Much better workmanship than the last video I watched. Good to see your silicone used sparingly, the last build I watched was just a mess of materials.
Hi, great video... I have an old Hagen 120g tank. 1/2" Glass. It leaked so I tore it apart and cleaned it... the original factory trim held the bottom panel up into the wall panels about 1/2" or so. My question is, when I rebuild this tank can I make it a flat bottom? Or do I have to make it "Float" on the trim like it was from the factory? Any info will help... thanks for the video
Great video Dan. Thank you very much for your time to make it. Most helpful. I was wondering your opinion though on what's the difference, (Strength, ease of construction ETC?) for building a tank with sides sitting on top of the base as opposed to having the sides sitting against the base as in your videos, especially for larger tanks E.G 1800 mm long x 600 mm high and 600 mm wide using 10 mm thick plate glass with top and cross bracing ?
+Mustardo1 Easy answer to this one, I have no idea why anyone would do it the hard way. Putting the sides around the base is faster, less mess and stronger, no matter what the size. Been doing it that way for 40 years for tanks up to 5.4 metres long (18 foot) with standard glass.
helpful video & thanks for the awesome work, quick question - for a tank size 100cmx45cm (8mm glass) is it safe to put the panels together around the bottom pane rather than on top of it?
Hello, really nice video. I want to build a 65G, which is 36x18x24 and I would like to know if I can use this method, or do I need to go with the sides on the top of the bottom which I don't want to do. Also, can I use the same thickness for all the glasses? Thanks,
+Vincent David Guerrero Peña It does not matter, you can put the sides on the top if you want but it is just much harder to build and slightly less strong. I never put the sides on top, for any tank.
+Dj Dyno Hi, with all due respect to the hobby sites, this is a not a question about fish, this is about engineering. My fault for being a bit slow to answer Vincent's question but I've done that now. cheers Dan
Danhug49 Thank you very much for your answer! but I think I'll go with a bigger size and plywood with a view panel, cause the glass of thickness I need is too expensive!
I went to the site but the measurments I wanted don't seem to be available. I was hoping to do a 3ft W x 3ft H x 1 1/2ft D tank with 2/8 inch glass. Is there a reason the height would be an issue? Could this be done rimless? Or would I need a brace? Lastly would drilling a 45mm hole in the glass for an overflow be ok with those measurements?
Height is the most critical factor in building an aquarium. Once you get past 750mm the pressure must be given a lot of attention to not only ensure the bottom does not blow out but to allow for distortion across the span from top to bottom. The calculation you want is beyond the capabilities of this engineering program. A new site will be launched shortly that caters for taller and longer tanks, up to 18 foot long using standard thickness glass. I suggest you use 12mm minimum glass for what you have in mind. At that thickness and height, a brace is borderline at a width of 3ft. Generally, holes have little of no effect.
Love the video. Looks very easy. I would like to use this idea to make a glass display case to encase a wood model ship. I will construct a wood base and sit the glass aquarium over the base. My question to you is: Would the corners that are siliconed have a good enough finish or "look" to be used as a display case? Thank you
Sorry for the late reply. Yes, but if you've never used silicone before, it takes some practice to get the right size bead and to remove the excess. This is part of the manual that normally ships with plans/ cutting sheets and instructions from the web site. Essentially you are building an aquarium that doesn't need the bracing.
Hi Dan. Turns out that tank I was making worked and has been housing fish for ages. So thanks for the sage advice. I have a question if you can find the time to answer about another tank. I still have glass lying around from an old attempt. It is 8mm thick glass (I was overly cautious) with the dimensions 700x300x400. Presumably the centre brace is only for bowing... so would this tank hold (of siliconed correctly) as is? No brace? Thanks in advance. Mike.
G'day Michael, I'm pleased you have been able to build so successfully. Regarding the old tank, I'd be confident filling it without a brace, if as you say, the silicone is done correctly. The main hurdle will be getting every last particle of silicone off the glass. The easy way is to turn it inside out.
