wow that looks alsome if you could tell me how you made i would be greatfull
Mayo
Sep 14, 2004 1:47 PM
Thanks. I got the idea and info from another kingsnake user that frequents the gecko forum. I bought the polystyrene (styrofoam) from Lowes. It comes in a sheet that is 4X8ft, same as plywood for about $7. I didn't have a truck with me, but for the same price they have it cut in quarters and sealed together. Once package is plenty, I didn't even use 1/4 of it. It is located in the A/C area. I bought a 25lb bag of bathroom tile grout. There are dozens of colors, but I wanted a color that matched the tile I use in the enclosure. I think this cost about $10. There are much cheaper as well. And 25lbs is enough to make dozens of them. Get the kind with sand already in it, most are that type. I also bought a spray can of grout sealer, keeps it from flaking and keeps water out. And get a tube of Liquid Nails, the projects kind. I tried other stuff, but it chemically burns the polystyrene.
I used a ruler and a paper cutter to cut the polystyrene. It can get messy with little pieces. So keep a vacuum handy. Once I glued it with the Liquid Nails I let it dry for a few hours.
Then I mixed the grout in just a plastic cup. I did this outside, but then it started to rain and you can;t move easily. So do it someplace covered that you can leave it without moving for 24-48hrs. Do oneside at a time, you can just flip and do the other side the following day. I played around with the amount of water with the grout. I started out thin to get a coat and fill the cracks. Then I got it think like putty so that I could form it how I wanted. A spoon works real well.
The spray says to wait 3 weeks before applying. IT really takes a while for the grout to completely dry, and it must be to seal it. I waited 21 days and sprayed the sealer all over it. The next day it did not smell at all and was ready to go.
I know I can do better now that I know how it works. It is really easy and cheap...you can make alot. And those little plastic ornaments (from pet stores)cost $20 each when you can make cool stuff.
Post some pictures in the leopard gecko forum if you decide to make it.
