came looking for ideas to change up their homes i wasn't disappointed you did an amazing job
Thanks so much for the kind words, glad the video proved useful. Goodluck with your build! ☺️
This is the best tutorial
Thanks very much for the kind words! I'm glad it was useful 🤗
I have just made a foam background for my 90 x 90 x 45 paludarium but decided I would not use the expanded foam as it was a lot messier than just carving with a foam hot wire. It has a waterfall running across but I have had lots of problems sealing it but it was my first and if I was to make another I will not be so ambitious and try and incorporate a ready-made waterfall. But I learned all my information from youtube videos made by you and other artists that put their time in, on here to teach others the tricks and tips so thank you very much, I look forward to your next tutorial.
Thanks soo much for taking the time to comment. This comment is great for others to learn off, as you've revealed some of the challenges and alterations you have made. It's a great joy to read about people's DIY projects, so thanks again for taking the time to share 😀
Goodluck with your future builds!
Just found you last night and Ive been sat here all morning watching your tutorials. I really hope you make more soon! You gave a couple pieces of advice that I thought were BRILLIANT!! "After you're done carving, sit and think about it for a couple days.". That is so much very good advice. When I started, I would hurry up and get through the build and then hate like, three key components. Of course they would be small, support pieces and if I moved them I would have to start over. So a few of my enclosures get dirty looks when I walk by. I also really love the bifurcating the piece in case you can't fit it. Really well done.
Anyhoo...I think you're the bee's knees! And, as the human of a Halmahera Indo BTS, your Onyx is GORGEOUS! Now I'm off to research if Davco is any different from compounds here in the States.
Thank you SO much for the instructions and the inspo. Really hope to see more content in the future.
Regards,
Laura
Awww thanks soo much for the kind words Laura 😊🙏
I'm so glad the videos are helping!
Yes I am planning to release more videos, we have a couple of big videos in the works 😊
Thanks again for supporting the channel.
If you can't get Davco over there, go with Drylok. Make sure it's the plain/basic/original one. Other forms of Drylok like the extreme are toxic for reptiles.
@ReptileWay That's the general consensus. While I, of course, want to be safe, that stuff is PRICEY! I've actually been using non sanded grout mixed with excavator clay. The clay alone if I have time to let it dry. With the grout to color and if I need an enclosure ASAP. I've used 307 lite , a 2 part epoxy from a company named Polygem. The mixing of the 2 compounds renders them inert and several well-respected zoos use then in their enclosures.
Omg! Bunnings does have xps foam boards! I searched their site so many times with no luck. I’ve asked in store…. Thank you so much for motivating me to check again. I don’t know if they just started carrying it again or what but for aussies out there, they currently have it 🤗
That's tricky to answer. I've still been hearing alot of Bunnings is out of those foam boards and I think they might be discontinuing it.
However, a friend of mine who builds recommend this product:
Foilboard 25 x 2400 x 1200mm Cathedral 25 Insulation
Here's a link to the product:
www.bunnings.com.au/foilboard-25-x-2400-x-1200mm-cathedral-25-insulation_p0125959?store=6437&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA9ourBhAVEiwA3L5RFg-olbcsY1CNuFcnGLjGd7LMPi_aUEYO4M04qSVQI5KmNH9WJ8hjXxoCJGIQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
You just peel the foil off and this can be carved and used for builds. I've bought some myself and now do my builds using this. I think this is the product I used. But go to the insulation section in bunnings and there are these big white polystyrene boards that have a layer of foil stuck to the outside. You just peel the stuck foil off and get building!
Hope this helps!
I’m excited to use this video as a guide for my new 4’x2’x2’ terrarium for my ball python. I live in the US so I don’t know if you know about Prism grout. I tile a lot of bathrooms for work and we use it. It’s a high performance cement grout that doesn’t require any sealing! Amazing stuff but it’s about $40 a bag. I’ll use it for both bottom rock work and upper shelves.