Hi Michael, could I have your permission to use your comment on the web site? If so, perhaps you might also like to comment on the use of the manual and or anything else you think is relevant. Thanks Dan
Hi. I've noticed from your video that the side panels joins the edge of the base compare to most DIY I've seen where the sides sit on the bottom glass. Do you have reasons when to do it this way and why? Any pros and cons between the two methods? Also, if you don't mind me asking, would it be safe to build a rough 50-55 G tank without braces or frames dimension is 45x18x18 inches 1/2 thick glass? Thank you in advanced.
Patrick Agustin Simple. Why do it the hard way for no benefit? No difference in strength. FOr your proposed tank, I'd have to do a calculation but no braces has risks. In theory, if the glass is thick enough to resist the pressures, you can skip the braces. I don't.
Hi Dan, great little video; thank you :) I just wanted to ask... when the last panel @ 2:34 is going up, it looks as though the edges are recessed. Are they? It may just be the silicone making it look that way to me...
awesome video sir just wanted to know the glass thickness for a aquarium size of 4feet length 18inch height 18inch width plz suggest me the glass thickness thanks in advance
Like all aquariums, you can pretty much use any thickness if you use the right braces to match. In this case the height is quite modest so you could easily get away with 6mm is you use the right longitudinal and cross brace. Really recommend going to the web site and ordering a set of plans that will give you all that information including 3 options for glass thickness and a tutorial. designs4aquariums.com. Its a secure site.
Dan Hughes hello again Sorry if i misunderstood you about my question. I mean is it the video about reassemble the tank is only for frames (no braces) tank? Because my tank is old tank and had a bubbles between the glass. And may i know what thickness of glass for 55 gal tank? Thank you
The tank in the video was assembled just to show the correct method and later have the braces added. There is no reason to have a fully framed aquarium. Just add the correct longitudinal and cross glass braces and it will be fine. Thickness of glass depends on the height of the water, not the volume so I can't give you a single thickness. You can use many different thickness of glass, depends on braces and water height. Check out the website www.designs4aquariums.com. You can order a set of plans for any size tank you need that will tell you all you need to know.
Tempered glass is stronger (3 times) and more flexible but can shatter without warning even years later, due to an occasional manufacturing contaminate (called nickel sulphide infusion). Other than that risk, the only other constraint is that tempered glass cannot be cut or significantly machined, so holes have to be in place before tempering.
Thanks, yes, 8mm is probably fine but length has no bearing on thickness. Several other thicknesses are ok too depending on the bracing set up. It's more about engineering the bracing to suit the water height, than thickness.You can get more info from the web site. www.designs4aquariums.com
Mick Wilczynski On small tanks you can get away with just the silicone between the glass. On larger ones a bead is put along the joins and all done together so there are no joins between wet and dry silicone.
Dan Sir, in most of the videos, front glass is fixing on bottom glass...but you have fixed it on edge of bottom glass....Which is better? Please advise..
Hello. I've gone to the site but it's very limited. I noticed that you surrounded the bottom of the aquarium instead of letting to top pieces (front and sides) rest on the bottom like I'm used to seeing. I want to design a larger aquarium due to your video motivating me. The dimensions that I want is 50" (L) x 30" (H) x 32" (W). Approximately a 207.79 gallon aquarium. I would like to start off smaller the first time first. Something along the lines of 36" (L) x 24"(H) x 32" (W). Roughly a 119.69 gallon aquarium. Will I have to brace the bottom just like the top and do I need a styrofoam bottom? You help is desperately needed. Thanks
I'm considering building my own tank, as I don't want an incredibly large amount of water, but I want the tank to be considerably long, because my cichlids seem to only utilize the bottom portion of the tank. So I want the height and depth to be that of a 20H, but with a 7 foot length. What do you think would be an appropriate panel thickness for these dimensions? Thanks!
