how to build a tank?

[jimmyj7090]

Unless you are just hell bent on diy, I would put an add on craigslist for a used tank... should be able to pickup a $30 gallon tank for $15 to $20 that needs resealing.

You can use a tube of GE Silicone 1 or GE Sealant (Home Depot near the acrylic panels) for a 30 gallon. It will be just fine. Prep is key to resealing.... I recommend acetone as a degreaser. Allow 24 to 72 hours (more is better) for the silicone to cure.

RTV108 is better for larger tanks, but the Silicone 1 (without mildewicide) is fine for small tanks. I have a 90 gallon resealed with it.

Doing what I'm suggesting here should net you a tank for around $25 and a few hours of work.

There is a difference between "resealing" a tank, and actually holding a tank together.

 

[whipsaw]

There is a difference between "resealing" a tank, and actually holding a tank together.

I built a huge tank using Silicone I, though I admit I didn't really trust it alone so I framed the top and bottom. But it held water fine before I framed it, and it's held 3 years without a seam leak since. I don't really have anything else to compare it to, but it seems to do the job.

 

[jimmyj7090]

Fair enough, but if you could do it again would you sleep a little better knowing you had used the stronger silicone?

 

[whipsaw]

absolutely. Next time around I'll check here first b4 starting.

RTV is the better product as far as I can tell, and both RTV and silicone are so cheap I can't imagine why anyone would want to skimp on it.