Soo glad the video was useful. Thanks for mentioning prism grout, I'm sure that will help quite a few of the US viewers 😀 🙏
Did you do all of the grout layers at once and carved before it dried? I did 4 layers and let dry between each and could not carve (it was too hard). I really liked what I created, but had to work with my original carving of the foams.
Im doing an arboreal enclosure and Iam going to be using a twisting dragon as the centerpiece. Both hide the misting/dripper/fogger systems in the center (so it looks like everything is coming out the mouth and my reservoirs will be underneath the enclosure up through the bottom of the dragon) and so i can have places to anchor branches and foilage beyond just attaching them to the side of the enclosure because i really hate the appearence of everything coming from the walls/ceiling/floor and hanging plants tend to dry out quick.
What advice would you have for making things accessible for ease of replacing damaged/old or cleaning? I was thinking of using a pcp pipe to thread the tubing through. But how could i make the reservoir accessible? It is a mesh enclosure so would it just be easiest to have a small hole in the bottom? I intend to make it fully bioactive so i dont really want soil or water leaking out the bottom either. Or worse, lose my cleanup crew. But if i stick the dragon to the base of the enclosure how do i keep it clean then.
Damn you are a good artist no cap
Thanks for the kind words 🙏 I love that it's functional art 🤗
@@ReptileWay no problemo amigo
You got yourself your 556th subscriber.. definitely professional and I enjoyed this video. I'm not even making anything I just randomly scrolled and found this video 🤣 but now I know what to do thank you
Awww thanks for this delightful for message and helping out the channel by subscribing! We have a huge build coming out tomorrow so stay tuned 🤗🙏
@@ReptileWay I most definitely will and you are welcome 😁 I need to go to sleep it's 4:36am in the East Coast of the U.s. 🤣 thanks again
@@pitztoplawncare6781 no worries! Thanks again for the kind words 🙏
Seems that Bunnings don’t stock the foam board anymore! Any idea where you’ll go to get more for your next builds?
From America here, I’m trying to find an alternative to Crommelin Waterproof sealant because that brand doesn’t seem available in the states. What else could I use that’s animal safe?
Looks great! I had good success, tinting my mortar with acrylic paint and paint concentrates. I also sealed my grout with a layer of epoxy, which soaked into the grout and sealed it like a solid piece of plastic, yet with texture. Very happy with the results!
Great technique! I'm soo glad you've liked how your build(s) have turned out. I'm sure your scaly pets appreciate it!
@@ReptileWay Thank you! My background is quite large. 2 m x 1 1/2 m x 1 1/2 m. And I had to do some careful planning around a water feature and pool. I’m still working on the documentation on this, but here’s a clip that was done while I was sealing the water path:
czcams.com/video/fAopizts4tg/video.html
@@SwissFrogGuy wow that looks great and natural! I'll be putting that in my inspiration bank! Thanks for sharing. Great design 👌 👏
@@ReptileWay Thanks! There's so much more to it. Its been so inspirational to see what others have done. Now I'm just trying to give back a bit! :) Subscribed to your channel.
@swissfrogguyV1 it is definitely great to take inspiration from others! I'm sure the link you shared in the comments will help others 😊
Thanks for subscribing and supporting the channel, it's greatly appreciated 🙏
What type of knife do you recommend for carving, I don't have a hot wire foam cutter and am looking for specific recommendations
Hi is this easy to clean? Does any of the colors come off with cleaning?
How long does the grouting take you?I just finished my first layer. My plan was to let it cure completely and then do another layer.
Wow! That's a stunning piece of reptile furniture! How long did this take you to make?
Thanks! It took about 3 to 4 weeks 🙂
What are you using to carve out foam the first time round what tools? Looks Incredible
It's a hot wire cutter from Amazon.
The exact name of the product is:
HORUSDY 3-in-1 Hot Wire Foam Cutter, Hot Knife Engraving Kit Styrofoam Polystyrene Cutting Pen Tool
$25.99 (Australian dollars).
