I've been browsing other forums with the same concerns and it's surprising what you find.
There is an ongoing debate on GE Silcone I&II. Some one posted an interesting reply that Silicone I is ok but does not have the structural strenth of true aquarium silicone. Apparently, one of the main binding chemicals in aquarium silicone is different than GE Silicone I. Most forums seem dead against Silicone II or any silicone that has a mildew agent.
The same names keep popping up as THE ones to use: CRL 99AS, AGA, Perfecto and a German company that makes a silicone exclusively for aquariums. It also seem that these also have a counterpart in black and also come in larger tubes for a better price.
Krylon Fusion seems the hands down winner for painting ornaments. I have also used clear urethane spray from Home depot to spray on storebought ornaments to keep them from fading and the fish from sucking the paint off. I spray it on and let it sit for several days to clear VOC's.
I have also read that most two part epoxies, NOT polyester resins, are safe but must be cured very well. Polyester resins are not totally water safe. I remember seeing this in photography classes in college when the wet sink would turn slightly white after a days use and the clear up upon drying out. The right epoxy doesnt do this.
This past weekend I found at Home depot a stick epoxy that is for aquariums and water repairs. It works well. It's green in color. I would use surgical gloves when rolling between hands. Then you just throw them away when you're done.
There is an ongoing debate on GE Silcone I&II. Some one posted an interesting reply that Silicone I is ok but does not have the structural strenth of true aquarium silicone. Apparently, one of the main binding chemicals in aquarium silicone is different than GE Silicone I. Most forums seem dead against Silicone II or any silicone that has a mildew agent.
The same names keep popping up as THE ones to use: CRL 99AS, AGA, Perfecto and a German company that makes a silicone exclusively for aquariums. It also seem that these also have a counterpart in black and also come in larger tubes for a better price.
Krylon Fusion seems the hands down winner for painting ornaments. I have also used clear urethane spray from Home depot to spray on storebought ornaments to keep them from fading and the fish from sucking the paint off. I spray it on and let it sit for several days to clear VOC's.
I have also read that most two part epoxies, NOT polyester resins, are safe but must be cured very well. Polyester resins are not totally water safe. I remember seeing this in photography classes in college when the wet sink would turn slightly white after a days use and the clear up upon drying out. The right epoxy doesnt do this.
This past weekend I found at Home depot a stick epoxy that is for aquariums and water repairs. It works well. It's green in color. I would use surgical gloves when rolling between hands. Then you just throw them away when you're done.
Last edited:
