Never Built a viv before

[Alykat14]

I have had frogs (tree, RETF, tiger legged, flying..etc) and lizards all my life, but my mother always set up the vivs (as i was very little still) and it was always done in a very generic way...[bought cages, sand, moss, no false bottoms, blah pumps, and limited plants.] tips for good brands of substrates, pumps, foggers etc...would be greatly appreciated.. i would also like extensive directions and maybe photos/links for false bottom construction. i hear that great stuff is an issue for many if not all first time users....any warnings to minimize mess please?! I'll probably begin construction on my viv for tree frogs and anoles(together) in the next week or two, as we will be moving. Im thinking background and one wall of the 3d background, a waterfall and pond that will be about 30% of the tank, and some grapevines and shelf 'shrooms. I'm going to have it flush with the wall in the living room, and be about 60-80 gallons.

[TheCrazyFishLady]

Good for you! Vivs are very much fun. I am technically on my second one right now, although my first one wasn't very fancy. Just heavily planted, that's all.

Great Stuff is not as difficult as many say it is. This was my first time even entering into the hardware section and after a little practise, I got it going pretty well. I suggest wearing old clothes, gloves, and laying down trash bags.

I don't have tree frogs, nor ever had, so I can't help out there.

You can check out my thread if you want. It's "New Crestie Viv" in the "Geckos" section.

[Alykat14]

Thank you! I'll be sure to lay out trash bags and check out your thread! what do you think is the best thing to use to carve the great stuff? I figure a box cutter....but I want some other opinions

[TheCrazyFishLady]

Something super sharp. I tried using an old knife and that barely got anywhere. I would say a brand new razor in a box cutter should do the trick. Or any other knife that is brand new and very sharp. Cutting it is definitely a trial. Be safe!

[Mink]

dont cut, shape with a drywall rasp.

[Alykat14]

bro, what is a drywall rasp?

[Quack]

I don't know what a drywall rasp is either, but when I cut great stuff(after its dry of course) I use a knife with a serrated edge.