Thanks 😊
This is such a cool video and shows some techniques that i havent seen people use before, the layers of grout and then carving it is so clever, and really improved the verisimilitude. You could probably add even more depth by putting more waterproofing to areas that water would pool, low spots and some of the cracks maybe?
Do you thing you could add sand to the top waterproofing in spots to again add depth?
Thanks for the kind words. Great idea!
I haven't done a video incorporating it, but I have done it on an easter build I did for my local church. Add an extra couple layers of waterproofing in order to do this. When the waterproofing is wet you can sprinkle bone dry sand onto it. Let that layer of waterproofing set. Put some waterproofing in a spray bottle and spray it over the area you sprinkled sand on. Let that set for an hour and it will act like a glue, glueing the sand in place. You can go over it with another spray to secure the sand even more.
Hope that helps 🙏
@@ReptileWay that's awesome
What an amazing build! I am about to start my build today!
Can I ask how long you waited between apply each layer of grout and waterproofing?
Also, how long did wait after waterproofing before adding it to your enclosure? 😊
Thanks for your comment.
Drying time of grouts and sealants can be drastically influenced by the climatic conditions you are in. Through my experience with grouting, in a warmer climate like what I experienced in Darwin (temps 27 to 33 degrees celsius), time varying slightly with the thickness of the grout, it took between 1 to 3 hours for each layer of grout to dry.
However, now living in a cooler climate, for each layer of grout to dry and set it can be as much as 4 plus hours.
The best method to go on as to when to apply the next layer of grout is when the grout is dry to the touch.
Similar situation with the waterproofing, can vary slightly depending on climatic conditions. In a warmer climate like Darwin I could apply a new layer of waterproofing every 1 to 2 hours. However, in a colder climate, drying time will be longer. Again, wait until waterproofing has set and it's dry to the touch before applying the next layer.
The time until you can add your animal to the enclosure is dependent on the curing time. Most of the products used in these videos, such as silicone and waterproofing, have a curing time of 7 days. However, refer to product instructions for this information.
Hope that helps. Sorry for the delayed response. Happy building!
Can you use any brand of pond sealer?
oh my goodness, this is amazing! I was trying to find a video which is Australian so I can buy most stuff from Bunnings! have you made a background tutorial video yet? if you did, I would love to check it out!
question: where’d you buy the silicone and spray foam? 😁
Thanks soo much for the kind words 🙏
Yes we have a few background videos on this channel 😀
Silicone and spray foam are from Bunnings.
@@ReptileWay thank you!
Thanks for the great advice and it’s definitely helpful for us Aussies to know exactly where to find the materials. I’ll definitely be referencing this vid when I start my next tank. I did however find it hard to follow exactly what you were saying because the music was so loud and drowning you out
I'm soo glad the video helped and was useful!
Thanks for that feedback! That's quite an old video and I was just learning all this CZcams editing stuff. So I'm definitely taking that feedback on for all future videos.
Thanks for the kind words and constructive criticism! It's greatly appreciated! 🙏😊
What approximate ratio of paint to water did you use in the spray bottle for the black aging wash? Like just a few drops of paint in a bottle of water or like 50-50? Somewhere between?
Probably around 10% paint and 90% water. If you put too much paint in the spray bottle does not work. Thanks for the great question 👍
Love the in-depth video. May I ask, how many sheets on the insulation foam did you use for this landscape?
Thanks for the positive feedback! 2 sheets were used
@@ReptileWay Awesome. Still struggling to find the insulation foam you used. But I'm sure my country will have it somewhere.
@@OPTIMUSPR1M8 you don't have to use the exact brand. You can even use packing foam, the foam you find in a TV boxes etc.
@@ReptileWay I've tried it before. Unfortunately it's messy work with normal polystyrene. The foam you use. I've already found some in the area I live in. Had to order from AliExpress
Could you use Plaster of Paris instead of grout? I'm making a cave for a bearded dragon and we have that on hand but not grout.
Legend, I've been youtubing videos, and it's good to find an aussie version with bunnings 😂 none of this walmart or Home Depot 😂 if you were to build these and the enclosures, how long does it generally take? Looking to do a 6ft x 4ft setup for our python, tossing up between using PVC sheeting, plywood and just sealing, or the MDF, though using mdf worries me with the moisture side of things. Cheers. Liked and subbed too
Thanks soo Much for the kind words. I'm so happy the videos are proving useful! Yes I used to struggle with the lack of Aussie content also.
If you are building and enclosure from scratch, I personally like the Formply from Bunnings as it's strong, holds up nicely to wear and tear. Here is a fairly large build I did using formply :
czcams.com/video/XnrMm2BZnGw/video.htmlsi=wLhYJ15dtqjsEpkn
However if your more advanced with woodwork and have the tools, check out SerpaDesign as his enclosures are amazing and has step by step guides.
Goodluck with your build!
@ReptileWay that's ok no dramas at all, like many others, I appreciate the effort for the effort needed to film and edit.
I'll check out the video shortly thank you, I'd imagine it'd be the structural ply 17mm thick? Like black sheets I think it's F17?
Haha wouldnt say im advanced but I'll check them out and might give it a crack.
Hey do you think this method could be applied to a 8x16 ft wall? I’m really looking for ideas for my black throat monitors enclosures
Definitely. If you check out our wardrobe conversion video, that's a decent size build with no issues 🙂
@@ReptileWay I did and that was awesome!!
@@coldbloodedmonstars great to hear. Goodluck with your build 🙂
Hello... great video! Couldn't I use a grout sealant to sub the pond sealant ?
Thanks! You would have to make sure it's Reptile Safe. I chose the pond sealer because if it's safe for fish and aquatic life, it's safe for reptiles also.
You could contact manufacturer of grout sealer to ask if it's safe 😀
@@ReptileWay thanks for your response!
How my cracks looking lol x great job though
I absolutely love it! How much do you believe the materials cost for this piece?
Thanks soo much, it's a very large piece at around 109cm in length, so around $200 Australia dollars for materials. This includes spray foam and grout being the larger costs along with all the other materials
@@ReptileWay great job 👍🏻👏🏻🍻I managed to do it very cheaply by asking people if they had foam boards/polystyrene and so I got them free from friends and shops and only thing I had to buy was expanding foam and grout which I managed to get 25kg for £16 in the uk, paints I had already so all in all a cheap build - oh and sealer I had to buy but wasn’t massively expensive 👍🏻🏴🍻
What did you used for the bottom
I was thinking this for my iguana enclosure but i have no experience with foam spray does it stay hard for a big iguana?and is grouting important?
Thanks for your comment. That's ok, you don't really need alot of experience with spray foam as it's quite easy to use.
Now for a heavier animal like this, the spray foaming, grouting and waterproofing are very important.
For the spray foam, it can be surprisingly strong. However, to assure the structure will hold, you may want the spray foam layers to be thicker in areas that it will be walking across, laying to bask etc.
So once you've carved your foam, try get the weight of your animal, and then place something of the same/similar weight on your structure at various points and see if it holds. Adapt your foam design until it can hold the weight. This will ensure that once you've completed your entire build it's not going to crack under the weight of the animal. Also with the spray foam, make sure you carve the entire top shiny layer of the spray foam off. If you do not, the grout does not adhere properly and could lead to the structure cracking and flaking off.
The Next stage, Grouting. If you decide to go with a different brand, make sure it's reptile safe. If in the US or Canada, a popular choice is Drylok (the original). Now, for heavy animals like this, I would do a minimum of 6 layers of grout. Start off with a thick pancake consistency mixture of grout to begin with and as the layers progress the grout gets thinner and thinner. With the first couple layers of grout, once dried, you may see cracks. Do not worry, as you progress through the layers of grout with a thinner/runnier consistency of grout, it will fill in those cracks. The grouting process is complete once there are no visible cracks and you've done a minimum of 6 layers.
