aquascaping

[spikehs]

When I finally can water in my tank I really want to try and create some unique structures, so i was looking for some advice...I was wondering what is the best way to secure to pieces of lr together to form arches cliffs, etc? I have heard of people use pvc and zip ties...How long can LR stay out of the water? I was planning on putting all the sand in (most anyways) then place the rocks and get em like i want them, then put in the water...I figure this way I know the rock structure will be sturdy and if I want to move stuff around I dont' get massive sand storms..anything wrong with doing it this way? thanks.

Sean