Some substrate has slipped through my barrier. Question!

[Tsathoggua]

Hey everyone. I recently set up a 20 gal long with materials I ordered from Joshs frogs. One thing I noticed after putting in the water table rocks was that the substrate barrier mesh was cut 24 x 18. I ordered my materials under n inclusive package for a 20 gallon long. While I wasn't happy about this I decided to trim the liner into two pieces that would properly cover the surface area of the tank. Then I added my ABG mix. I noticed that in several areas a pinch of ABG had slipped over the edges of my barrier into the drainage layer.

This is my first terrarium so perhaps I am being overly cautious. My concern with is that his could foul the whole tank. I would appreciate some experienced hobbyists who could let me know if they have experienced this a al. If it is ok or if I should go to home depot and get some more liner and try again. It will be a pain to take everything out and sort it but I am just not happy. I can't stop worrying. I have attached a couple photos to show precisely what I am talking about. Please help. Should I take It apart or leave it?

[flybyferns]

Sometimes this can not be helped. It's a pain

Taking it apart is entirely up to you.
I doubt it will foul up the water.
You may notice it will stop once the ABG is evenly saturated ?

Actually, I have ripped apart a few. It's actually satisfying I can't stand when there's something about an enclosure I don't like.

Here is how I layer substrate for an enclosure:

Bottom up:
1- drill a hole in the lower back of the tank ( not the bottom) with a 1/2" (12mm) glass bit -- using an electric drill
2-for the drain / using silicone ----- purchase a "Quick-Connect" part from home depot ---- Adapter- PL-3025 (manufacture = Watts )
-silicone the entire area around the drilled opening --> push the "quick connect" into the hole being sure the silicone is close to edge of the quick connect with out obstructing the opening where the drain tubing will be pushed in later. Turn the tank upside down ---> Carefully position the tank ON the quick connect ( this will help it set securely) ---> silicone the inside the same way. Cut a pc of screening about 4" x 4" and silicone it over the entire "quick connect". This screen pc prevents any soil or substrate from getting caught in the drain tubing. Be careful not to get any silicone in the opening. Let this set completely before proceeding.
3- add gravel or your choice of drain layer---- use enough to just cover the opening of the drain.
4- place 1/2 or 3/8" poly batting = quilt balling ( found at a fabric store such a Joanne's )
5-place fiberglass screening - (on rolls at home depot)
6- Add WET abg ----- starting at the perimeter----press it down really hard.
7. ( after all your substrate is added) --- push 1/2" tubing ( home depot) into the quick connect- the tank can auto drain into a gallon water container.

The position of the drain should be just below the top of the gravel.

I cut the screen and batting to the exact size of the interior of the tank - I don't fold it up or tuck it anywhere.

Toward the end of this post is instructions/ including the drilling--- with photos
http://www.frogforum.net/breeding-eg...ure-ideas.html

BTW - welcome to Frog Forum

[Tsathoggua]

Thank you, Lynn. I really like the poly batting. It looks like it really keeps the substrate from slipping through into the water table. I'm going to get some and redo my tank. I went out today and bought some weed blocker liner for a new barrier because I do not like the one Joshs frogs sent. I would rather have one complete piece. You're right though, I wont be happy until I redo this. It's going to be a pain to separate any dirt from the drainage layer that falls in but I'm going to scoop most of it out before I pull out the barrier.

[Tsathoggua]

Hey Lynn, would this be acceptable for the batting?

Fairfield Traditional Polyester Batting | Shop Hobby Lobby

[DigitalPunk]

Excellent Ghostbusters T-Shirt :P

[DigitalPunk]

I do my substrates very similar to Lynn (I don't always use the quilt batting).

The main thing is to soak the ABG with water prior to adding it to the tank. When you do add the soil it is best to start with the edges of the tank and pack it in good to seal the mesh material to the glass and keep unwanted soil for making it into your drainage layer. Some soil getting down there won't hurt anything, but it can make it all look a bit ugly lol.

[Tsathoggua]

Paul, when you pack it in at the edges do you have your barrier folded up, down, or is it cut to sit perfectly flat?

[DigitalPunk]

I cut my barrier to be 1 to 2" longer and wider than is needed and fold it up to create a "bowl" for the soil to sit in.

[Tsathoggua]

Cool. Thank you!