Now for the waterproofing, not only does this make the product easier to clean and sanitary, it strengthens the grout and reduces the chance of cracking and flaking.
All these steps are crucial for reptiles that are heavier. Hope that helps 🙏 🙂
Is the pond sealang u used safe for bearded dragons?how long until totally cured and could go to vivarium?could be this sealant used even for basking spot?will survive heat? Thank you
Thanks for the message! Yes it is safe for reptiles as it's used for aquatic species like fish as it's used in ponds which are alot more sensitive. Takes 7 days to cure, follow the instructions. And yes it can be used in basking spots as I've tested up to 48 degrees celsius and no issues at all. I have tested it on various snake species and lizards including Bearded dragons and no issues. I also spoke to the company that makes it and they said it's safe. Using the Pond sealant over your builds also allows for easy cleaning. A great cleaning product that I use on all my builds is the earth dish washing liquid as it's natural, grey water safe and won't strip the waterproofing, use a soft cloth for cleaning. Hope this helps 🙏
@@ReptileWay it it have to be exctly same one?as i can not find exact same as u used in video..thank you
@@MidlandsDragons I called up Crommelin not to long ago because they were out of stock for a while of that exact one. But the told me the Crommelin water based paving sealer 4L is the exact same as that clear pond sealer. I have tested it on products myself and it is the same.
Is there something you can apply to the cave if the grout starts crumbling a little bit because I put it on a little thick
It's not the end of the world if this happens. If you have used the davco sanatised grout (productin the video), if it's crumbling it may not be dry yet, as it dries hard. Depending on your climatic conditions it could take 12 to 48 hours to dry properly. So first of all make sure you have given it time for each layer to dry.
If it's dry and it's flaking off, you may need to finish of with a couple of layers whereby the grout is of a thinner consistency/slightly more watery. This will fill in all the cracks and reduce grout flaking off. Make sure you do enough layers. A minimum of 3 to 4 layers of grout.
Other reasons why grout may be crumbling off:
- the shiny top layer of spray foam hasn't been carved off. Grout does not adhere to that surface well.
- Grout has not been mixed up properly
- when doing the layers of grout, start with a thick pancake consistency grout as the layers grogress you create more of a watery grout.
- if you are using a different product, it may react differently, which I can unfortunately not explain.
In the later stages when you apply the waterproofing. This hardens it up your build even more.
Hope this helps 🙏
Mmmm, I love this but my Red Tails are bit and HEAVY!
Do you use sanded grout are no?
Hi! Are you familiar with foam coat products (there are several brands). They supposedly crack less than grout and have different additives. Do you think it’s that much different than grout?
Unfortunately I'm not, just from that description. Maybe if you mention a few brands and product names that may assist me.
But off the top of my head I haven't seen anyone use such products. Do you know if they are reptile friendly and if their are any others using it? Especially individuals in the reptile enclosure building world
@@ReptileWay Hotwire Foam Factory and Rosco. They do claim safety and use for reptile and aquarium backgrounds.
@@jamcloset28 Thanks for that I will look into it as I've never heard of it 😀
I wonder if drylok is similar to grout ?
I kno drylok is waterproof or if I need both. I’m looking for something similar to the waterproof u used
Alot of people who build reptile decor in the US, Like one of the biggest channels, SerpaDesign, Use Drylok (make sure it's the original/plain, Other forms like the Extreme are not safe for reptiles). From what I've heard and researched you only need to use the Drylok. You don't need to have a waterproofing like the pond sealer as it's sort of in this product. Hope that helps 🙏
@@ReptileWay yes this helps thank you so much!
How do these work with heat lamps/heat projectors being foam inside?
I've never had any issues with regards to heat lamps from above and the basking spot temperatures being as high as 47 degrees celsius.
The reason why there has been no issues considering the internal structure is made of foam, is that it is completely covered with an upwards of 4 layers of a grout concrete mix. This alone is enough to stop the heat from heat lamp effecting the internal foam structure. In addition there is upwards of 3 coats of pond sealer as well. These layers prevent any reaction that the foam could have with the heat as it's a physical barrier and a decent one at that.
I'm always one to make a setup to mimic the wild. I prefer in relation to heat and light setups that it comes from above in the form of heat lamps to encourage basking etc.
So this is the only style of lighting and heating I would recommend as I have tested this thoroughly, as well as lots of other reptile keepers and breeder I know approach it in the same manner.
Hope that explanation helps 🙏 🙂
Do you by any chance have this background for sale? I have a 48x24x18 tank and I think my baby would love this more natural looking rock. I was going to go out and buy some river rock from our river and sanitize it but I don't think it'll look quite as good as this. This is amazing
Thanks for the kind words. Unfortunately not. I do custom builds but locally in Darwin Australia.
@Reptile Way no problem. oh ok. Thank you 😊. I am going to t4y to build my own with excavator clay for my bearded dragon
@@christy5604 Goodluck with your build! 🙂
@@ReptileWay thank you 😊
What are you using to “glue” the foam insulation to each other to stack them? Is it aquarium safe silicone?
Yes! That's correct 👌
@@ReptileWay thank you for the quick answer!
Geniune question, is the final product toxic? I was looking to use this technique in my frog's viv but most things that people do for reptiles can't be used for amphibians for this issue. Just asking bc i saw you reply!!
Love the video tbh, great work, great videography and AMAZING results
It's not toxic to reptiles, and there is the added assurance of waterproofing which makes it definitely safe for reptiles.
When it comes to building materials, I would group frogs in with fish and aquarium building materials. Frogs can be extremely sensitive, and what is safe for reptiles is not necessarily for frogs.
I would check out SerpaDesign CZcams channel as he has alot of aquatic designs. And he keeps either frogs and/or toads, and there are build videos on those enclosure designs and safe building materials.
You can also look at people who do aquarium designs as well as ponds to get some ideas of safe materials 🙂
I just wanted to add my 2 cents of research since I’m doing the same thing.
1. Acrylic paints are not toxic and don’t need a top coat. A lot of ppl are making diy aquarium projects topped with just acrylic and they do fine submerged.
2. I found a couple grout users for underwater, again coated with just acrylic. Because I’m still a tiny bit worried if it’s toxic and couldn’t find clear answers about that, I’m going to do a top coat over grout and acrylic of polyurethane. I found a video from a guy who does aquariums professionally who uses that and has never had any problems. Once fully cured it’s not toxic.
He puts it over just fill foam freshly covered in sand, with spray paint just fyi. But I like the acrylic paint and grout route personally.
This has inspired me to make a cave for my skink!
Also where did you get your Yeah Nah Tshirt?! I need one lol
That's great news! It will be one happy skink I'm sure!
Kmart I think over a year ago 🤣 That T shirt sums up Aussies responses perfectly 🤣🤣
@@ReptileWay only Aussies will understand the 'Yeah Nah' 😄
@@ezy2kill hahaha very very true 🤣🤣
I lo ve your backgrounds!
I am also curious if you accept orders. I have a glass 72" x 24" x 24.
I am somewhat overwhelmed to make this a enriched and pleasant environment for my bear ded dragon that is 2 pounds+ and 24" long.
Most things I can get for him are not able to accommodate him.
Thanks so much for the kind words!
Unfortunately I'm not taking any orders for the next couple of months as my schedule is full.
Because demand is quite high in Australia I only build and sell locally as I can keep cost of product down by not including shipping and Australia post is that rough they have broken numerous products I've tried to send.
My apologies if this inconveniences you 😊🙏
Amazing how long in-between grout costs please
Thanks for the kind words. You really need to wait for each layer to dry. Drying time varies in each climate. If you are in a very warm climate it can take an hour, cooler climate 4+ hours. Hope that helps 🙏
Hello from the US. Is the grout you use the same as standard tile grout?
Hi 👋 Not necessarily, this is a high quality sanitised grout that is safe to be used in places like food preparation facilities etc.
