Black vinyl background?

[Cicho]

I am looking for some information regarding using black vinyl, like what you would get for a car wrap or vinyl sign, and applying it like tint to the back of the tank.

I am a little apprehensive to paint the back of the tank for fear of future scratches so I wanted to investigate this vinyl prior to putting the tank in place.

By the way the tank is a 150g 72x27 tall.

Thanks!

 

[Cicho]

To be more clear about my intent:

There are opaque window or glass films available for security purposes, primarily for commercial applications.

Has anybody used these on their tank?

 

[ryanoh]

Yes, I have window tint on the back of my tanks. Its not totally opaque, but it works well and you can't see through it unless you're trying to.

 

[Cicho]

Yes that is exactly the idea. There are window films for 0% light transmission or 100% black out applications. This is the route I am trying to investigate.

Did you install yourself?

 

[EmilyMarie85]

I used black vinyl decal - can't see through it at all. I installed it (with the help of my husband) on my 125g and 210g.

125g was a little rough, no overflow boxes so it was one giant sheet. And we didn't use the spray stuff on that tank (BIG mistake) - so we ended up with some bubbles. But, I planted that tank so it isn't really that noticeable.

210g was easier, and came out perfect. This tank had overflows so we cut the vinyl into 3 pieces and applied 1 piece at a time. We did use the spray stuff on this one, which made it a lot easier. Here is a pic of the 210 right after we finished installing the background.

 

[stingraybob]

I used black vinyl on my 75...came in a roll 6' long by 2' tall...installs just like window tint, except when you want to remove it, theres no mess...it just peels right off, i love it...this is what i used...its a no brainer if you dont want to paint or use regular window tint

 

[Cicho]

Stingraybob,

Yes I saw this material at AutoZone.

I wasn't sure if the 5% light transmission allows ANY visibility through the back of the tank.

I don't want to move this tank to redo the background hopefully ever!

 

[tanharold]

not bad. I think it looks good with whited sand.

 

[Cicho]

not bad. I think it looks good with whited sand.

That's my exact plan. I have ~200 lbs of white ColorQuartz at the ready.

 

[Jer]

What's the cost of this material?