Sand Vs Gravel

[ziggy2]

I'm setting up another tank tonight and want to use sand. I've heard all kinds of different advise in the past on what sand to use. I know I don't want to go too fine. (Say the size of a grain of sugar) My real question is, can I use pool filter sand or do I need to use something else?

 

[ShadowBass]

Pool filter sand is the best kind. If you get the stuff from home depot or somewhere like that, make sure nothing has gotten into the bag since they tend to carry the cheaper stuff that isn't sealed or handled as well.

The bags of more expensive white quartz sand that you get at pool stores usually are sealed better and probably more clean. They don't cloud the water like the cheaper stuff either because they're of a slightly larger and much more uniform grain.

 

[balton777]

Pool filter sand is the best kind. If you get the stuff from home depot or somewhere like that, make sure nothing has gotten into the bag since they tend to carry the cheaper stuff that isn't sealed or handled as well.

The bags of more expensive white quartz sand that you get at pool stores usually are sealed better and probably more clean. They don't cloud the water like the cheaper stuff either because they're of a slightly larger and much more uniform grain.

It almost seems the sand I buy from the pool supply store is pre-cleaned/rinsed. I love it.

 

[ziggy2]

Then that's what I'll do. I like the idea of being pre-washed. Thanks, I'm going to get some today.

 

[rallysman]

The play sand I had was so fine that it looked like mud.

I love the pool filter sand.

 

[ziggy2]

I just got 100 lbs for $15.00 does that sound alright. It is Quartz Sand for pool filters.

 

[DasArab]

Tons of threads on this subject so have good search but IMO dont buy the cheapest sand you find. Always buy aquarium specific sand or river sand as the grain size is picked so that it doesnt compact down and cause gas pockets to build up.

 

[Gr8KarmaSF]

I just got 100 lbs for $15.00 does that sound alright. It is Quartz Sand for pool filters.

 

[ShadowBass]

I just got 100 lbs for $15.00 does that sound alright. It is Quartz Sand for pool filters.

Sounds great. The white quartz sand here in town is 12 dollars per 50lb bag.

 

[Tokis-Phoenix]

I have fine white silica sand (i think its the same stuff as "pool sand") in my tansk for years and it is great, i have never regretted changing from gravel to sand, it is so much easier to keep clean, plants grow better in it too, and looks better too IMHO .