@@ReptileWay hmm the hunt is on.
Hi, what happens to all the offcuts?
Landfill?
Thanks for the message. I keep most of the offcuts for future builds 😊
I love the video this is the one I've chosen out of all of the ones that I've seen. The music is a little loud so it's hard for me to hear everything I have a hearing deficiency I wish it wasn't as loud as it is
My apologies for that. I will keep it in mind when I do future build videos. Would it help if you turned the subtitles on?
So glad you liked the design 😊
@@ReptileWay excellent idea. Thank you 😊
@jacqle9325 I'm really going to keep in mind your feedback for my next video. The music will be alot quieter and less distracting/ or i may decide not to have music at all, so the viewer can focus on the instructions.
The next build that is in the making is Ancient Ruin themed, taking inspiration from Middle Earth, Lord of the Rings. Stay tuned! 🤗
What would you sell something like that for... looks like a lot of work... not sure I have the patience to complete it.. :(
How long did it actually take start to finish?
Hi! Thanks for the message. I only do custom builds for my local clients, Darwin Australia, due to a lack of time limitation, as I have a few other business projects going on.
It took about 3 weeks including curing times.
@@ReptileWay All good... been long time since I been up there... Shippin would be billions from darwin to here LOL
@@brucebird133 exactly the problem $200 and Australia post damages the products, did trial runs, didn't pan out great
@@ReptileWay How much clearance do you give between the heat lights and the 'rocks'.. ?
What did you use for waterproofing?
At 14mins and 33 sets in to the video shows you the product used for waterproofing, It's Crommelin clear pond sealer and can be purchased from Bunnings in Australia 🙂
So I have to water proof if the only water in the enclosure is the water tray ? For leopard gecko
Thanks for the comment. The waterproofing will make the product last longer, adds strength and reduces the chances of any grout flaking off and if the animal poos on it, it makes it an easier surface to clean. It also protects the paint job you've done. Hope that helps 🙏 🙂
@@ReptileWay thank you for fast reply
@@johnj4696 no worries! Goodluck with your build! 🤗
Do you sell these I want this onec
The music volume was a little loud, I can’t wait to make one of these this is awesome!
Thanks for that feedback. Apologies for it being a little loud. I'll keep it in mind for future videos.
So glad you liked the build! Goodluck 🤗
What silicone do you use?
Selleys 310g Clear Glass Silicone Sealant
(Make sure it says on the packaging for windows and aquariums).
There's an entire shopping list towards the end of the video as well as a picture of the silicone somewhere in this video, if your in Australia you can easily fi d it at bunnings 👍
How much does something like this cost?
Is there a brand of paint that you recommend
Not really, as you just need to make sure it's acrylic paint that is water based 😊
I live in Illinois and cannot find sanitized grout. Can I use something else?
I would go onto the SerpaDesign CZcams channel:
youtube.com/@SerpaDesign
And check out some of his rock background videos, as the materials this fella uses you can access in the US.
Hope that helps a bit 🙂
In one of his videos named DIY Concrete and Foam Background, he uses a Concrete product called QUIKRETE Hydraulic Water-Stop cement. You could use this product instead of the grout 🙂
This is the link to the video I'm referring to:
czcams.com/play/PLGPT1t4CqpfjjZtOScSnR-AmvX-ojvDqK.html
Thank you. I will check those out.
Hello, I am wondering why I can’t use a regular tile grout? Wouldn’t the sealer, seal the grout? I am working with the cement now on my build and it just doesn’t have the look of the grout.
Doesnt this melt,or is extremely flammable
I appreciate your concern, but that's incorrect.
Separating the spray foam is 4 layers of grout. These products have been tested to withstand temperatures of 50 degrees celsius. The hottest basking spot you need for most reptiles wouldn't exceed 47 degrees Celsius.
So therefore this is totally safe, even with high basking temperatures.
Make it yourself and temperature test it yourself 😜
How do you know that all this things are non toxic for reptiles?
