Is PVC trim board like AZEK safe?

[ctreefer]

Curious, I know we use PVC for plumbing but just curious if AZEK or similar poses any issues.

I want to create a platform on the base of my tank like they used to do (maybe still do?) with Polyethylene sheet (cutting board). I've got lots of extra Azek lying around. My thought is to create a 1.5" thick shelf that mimics the footprint of my live rock. Then add 1.5" SSB along the perimeter on the glass bottom not covered by Azek. This way I don't have any detritus accumulating under the rock and can do "maintenance" on the SSB as needed.

Maybe this has been done already?

thanks!

 

[jsker]

I would not suggest using the cutting board material. Over time it will deteriorate and will become a haven for algae.

 

[ctreefer]

something like this?

 

[ctreefer]

I would not suggest using the cutting board material. Over time it will deteriorate and will become a haven for algae.

For Polyethylene? I'm surprised. I thought PE pretty much lasts forever unless added fillers to let it decompose over time. Either way, what are your thoughts on PVC like material? We already use it regularly. my only concern in AZEK and similar tend to be a little porous so not sure if that would cause any issues.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

HDPE will be fine. Azek is pvc. It might be ok too, but look carefully to be sure it isn’t treated to inhibit mood.

 

[ctreefer]

Thanks Randy, Will check with the manufacturer to confirm!

 

[jsker]

For Polyethylene? I'm surprised. I thought PE pretty much lasts forever unless added fillers to let it decompose over time. Either way, what are your thoughts on PVC like material? We already use it regularly. my only concern in AZEK and similar tend to be a little porous so not sure if that would cause any issues.

I have worked with the cutting board material quite a bit in a different industry, and this is were my opion is coming from.:)

I like the idea for the piece in the bottom of the tank, maybe whit acrylic.

 

[ctreefer]

I have worked with the cutting board material quite a bit in a different industry, and this is were my opion is coming from.:)

I like the idea for the piece in the bottom of the tank, maybe whit acrylic.

I hear ya Jsker. Always interested in input. I haven't experienced HDPE being an issue but have limited experience with products produced with it. From what I've found for cellular pvc I cant find anything regarding mold inhibiting PVC. It seems most PVC doesn't contain anything due to it being non organic in nature. I put together my scrap PVC today. I'd use acrylic as I know it's inert but i can only find 1/4" material and it would take awhile to build a shelf thick enough. Let me know what you thing so far.

 

[ctreefer]

Here's the shelf in the making. I decided to make it 2 1/4" thick (3 layers). I used PVC cement to bond it together for 24 hours. just cut the overall shape and placed it in the tank for reference.

 

[ctreefer]

First time posting images. Hopefully this works.....

 

[ctreefer]

again, the goal is to create a shelf that has no sand so I can make sure it can be blown clear of detritus. Anything that blows to the perimeter can then be vacuumed as needed regularly.

 

[ctreefer]

I'll probably silicone around the perimeter to ensure no gunk finds its way into the cracks and crevices

 

[dirtycontour]

I'll probably silicone around the perimeter to ensure no gunk finds its way into the cracks and crevices

If that’s the AZEK, you’re going to have to fix it to the bottom of the tank somehow. That stuff is very buoyant.

Looks good!

 

[jsker]

again, the goal is to create a shelf that has no sand so I can make sure it can be blown clear of detritus. Anything that blows to the perimeter can then be vacuumed as needed regularly.

almost looks like a Fender Stratocaster base. Nice job on the fabrication:)

 

[Centerline]

almost looks like a Fender Stratocaster base. Nice job on the fabrication:)

Lol - was thinking the same thing.

 

[ctreefer]

almost looks like a Fender Stratocaster base. Nice job on the fabrication:)

LOL, I'm OK with that. I was more concerned someone was going to think they were imbalanced boobs.....

 

[ctreefer]

If that’s the AZEK, you’re going to have to fix it to the bottom of the tank somehow. That stuff is very buoyant.

Looks good!

Agreed. I'm going to silicone it down along the perimeter to help keep it down and also to prevent detritus from getting underneath. Once the rock is on top, I don't anticipate any issues on floating shelves.

 

[ctreefer]

so it's been about three weeks. Just added sand and rock. I think I've gotten the rock to something I like. This is what I've got so far with the PVC base structure.

 

[Breadman03]

LOL, I'm OK with that. I was more concerned someone was going to think they were imbalanced boobs.....

They don't usually match perfectly. :cool: