DIY glass aquarium

[muck]

Originally Posted by Der_Iron_Chef

I've been doing some reading on this. Apparently, since the bottom pane is generally thicker, it makes sense to silicone the side panes NEXT to it instead of on top, so that the area where the two connect is bigger. More area, more silicone, stronger bond.

I don't think I'm explaining it well...does it make sense? I was at Wai's the other day and inspected the big a$$ display tank there, and his were also designed this way.

Chef's right it will be a stronger bond provided you go with a thicker bottom pane if the side panes are siliconed on the outside instead of on top. But i find it easier (and with a 40G it won't make a difference really) to silicone the side panes on top. Myself and Russ built a number of tanks and haven't had any problems.

A couple tips though..

1. Use thicker glass than you would need (if you can).
2. Measure twice or three times before you cut (of course this is a moot point if you are buying the pieces already precut).
3. Lubricate your glass cutter to help it slide/score the glass easier. (WD40 works good for this)
4. Use lots of silicone but try not to play with it too much trying to make it "look better". The more you fiddle the worse it will look. (True Story..)
5. Always work with a couple cold ones near by.

Good Luck..

P.S. Moving to the DIY Forum.

[Mik_101]

Well have fun with it and post pictures along the way.

[LeeR]

is having the bottom pane thicker really that important if your tank isn't that tall but has a large surface area. say 24X12X24 (L.H.W)

[Der_Iron_Chef]

My understanding is that having a thicker bottom pane serves two purposes:

1) For the stronger bond, as I mentioned above
2) If you want to drill it, having thicker glass will obviously be stronger, and help maintain structural integrity

I have very little experience in this practically speaking, though, so perhaps others could chime in!