Sand in your Overflow?

[Siberwulf]

I'm getting some algae buildup in my overflow, as this tank was 100% clear on the bottom. Wondering if there's any drawbacks to putting sand in there to block out light from my fuge. Am I missing some "omg don't do it" moment here?

Also, since this tank is established (enough to grow algae), does it matter if it's live sand or just regular?

 

[Red_Beard]

You could, it can collect detritus or go anoxic though. Both of those can be a non issue though if you clean it regularly or leave it alone completely(if you go deeper than 2 inches)
What about painting the underside? You could use brush on acrylic black paint and do it in place. Just be careful as it comes off if you scratch it, but it blocks light well

 

[Siberwulf]

I'm not against painting it, how well would that hold up to salt creep though?

 

[Miami Reef]

I'm getting some algae buildup in my overflow, as this tank was 100% clear on the bottom. Wondering if there's any drawbacks to putting sand in there to block out light from my fuge. Am I missing some "omg don't do it" moment here?

Also, since this tank is established (enough to grow algae), does it matter if it's live sand or just regular?

Can you put black duct tape on the underside? :)

 

[Red_Beard]

I'm not against painting it, how well would that hold up to salt creep though?

Holds up just fine, you just need to be gentle when you clean it and not scrub it off. Or you could use krylon and spray it into a bowl outside and quickly paint that on with a small foam brush, it is a lot more durable but a little more messy, and needs 2-3 coats.