20 long D. leucomelas journal

[DonLisk]

It sounds like to did apply the foam correctly from the start so I have no idea why it would shrink up.
Did you clean the glass with anything before applying the foam? I use Wipe-out since I know it doesn't leave a residue behind. Virginia would also work.

One thought here would be to see if you can inject some silicone in behind the piece coming off to secure it. Maybe prop it into place with something while the silicone dries.

[Kisa]

Great looking tank so far, I can't wait to see the finished product. Sorry you're having trouble though, I hope it gets resolved. D:

[John]

Great photo journal. I'll keep an eye on your progress . Thanks for explaining what you're doing.

I usually put some aquarium silicone (just a few lines) on the back of the tank before I spray the foam. I also don't believe in layering it - it will have better cohesion if it all cures together. Curing takes a long time though if it's a thick layer, which is a downside.

I think you'll regret not having a drainage layer. The substrate will become anaerobic, won't support so many micro organisms, and it will likely be somewhat more smelly than it should be.

[MikeM670]

Great photo journal. I'll keep an eye on your progress . Thanks for explaining what you're doing.

I usually put some aquarium silicone (just a few lines) on the back of the tank before I spray the foam. I also don't believe in layering it - it will have better cohesion if it all cures together. Curing takes a long time though if it's a thick layer, which is a downside.

I think you'll regret not having a drainage layer. The substrate will become anaerobic, won't support so many micro organisms, and it will likely be somewhat more smelly than it should be.

Like John says your substrate should never have a unpleasant smell. It should have a nice earthy smell. As for the foam pulling away. That just happen to my 40 vert build. The top area on one side pulled away down towards the majority of the foam. Is that what happen to you? I just sprayed some more foam behind it to secure it in place.

[DonLisk]

I wonder if this happens when the foam is done in layers since the new foam layer as it dries is maybe attaching to the initial layer and pulling it off the glass?

[bshmerlie]

Maybe the tank was stood up took quickly before the center was fully cured causing the center to shift and run downwards. I would think you could reattach it with silicone.
I agree with the others....you're going to regret not having a drainage layer.

[Voltage]

I didn't clean the glass with anything but water, and it was bone dry. The foam shinking problem has just gotten worse overnight It wen't from only being on the far right side to half of the entire background . Here's some pics to show you what i mean, and plants.
With only one light

Shot at 2011-08-09

With both

Shot at 2011-08-09

Substrate

Shot at 2011-08-09

Shrinkage on far right side

Shot at 2011-08-09

And the awful shrinkage on the back

Shot at 2011-08-09