I have wanted to get some Ice for awhile...very interested in this thread...

You say your getting the droops...What is your feeding schedule?

Also, you are right not to nute them until you see roots growing strongly out of r'woll cubes. then use no more than a 50% solution the 1st week.

As far as algae; Get some panda plastic at the hydro store and put black side down after cutting slits in plastic to allow you to slide it in around the stems of your plants.
you don't ever want to leave your roots exposed to light.