Common Mistakes to Avoid: Building Own Tank

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
I've got to agree with the above. Try and find another spot because those glass panels are not light and easy to move about!

But, if you can't do that here's a plumbers tip for silicone. Get a spray bottle with metholated spirits in it ready and a few paddle pop sticks. When you do your silicone inside edges,use the paddle pop stick to wipe away the excess. You will get a nice uniform concave profile for the silicone that way. Then give it a light mist with the metho and wipe your finger lightly along the bead to finish the seal. This is the neatest way I've found to do any silicone work and trust me, we do a lot!
 
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Don't want to critisize another member and I may be wrong here. However it was stated to set the glass panels on top of the bottom pane but I believe they actually butt against it. The bottom is then called floating. If someone could verify wich is correct procedure it will help you if you do dismantle this tank.
 
Most tanks with a frame will be sitting on top of the bottom. But If you build your own and have the glass cut to correct sizes you could build it either way. Sides on top of bottom or sides against the side of bottom. Both are common and both ways work.
 
Sides on top of bottom

Sides against the side of bottom
 
For tank this size, it's critical to inject good amount silicone through the seams to fill it. I remember seeing a Japanese video walking you through the steps. I'll find it and post a new thread.
 
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