Substrate screen mash

[dmallia]

So I started to build my first planted vivarium. I inserted the cork background and made a layer of hydro balls at the bottom. Now I am in need of a substrate mesh. As usual I made my search on the internet and found out some materials that can be used (tulle, nylon mesh, aluminium mesh, polyfoam, fibre glass mesh, etc..) After more research I found that a mesh with bigger holes is better so it allows springtails to pass. Is that true? And what do you suggest?

[Mentat]

The mesh should be non-metallic and with small holes. Larger holes will allow substrate to fall through and clog/rot in your wet false bottom. Myself and some members even add a layer of poly fabric (or poly aquarium filter sheet) on top of plastic window screening (from hardware store) to keep soil out of the false bottom area. Good luck !

[DigitalPunk]

I'll second Carlos. I use Weed block to keep my substrate out of the false bottom area.

[kueluck]

I used two layers of fiberglass screening. Your spingtails most likely won't go below your top substrate anyway unless it dries out. Springtails are going to seek out moisture and then food.

[Louis Charles Bruckner]

Agreed.
I have used fine window screen from a local hardware store, just make sure it is made from fiberglass (better because it doesn't rot or get brittle over time like plastic or vinyl)

I also like screen material because I can cut it to form and stitch together pieces to make it form fitting to odd shapes in false bottom vivairums.
I.E around potted plants or water features.

[deranged chipmunk]

I have been using window screen only my past few builds. In fact, on my new build, nothing else will do in some of the places I will be planting.