Apologies for the late reply. Great question! I have been building reptile products for over 7 years. The materials I use are not unique just to my builds, they are quite popular within the Australian Reptile Community and have been deemed safe. I personally have had no issues with these builds causing any negative effects to my reptiles.
However things to consider other brands, or slight variations may not always be safe. Always stick with a water based acrylic paint for detailing.
To be extra cautious, I seal all my builds with a clear pond sealer. This product is safe for very sensitive aquatic lifeforms and therefore is safe for your reptiles. It also makes it more sanitary and easier to clean. I had to do quite a bit of research in regards to the building materials I use. If you are in the US, to figure out what products are safe, Check out the SerpaDesign CZcams channel. He again has alot of experience.
I hope this helps a little bit 👍
Hi,the colorgrout isnt supposed to be waterproof?im making for my snakes
I have been doing this for about 5 years now. The reason why it is waterproofed is because after the grouting stage, one of the best methods to make surfaces appear rocky is by using acrylic paint to spray paint and dry brush it on. If you were to leave as it is and not have waterproofing, if your animal poos on that surface, when you clean it that paint detailing will gradually start to come off.
Also I noticed after years of trial and error if you leave it at the grouting stage with no waterproofing, the piece can be more prone to bits of the grout flaking off and it's more vulnerable to cracking if you were to accidentally bump it. So the waterproofing can act as an outer shell, strengthening the piece.
The waterproofing also creates a more sanitary environment. As it's easier to cleaned up poo and urate due to the more slick surface.
Where in comparison without the waterproofing, the liquid from the poo and urate would soak into the peice slightly and would be almost impossible to clean out of the small cracks and grooves. And if you did give it a thorough scrub, it could lead to bits of the piece flaking off as well as removing all trace of the detailing paintwork.
These are the things I have personally learnt along my building journey. Every building element I use in my builds is there for a reason.
But at the end of the day do what works best for you 😊
@@ReptileWay I dont try to argue or something,im here to learn,i like your videos but its a bit hard to make comparison since im not a us native,sorry for misunderstanding and thank you for taking your time to reply:)
@@diandralorena2903 no worries at all 😊 And sorry if my reply made it out like you were arguing, not my intention, I was just being a bit straight to the point is all 😊 All questions and feedback are welcomed. I'm so glad you like the videos. Thanks soo much for supporting the channel by taking the time to watch and comment. It is greatly appreciated 🙏
@@ReptileWay what about fire hazard?is it suitable for a snake too?
@@diandralorena2903 suitable and safe for most reptiles, including snakes.
I've tested products like this to withstand bask spots (via heat lamps) of 45 degrees celsius and there's been no issues. So not a fire hazard with regards to normal basking spot temps using heat lamps 😊
What products do you use?
They are all clearly shown in the video 🙂
Hi, do you sell these? :)
Need one for RIZZO TO BE IN MY ROOM TO KEEP HIM BUSY
How much is that a can hours here is anywhere between 4 and 7.00
Spray foam at bunnings Australia ranges from $11 to $20 Australia Dollars (which is at the moment equivalent to $7.15 to $13 US dollars)
I wish you did the painting part in regular speed for a little to show better your technique
Thanks for that feedback, I will keep it in mind for future videos 🤗
How much did this all cost too?
Pls answer these questions
And will it fit in a 75 gallon tank
And also I'ma use a wooden cage the water proof paint u use is it toxic on wood for my beardie
And will this rock thingy work for a beared dragon
Oopsie but how much did this all cost
About how much did this cost you to make?? 😊
About $200 Australia dollars
Holy cow.. 24 a can for the spray foam???
The spray foam at bunnings in Australia ranges between about $11 to $25. For the larger sizes like 750mL the price is between $16 to $25 or so.
Yep it can be a little pricey
Do you sale these?
I only build and sell in my local area in Australia as demand is quite high. However I'm fully booked with building projects for the next few months. Sorry if that isn't helpful 🙏