Looking for 4' deep plywood build threads

[auratum]

I really didn't need the wetsuite. It was more for another layer of insurance. The fiberglass can be the one and only means of waterproofing. The reason why I added it is because it has great elastic qualities and I've read in the past the downfall of diy tanks in the long run is flex. If fiberglass flexes it will crack. So I tried to make it extra stiff and added the Wetsuite as insurance in case there was any flex. However the Wetsuite doesn't stick to epoxy that well. It sticks but does not bond so there are places at the top of the tank where I had to climb in and out where the Wetsuite peeled off and exposed the epoxied wood. It's still water proof but doesn't look nice. I'm not worried because it's not a submerged area but if that wasn't waterproofed, the humidity and condensation would eventually rot the wood. Having said that the areas submerged where it has not been touched is perfect. There is no bubbling, peeling or separation.

If I were to do it again I would definitely use fiberglass again but maybe think of something else as another layer on top of it.

Thanks for the explanation. I am still a believer in just plain old fiberglass with no additional sealer. If done supported properly and layed up properly with glass it should not crack. You can add pigments right to the epoxy to get the color you desire as well.

 

[808_fairladyz]

I

Thanks for the explanation. I am still a believer in just plain old fiberglass with no additional sealer. If done supported properly and layed up properly with glass it should not crack. You can add pigments right to the epoxy to get the color you desire as well.

Yes! Do the pigment with an epoxy based resin. I used zophar to seal mines because the epoxy resin cost alot more than polyester resin. I found out later in my build that polyester resin is not suitable for long term submersion. The zophar worked good like it's supposed to, but now I wish I had shelled out the extra cash and went with the epoxy/pigment setup. I don't think you need to double up the 2x4 plywood. Just frame it. my aquarium is only 30" high, but with three full layers of chop mat and polyester resin, my aquarium is like a tank with no exterior bracing at all. Applying epoxy over the polyester with pigment would've been perfect.

My Xbox gamer tag: xXclusive808x. Run & gun baby!