+David Harris The glass thickness is governed by two things, the height (primarily) and the design of the braces (if any). Simply put, the taller the tank the more thickness and bracing you need. A long shallow tank is the other extreme where very thin glass and no bracing is required. What you want, is somewhere between. If you only want a height of 400 or 450 (18 inches in American) 6mm (quarter inch) would be Ok so long as you run a brace along both top long edges and add at least one cross brace.
I been in glass business for many years also and never seen a tank made that way..... It looked nice but how strong is that structure when its filled with water? You had all the glass at the sides of the base rather than on top..... is this safe?
What kind of glass would be best to us and how much will the pieces usually go for? also where could i buy the glass and sealant? Also im in the US so would there be any differences better?
Hi Tommy, you are best to get your sizes ready and get a quote from a couple of your local glass suppliers. The sealant is silicone and you need to get a construction version which is usually also available from the glass company. I recommend getting the construction manual and the exact sizes you need from the web site. It's cheap and has all the information you need. www.designs4aquariums.com
I would like one, to meet the space avilable, 3'L, 1.5'W, 2.5'H but before I would like to ask about the glass used. Either 3mm thick glass is best or 5mm. Waiting for your answer
If you go the the web site, you will be able to have plans done that will include 3 different glass thicknesses. All 3 will be suitable, with different bracing, so you choose which one you want to use. In any case, 3mm will not be suitable and 5mm may not either but it would need to be checked to see which one to use. www.designs4aquariums.com is where you get all the answers.
Sorry for the delayed response, I been out of town. Standard annealed glass is best bet. Treatment to enhance certain qualities (eg flexibility, impact resistance, heat variation resistance, human impact concerns etc) all have conflicting issues that make them less suitable for aquariums.
very nice video 👍 what is the glass thickness you usually recommend? 6mm thick or 8mm thick ?..I want to build an aquarium with dimensions of 140cm×40cmx30cm ( LxHxW)..any help please? and is it the normal silicon in the building section or another type of silicon. .? thank you in advance
Everything you need to know about building is done in more detail on the website. Plans and the manual include 3 thicknesses of glass that are suitable, all about the silicone and clear directions in how to assemble you own tank and what traps to avoid. Go to www.designs4aquariums.com
At the time I had my men put that tank together, I owned the glass company, but you can look up glass companies for your local area. You'll need a cutting list of sizes. Go to the website to get a plan www.designs4aquariums.com. It's a secure site so you can buy a plan and manual safely and quite cheap.
Hi, I want your opinion on the aquarium. I plan to build a plywood aquarium, just like you. Measurements: 1.20cm W X 0.42cm W, the H is 0.50cm my house (apartment) is located on the second floor I wonder about the final weight. Can my project be feasible?
hi dan! quick question, I am attempting to rebuild a 100 gallon glass aquarium. Thickness is 1/2". dimensions are 72" length 15.5" width and 22" height. With larger tanks do you need to space the glass panels for the silicone to have a stronger bond? I want to do this project right so I dont ruin my floors! Thanks for your time!
+Tim Acedo G'day Tim, if you use my method, the silicone thickness is measured in micons however I have no evidence to suggest the making it thicker has any benefit, quite the opposite I think, but we'd need a chemist to tell us that for sure. I've built some truely enormous tanks and never had one let go, although I use a secondary concave seal on all the big ones just to be 100%. At just 22", your aquarium has a low risk already so charge ahead my friend.
Hi Dan, some fish tank maker fix side glasses on top of base glass, I think they doing it wrong because it will cause extra burden on base glass, I like the way you doing it, can u update that the way they doing is wrong. Thanks for nice video
Thanks for your comment. Putting the sides on top will not cause any undue stress on the base but it really makes it difficult to build for no benefit and marginally less strength.
