Hello, a local pet store has $1/gallon sale and I'd like to pick up some 20 longs. The problem is the tops cost as much as the tanks. In the past I've just bought thin acyrlic from Lowes and laid it over the tanks but that tends to bow quickly. Has anyone had success in building tops?
If I find people trash glass I always find if its tempered or not if not I take it home and cut it to my size. I don't take 3/8" thick glass though. Anything would be 1/4 or less. Then cut the size I want..
You can have a glass shop cut you one and add a hinge and even that trim-able plastic piece for the back by ordering the components from somewhere like Dr. Fosters&Smith but it'll honestly end up being around the same price as one of the glass versa tops (Considering its for a 20 long).
If you just want an inexpensive top to prevent jumping and aren't too worried about evaporation; then you may want to look into light diffuser panel (available at most hardware stores). It won't sag like acrylic but it won't stop evaporation or splashing either.
