modifying a preformed pond to make a cheap tank

[turtles]

HI there! well im am planning on doing a large tank project but do not believe i can do a plywood tank as i don't trust my self so i plan to buy a preformed pond similar to the one pictured below its 8ft long 4ft wide 2ft tall as you can see it sort of has bracing on the sides i was wondering if i where to cut out 2 of those braces leaving me aprox a 5.5ft x20" hole in the side and replace it with a 16mm piece of glass that it would keep its structural intergity i was thinking of putting 2 braces on top back to front of where the others will be removed well question is would it work does anybody have any experiance with these ponds or done it befor it would end up saving me a couple thousand dollars if it would work. that is the first idea the secound idea would be to leave the braces there but cut out 3 holes and put 3 windows in i would prefer 1 large panel but budget restricts me
cheers james

 

[joe jaskot]

No experience working with a preformed pond like this, but will offer my opinion. The braces provide the structural integrity to the pond. They keep it from bowing and buckling. Removing them would most likely cause the pond to fail.

Here is another option that might be available: http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/f...fiberglass-tanks-with-viewing-windows.646391/

 

[turtles]

hmm thanks for your opinion ive had a look for these and are still unfortunaly pricy for me ill see what others say may just wing it give it a go or keep it as a pond

 

[spiff44]

Just buy a fiberglass tank with window already on it. They exist and aren't much more then the non-windowed ones

 

[turtles]

Unfortunately I can't seem to get any without importing them witch shoots the price through the roof I've asked several Fibre glassing companies but there prices are around 3.5k as I can get these ponds for 800 see my dilemma? If any body knows of a place in Australia to get them that would help thanks
Cheers James

 

[that_fish_Guy]

I don't know anywhere you would be able to get one in AU. BUT a plywood tank would be cheap enough that you can take a stab at it.....I would say a few hundred dollars at most... All you really need to do is build a box and seal the corners with fiberglass and pond armor the he'll outa the inside...Look up the King of DIY in YT he has a handful of very detailed videos and makes it feel as though anyone can do it.....I have carried out a few of his projects like clockwork..