first large tank build

[meisel1]

I'm in the process of building my first large tank. It will be a 150 gallon going in the basement. The tank will measure 60x24x24, using all 5/8 glass with starphire on the front face. Construction will be flush floating bottom set on full coverage base with polystyrene foam underneath. I have built 4 other smaller tanks before this one and they're all still in use so I'm confident this will be a success as well,
however I have a few questions.... with a glass thickness of 5/8 do I need bracing? ...If I do, do I need to brace the inside bottom perimeter? If yes how thick and how wide does the glass need to be? And at what point does the bracing go on? And will I need to euro brace the top all around or just the front and rear? There seem to be so many views and opinions on this subject that I'm starting to over think and confuse myself...I have had 100 gallon tanks before that were made using 1/2" with only the plastic trim on them and they lasted for years...So am I over building,under building??? getting lost here... any help or direction would be great..cheers.... Bob

 

[shocker444]

Your questions are better suited for the large reef tank build thread good luck with the build sounds like it will be a good one

 

[meisel1]

71 looks and the only reply is to look in large tank forum....posted in large tank forum and got a reply that says tank is to small.....sad

 

[BrandonFlorida]

yeah large tank thread is for 180 or over. not sure why they said to go there for a 150 gallon. I wish I could help you but ive never built a tank. good luck and I hope someone chimes in, they are usually pretty good at helping people on here.

 

[rds85]

Bob,

5/8" glass is pretty thick. I have a rimless 120 that is only 1/2. I am not an expert or anything. But from seeing several different tanks set up. I would say you could leave the flat bottom with no bracing. and implement euro bracing on the top to prevent bowing (does not have to 5/8 thick, i would say 1/2" max). Otherwise that thick of glass can handle a lot more than you think. This is just my opinion. If you are worried for any reason it can never hurt to over build a tank. If you think about how much money and time we spend on these glass boxes, some people feel safer with over building. Just my opinion

Ryan

 

[meisel1]

thanks guys I think I'll just over build and make it apocalypse proof...