Questions on big plywood tank

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

brich999

Jack Dempsey
MFK Member
Jul 3, 2010
4,312
12
38
New Hampshire
ok just a few questions.
1. what do you recommend for a silicone bead around the glass? i was planning on leaving like 2 inches, but i dont know if this is too small of an overlap.
2. 1 really big sump or 2 smaller ones?
3. if i use wetsuit for a sealant, can i leave the bottom bare?
4. if not what is the easiest cleanest substrate or bottom out there?
5. linoleum fake tile stuff work for a bottom? (i figure it would be nice and smooth and i want to do rays.)

THANKS GUYS!

ps stay posted im still just in the planning stage, but should start getting supplies within a week for my 8x4x3 build
 
wetsuit sounded like the best waterproofing material ive heard about so far.
 
I would have taken the time and effort to read some of the other tank builds. They often use fiberglass and epoxy, or gel coat, or liquid rubber.. I dont know what option is the best, but havent read wet suit yet in the builds :)
 
"anyone have any suggestions?"

I'd suggest that 2" is more than enough.

Glass tanks have much less...

"2. 1 really big sump or 2 smaller ones?"

Two sumps will not work, unless they are joined as one...

"5. linoleum fake tile stuff work for a bottom?"

Is it fish safe and water proof?
 
1. what do you recommend for a silicone bead around the glass?
two inches is plenty. many guys go as little as 1''.

When building a tank you will have many unexpected problems. i suggest leaving room for error in every part of your build. this part being one of the,.


2. 1 really big sump or 2 smaller ones?
id suggest one. less things to go wrong.

3. if i use wetsuit for a sealant, can i leave the bottom bare?
ive never messed with wetsuit sealant

4. if not what is the easiest cleanest substrate or bottom out there?

5. linoleum fake tile stuff work for a bottom? i would would worry about the toxicity of the glue. you can use other tile though. many mfkers use tile.
 
brich999;4686157; said:
ok just a few questions.
1. what do you recommend for a silicone bead around the glass? i was planning on leaving like 2 inches, but i dont know if this is too small of an overlap.


THANKS GUYS!

ps stay posted im still just in the planning stage, but should start getting supplies within a week for my 8x4x3 build
Click to expand...

I will forever use 3m 5200, I have 1.5" all around my windows.
 
thanks for all the advice! hopefully i will be picking up some supplies tonight
 
Cant wait to see it. Just a friendly tip try not to complicate things on your design 8x4 is a great footprint ;) it means the only seams you will have will be in the corners and less of a chance for leaks. Just make your joints tight, use deck screws NOT drywall screws and there is no such thing as overkill for the stand and framing.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
MonsterFishKeepers.com
Top Bottom