Drilled tank vs Overflow?? DIY??

[Evyllchyld]

I'm almost positive i'm going to be setting up a 29g tank. I'm going to want to make my own sump for it (probably a 10g sump). I don't want to buy an overflow for the tank since they are pretty expensive, has anyone built an overflow box for a tank before?? Or do you guys think I should just drill the tank instead of an overflow box?? I'm open to all suggestions and comments.

-Brian

 

[reefD]

if you can find a good service /person to drill it is way better than an over flow. heck the fact is they do the exact same job ...one takes up less space so the answer is obvious. but again having it done right is the key. after that it is a huge advancement compared to overflow box. overflow does skim more surface area but that can be equaled out with time. always check for tempered glass.!!!! cant drill it cause it will and does crack! like a spider web!

 

[Evyllchyld]

Hmmm, I'm pretty sure the tank i'm getting is made by all-glass, do you know if that cna be drilled?

 

[reefD]

im not sure. but other memebers will chime in ...this topic has been discussed. my input is some companies place a orange/flourencent sticker on any tempered surfaces. ussually on the bottom. so sides are more likly good for drilling but if youve never done it you should let an expert do it. first time i seen someone do it they messed it up! cracks! not easy without glass cutting/drilling experience . even observing the proccess helps. many glass companies will do it for a bottom price. yellow pages has many info.

 

[Evyllchyld]

Alright, I believe my step father can take care of it if i'm not mistaken. If not i'll look through the yellow pages.

 

[reefD]

yep! in any case im sure in 24hrs someone here will chime in with a definent answer about that tanks glass type. maybe you can search the company call them/email/whatever the question of the drilling possibilities. just a thought.

 

[scorp1on]

Have seen on alot of new tanks either the stick on bottom that Dave mentioned or on the sticker on the side facing the custom some have it listed.

 

[jaze36]

Brian, glass drilling is not that hard if you take some precautions and have the right tools. An all -glass tank is just tempered on the bottom you can drill the sides with no problem. Here are my threads on doing it, this was the first tome I tried, and it was way easier than I thought it was going to be. Let me know if you have any questions

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=843278

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=820105

 

[Evyllchyld]

Thanks for the post jaze, That is going to help a lot! I'll PM you if I have any questions.

-Brian

 

[michaelg]

all- glass have tempered bottoms- back would be fine though.
Drill it- overflows are much more likely to fail.

 

[reefD]

heck id bring it to jaze and have him do it. i would give you a fee for your work jaze!lol. seriously it is helpful to have someone give you tips on equipment and techniques. told you they'd chime in! LOL . great forum! CDMAS rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[jaze36]

Thanks David. Personaly I have as much fun with the diy stuff as I do with the tank.

 

[monti-mike]

drilled my 2 20 gallons no problem, with the right bit........

have a bit for glass if u are willing to swap or thow a frag or something my way

any way i recomend the back, buts a personal pref..........have them on shelves with metal racks easier in the back........

for 3/4 or 1 Inches.......bulk head just make sure u order the right ones...
..made that the first time i ordered for my 180 bulkheads........

peace for now,

let me know

mike

 

[scorp1on]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7368245#post7368245 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reefD
always check for tempered glass.!!!! cant drill it cause it will and does crack! like a spider web!

pic about 5 post down http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=841695