how to build a tank?
- Thread starter jack3344
- Start date
der_wille_zur_macht
Team RC
Can you give us some more background on what you are looking for? Size? Material?
TheFishTeen
New member
My acrylic 30 Gal. uses 1/4th acrylic and it's got some nasty deflection across the front. I would go thicker.
gr1mm
New member
how tall is your tank? you might just need better bracing on the top to keep the tank from bowing, if he has the money let him go for thicker.
gr1mm
New member
you can find all this information on youtube.com just type in "how to build a fish tank" or "diy fish tank"
If you are able to cut the acrylic and get a smooth edge you can weld the seams with Weldon #4. Be sure to use a cell cast acrylic. The best info you can get on how to work with Acrylic is right here on this site, "Do It Yourself" Look up Acrylic Fabrication Questions, I can Help" There is all the info you need to know on how to be successful in working with Acrylic.
There has got to be plenty of threads here on RC that show the ins and outs of building a glass tank. Just do a search for Glass Tank Builds.
IMO glass would be easier. I have only built with Acrylic cause I had it on hand . I also have a full work shop of the proper tools to work it.
There has got to be plenty of threads here on RC that show the ins and outs of building a glass tank. Just do a search for Glass Tank Builds.
IMO glass would be easier. I have only built with Acrylic cause I had it on hand . I also have a full work shop of the proper tools to work it.
mattyp54
New member
I would go with glass for your first build all you have to do is get the size rims you need and then go to any glass/mirror store and tell them what the sizes of glass you need and they will cut it for you and then stop by a home improvement store on the drive home and pick up a tube of sylicone I (clear) an assemble the peices of glass just like any other fish tank and run a bead of sylicone in each angle and use your finger to smooth the bead out and let it dry overnight before you fill with water and thats it.
I agree with most of this. I would not use the silicone from the Local Box store. I would do some more research on a silicone called RVT 103 or 108
You can order it from Grainger In my understanding it has better holding strength than the other type.
Even 30 gal of water will cause a lot of damage.
Read, Read, Read
griffithimage
New member
plywood with epoxy over top is an easy way to build a tank. The issue is with that a tank that small it is more economical to buy one. Much more fun to build your own however. go to fingerlakesreefs and they have some great build threads
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.
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.
TheFishTeen
New member
Really? Is this US wide or only your local store? I'd love to go pick up some extra tanks!
tkeracer619
New member
I thought it ended sunday. Best deal is 40g breeders.
Also. If you order the glass make sure to leave room for silicone.
You can easily use silicone 1.
Also. If you order the glass make sure to leave room for silicone.
You can easily use silicone 1.
bigfoot610
New member
it is confirmed the sale in colorado is over the 40 breeders are up to 53 and change still not a bad price for them tho i would buy a tank because the acrylic for a 30 gallon will probably cost more like 100 to build if not more 
jimmyj7090
aka John K
But beware, there are some really bad u-tube videos out there that give terrible advice on materials and techniques.
Similar threads
