Tank build ???

[dragonfish]

I have plans started for a big plywood tank and have a few questions of the experts that I haven't seen in the threads.
1.The tank will be outside on a screened patio. Best way to seal and protect exterior from sun and moisture?
2.Thinking of sandwiching frame between plywood sheets and add insulation in between. Good/bad idea. If so how wide should frame be?
3.Want to set on a couple of layers of block in case of flooding. How stable?
4.Want to add some larger species of plecos. Best sealant to prevent them from chewing through?
5.For interior, could a textured paint be used and sealed for effect? If so what kind of sealant?
Sorry for all the questions but want to get it right the first time. Sure I'll have many more.

 

[dragonfish]

Came up with another question. How to tell if slab it is going on will support weight. Part of the patio is the original slab pour but then was enlarged at a later date. The seam between these two is right where the tank will be. Any potential problems?

 

[Dr Joe]

I have plans started for a big plywood tank and have a few questions of the experts that I haven't seen in the threads.
1.The tank will be outside on a screened patio. Best way to seal and protect exterior from sun and moisture?

Exterior house paint.

2.Thinking of sandwiching frame between plywood sheets and add insulation in between. Good/bad idea. If so how wide should frame be?

Good idea. You didn't say how big. 2'x6' on 12" centers.

3.Want to set on a couple of layers of block in case of flooding. How stable?

Very stable, remember to alternate blocks (like build in a wall or house) and you have to support the whole bottom.

4.Want to add some larger species of plecos. Best sealant to prevent them from chewing through?

Glass . 2nd epoxy resin.

5.For interior, could a textured paint be used and sealed for effect? If so what kind of sealant?

You may have probs. with plecos chewing on a textured surface more than a flat one (more places for algae to grow on).

Sorry for all the questions but want to get it right the first time. Sure I'll have many more.

Came up with another question. How to tell if slab it is going on will support weight. Part of the patio is the original slab pour but then was enlarged at a later date. The seam between these two is right where the tank will be. Any potential problems?

If your laying block it should distribute the weight (put a block over the seam) enough not to cause a problem (is the second slab poured as thick as the first?)

Dr Joe

.

 

[dragonfish]

If your laying block it should distribute the weight (put a block over the seam) enough not to cause a problem (is the second slab poured as thick as the first?)

Dr Joe

.

Yes it is. Just the seam had me worried as a weak spot. Thanks for the reply Dr. Joe.