Fake Rock guys!

[Gradderz]

OK So after weeks of planning I have decided on what I wanted to do with this huge vivarium lurking in my room. I had originally intended on producing an expanding foam background, however I don't want all the space of the tank to be taken over by this thick layer of foam. And as an *artist* I want complete control over my vivarium. So I have decided my best bet would be a combination of fake rocks, cork bark and epiweb (or any other material to grow moss and bind plants to). I also feel like fake rocks will give a lot of space saving climbing options for arboreal frogs, while allowing me to have a shallow pool area for draining the false bottom that looks more natural. I have a lot of questions regarding the construction of fake rocks however...

1. I was eyeing up this stuff from B&Q Celotex Roof Insulation (L) 1200 (W) 450 (T) 50mm, 5060153760003
It's Pir, but I'm assuming this will be okay for constructing the fake rock shapes using a craft knife? Obviously the detail doesn't have to be great since it will be covered in cement, which takes me onto my next question...
2. What cement do people use? I'm assuming general purpose cement like this stuff...Lafarge General Purpose Cement 25kg, 5018719100046
but obviously building it up in layers, a more watered down layer for it to be absorbed and avoid it flaking off, then thicker layers on top to carve smaller details in after, yes?
3. I know cement alters the ph level of the water, so I have to spray it down with vinegar and water, my question though is how long and often should I do this for, and what ratio of vinegar to water?
4. What paints do you use, I thought just general non toxic craft paints. But then what is used after to make it waterproof?

Thanks! And if I get no replies could someone please point my in the direction of fake rock builds from people in the UK, as all I find are american builds, which are amazing but I can't understand what our equivalents to their products would be!!!

[deranged chipmunk]

I've never done a cement background before. I'm not real fond of the 6 week or so cure time. But I have used non sanded grout (the stuff you put between flooring tiles), and it works just as well. I used acrylics craft paint to detail it and then sprayed it down with a clear spray paint that is formulated for plastics.

Maybe one of our UK folks will chime in with some supply suggestions


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