How much did your DIY tank cost?

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
A

adriggsvt

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Oct 18, 2009
42
0
0
Roanoke, VA
Title says it all, how much did your DIY tank build set you back?
Include:
Tank size
Construction materials
How long did it take
Pics if you have them!

:popcorn:
 
Sounds like a good thread, what about the filtration and lighting as well?

Misc.equipment can cost alot as well
 
ye id like to know myself, most people have an idea of what filtration costs but id like to know that as well, most important would be cost of making the tank.
 
I estimate that mine will cost under $1 per gallon when completed and that includes the 2" 50"x99" acrylic window.

Cost breakdown estimate

lumber 750-800 including first attempt
screws 220
liquid nails 80
dow 795 190
acrylic 1566.38 (was 1674.63, but got 108.25 credit for them sending wrong size)

About $2800 so far.

Still have to buy liquid rubber @ $892.

$3692 total, so about 85 cents a gallon
Click to expand...

I've spent about 500 since this. Some of which I have left over and would deduct from the overall cost. There's some costs that aren't related to building the tank i.e. the vents for the ceiling, paint for the room, etc. that I have to deduct from my Lowe's receipts as well.
 
Figuring $500 out the door.. Filtration,wood,sealant,glass,etc,etc
 
50.00 (sealing tank,screws,glue)

pond pump 120.00

sump (20 gallon rubbermaid )free (drawer tower 10.00)

stand free.

glass still not purchased about 100.00

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/fo...=300289&page=2
progress.gif
 
Totals for my build:)

Ply sheets 2700mm x 1200mm x 32mm@ $69 ea (Got these for a steal) = $276
Screws were free
Builders bog = $39
30m x 1m of 300gsm woven roving mat = $260
18L Boat Cote marine Epoxy = $340
Black epoxy pigment = $12.73
Epoxy solvent for clean up = $20
Silicone = $67
Polycarbonate lids = $60
Plumbing and lid hold down pipes = $90
36 x Besser blocks = $115
19mm Glass = $1400 delivered
Total = $2679.73
 
Do you find these to be more cost effective?

I understand many DIY setups have leaks eventually. I guess it is up to the extra time spent preping ang planning.

I guess you cant add the labor into the cost, the hours have to add up quickly
 
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