Ok, i want to build an aquarium for a conversation peace (and yes i would take care of it not just to show off to friends) i want to build one that is like 5x8x3(5 width-8 length-3 tall) or 5x7x3...
What materials would i need?
And i know an aquarium doesnt happen over night but if do this right it will be beautiful...
We already have some fish and crabs and the other stuff in mind but i need to know how to build myself, cause i really dont want to pay some to do it for me, unless i had to.
We already have some space sutible for it.
Thanks in advance
2007-08-24 03:21:13 · 6 answers · asked by HelpTheConfused 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
i have pleanty of fish experince thank... i just dont know how to build a tank...but is there just i place were i can give my measurements to so they could build it for me, i live in gwinnett, GA and was wondering if ther was a place...But thanks for the help pleasent people(see pleanty of dead fish) you wish)
2007-08-24 08:06:04 · update #1
Go here http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/ and sign up. Those guys can help you out with any questions you have. There is a big DIY section on there.
2007-08-24 03:24:48 · answer #1 · answered by Pootski 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all, you need to run some numbers.
If that 5 x 8 x 3 is feet, you're talking about
7680 pounds of water. (64lb./ Cu. Ft.)
Can you build a frame to take that weight?
Will the floor you are putting it on support it?
Will an unsupported 8' section of the glazing
take the pressure?
I think you had better scale this down a bit.
2007-08-24 08:06:36 · answer #2 · answered by Irv S 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You need to get the glass cut for it by a glazier... extra thick glass. get him to bevel it at the edges to make it safe. then it's simply a matter of assembling it using silicone sealant, and attaching some reinforcing leats internally using the same sealant. also, some glass slats internally near the top going from one side to the other will serve as both support for the structure and a lid. attach a light source to the inside of the lid, taking all the necessary precautions to ensure that water doesn't come into contact with any of the electrical contacts.
2007-08-24 03:28:35 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Keep in mind that the dimensions of store bought aquairums are carefully thought out. The pressures on the water inside can split an aquarium if one side is supporting more pressure than another, so keep in mind that you may need to alter your dimensions so it dosent collapse!
2007-08-24 03:27:44 · answer #4 · answered by comtnman2003 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It'll cost more to build one than to buy one already done. Are your dimensions in inches, feet, meters? You need clear silicon for aquarium use. and the 1/2" glass edges need to be polished. Does a reflector fit your dimensions? Have you thought about that? You can buy tanks predrilled for filters. You need a big filter to handle a large tank. You have no experience with aquariums yet you want a gigantic tank. I see a lot of dead fish in your future.
2007-08-24 04:09:35 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
to me, the frame for this is the critical point. go the the pet store and see how some of the commercial units are framed. call a local aquarium builder and get their price on building you one. then price the materials and make your choice.
2007-08-24 04:38:49 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