Hi Dan. I have been trying to get into building my own tank for a while now. I built one and it failed. Took it apart and re made it. Failed again. 70 x 30 x 40. no centre brace. After some extra research apparently my silicone was useless. Tec 7? Luckily I tested all this for 4 weeks each time. I am starting a new one with Aquamate Aquarium Silicone. Height, Width and Length is 450x350x350. Would you think I would need a centre brace for this considering its short, square shape? Love the video. I have watched it many times.
+Michael Gilbert. G'day Michael, I've been using Dow Corning standard clear 470 now for many many years and used a few others as well with no issues. The main consideration I guess is that silicone is a one-time, one-shot event. It is very difficult to remove old silicone to the point where new silicone will stick to the glass with reliability. It sure will not stick to itself. As for the braces, no in a little tank like that. I think of bracing in general terms as 'cubing' the water, that is, putting in a brace that will make the water into a roughly cube shape. For example, a 600 high x 1200 long x 600 would have one cross brace to make two 'cubes' of water about 600 x 600 x 600. Does that make sense? The new Glass Engineering Calculator will be available on the web site in the next few weeks and that will provide a lot of answers and every bit of info needed for aquariums up to 8 metres (25 foot). Should be live by end of November if all goes well.
+Dan Hughes Ok awesome. Thanks for the reply! On the older tank I scraped all silicone off and cleaned the smudges with white spirits until there was no visible signs of silicone. Is there enough invisible residue to cause issue would you think? And thank you for clearing up the centre brace issue. One more thing if you wouldn't mind. Would it be safe to use frosted glass of the same thickness in conjunction with the rest? As a background. 1 back piece.
+Michael Gilbert I'm afraid I don't know enough of the chemistry to be sure, but I would have thought your cleaning was enough to do the trick. Obviously not, but turning the glass the other way may have been better, using the unsullied side. Re the obscure glass, no problem in the small aquariums. Obscure (patterned) glass only comes in a maximum thickness of 6mm and is about 85% of the strength of the equivalent clear. It is possible though to take thicker glass and treat it with an acid etch to make it obscure. You can also paint the back which is the more common method.
+Dan Hughes Thank you very much for the help. We'll see how the new aquarium turns out. All your help is greatly appreciated and I hope you make some more videos.
What should be the exact size of the panels to make a 55 Gallon. I know it is 48 x 13 x 21, please give the exact size of front panel, bottom and side panel, so that they all fit together. Thank you for your help. Salim from Dubai
You need a set of plans with all the braces too and the manual to show you the best construction method. Go to the secure web site and down load all the information for any size aquarium. designs4aquariums.com
Sir, I'm planning to build an aquarium for size L-3' x W-12" x H-20". What thickness should I prefer for glass ? Is upper and lower brace needed for this size ?
As the height is quite modest, bracing and thickness are not a problem. You could get by with 10mm and no top brace or thinner and longitudinal braces at least. There are no lower braces in a well designed aquarium.
We are probably talking about the same thing but without a drawing, photo or plan I can't say for sure. It seems likely from what you have said so far that you do not have a problem.
I still have no clue what thickness glass or type of silicone to use, shouldn't it have been in this how to video? I know you say the info is on your site, but isn't this what a how to video is for.. The assembly part was great btw, I learned something new so thumbs up.
+Pingo bags I know it is frustrating but the thickness has little to do with the size of the aquarium and all to do with how it is built. Almost any aquarium could be built using at least 3 different thicknesses depending on the engineering. Really that is one of the benefits of getting a plan done. On the other hand, I can settle the issue of which silicone to use, look for a structural silicone and ignore any references to its being unsuitable for aquariums. Dow Corning is international but most manufacturers produce structural grade and that will do the job just fine.
I can't remember for sure but just by looking at the video, I'd say about 900 on the length and roughly 500 on the height and front-to-back probably 450. The thickness would have been 6mm but we could have used another thickness as that is determined by the braces, which would have been fitted later. You can get a copy of the construction manual setting out thicknesses, cutting sizes and braces for any size aquarium you want by going to the secure web site designs4aquariums.com
Dear Sir, - Arrangement of glass sheets to be glued Q1> When should one choose to glue the side on the top of the base plate and when to glue em to the side of the glass base (In the video you glued it to the sides of the base, isn't that a problem.. side panels glued to side.. on top of base would be better right ?) Q2> Left and right sides.. is it better to be tucked between the front and back sheets (& bottom) or cover the entire side - Roughing the surface Q3> how to make sure that my adhesive sticks to the smooth glass, should I grind the surface which needs to be glued what the best way to rough the surface to be glued ?
Q1. There is no reason to put the sides on the top of the base. In fact, there are two very good reasons for surrounding the base with the sides. 1. Construction is much easier and 2. as the silicone is stronger in tension that in shear, the aquarium is stronger. Q2. Making the sides longer covers the edge of the ends so is aesthetically more pleasing but makes no difference to the strength. Q3. Silicone has high adhesion with smooth glass and there is no need or benefit to rough the surface.
Thank you Sir, So I can take the next step confidently towards building my own Aquarium. (I have a ~3.5 Gal Bowl n my bro has a 35 Gal (30x15x15) tank), I wanted to build my own (36x18x18) freshwater, more fun in building than buying. I dream of a perfect Planted aquarium with few tiny fishies =D
Building your own aquarium is no much more satisfying than just buying from a store. For preference you would get a set of plans and a manual to help you avoid the problems that can arise. See www.designs4aquariums.com Good luck.
i have to make Aquarium at home self 36" inch long, 18" inch width & height 18" inch 6mm glass. Give me detail about what should be length, width & height of glass in inch that will be attach with silicon in inches. in your video i didn't find any idea about length, width and height all in inches
hi , could you please tell me the glass dimensions required for making a 3ft by 1ft glass coz last time.. last time when i took exact dimensions, there was a half inch variation in the sides.
Hi, you can order glass from one of your local glass suppliers. You must specify the glass thickness and exact sizes. As with the previous comment, I really recommend you get the sizes and construction manual from the web site. It's cheap and makes sure the build goes smoothly and you have no disasters. www.designs4aquariums.com
No bead of silicone run on the inside edges and smoothed out with a finger to make it water tight? I've never seen an aquarium making video with out that step. Your video just seems to show the structural silicone and not the sealing silicone.
You are quite right and the reason is the video is there to demonstrate the correct method for construction. Once the tank is made we normally run a bead along the inside edges as a secondary seal, although a small aquarium like the one shown would be fine without it. The last part, the fitting of the braces has also been left out as this was only intended as a correction for the people locating the sides on top of the base. I'm considering doing another showing the whole process, done in less than 10 minutes.
Any glass supplier will be able to do it. If you get a plan from the website, the manual explains more fully about edgework and trade terminology for the different edge types but in the video we were using a 'flat polish'. Your glass supplier will charge you more for this but it's worth it for the top edge at least. The rest you can use a flat grind or even a smooth arris.
Building your own is great fun. If you haven't already, I'd recommend you go to the web site and download the plans, cutting sizes, thicknesses and bracing plan for the size you want. Once you have the manual that comes with it, you can have fun without the worry of it crashing on you. Good luck. www.designs4aquariums.com
The higher the water level, the more possibility of having a failure. I would use a couple of light longitudinal braces if I intended filling it to the top.
Dan the man! Nice simple video. I'm watching it because I'm about to assemble my aquarium right now and even though I feel fully confident in doing it, I love to prepare like hell. The video lacks some key info. I'd like to know the approximate size of the bead of silicone he's putting down, in inches. I'm sure that depends on glass thickness. My glass is 1/4" thick. Second bit of info lacking is simply which sides overlap, its hard to see. My end pieces are the full width, so the front and back butt to the ends. I'm using recycled glass shelving and due to cutting reasons this is how I have to assemble. I hope that doesn't matter too much in the construction and how strong the seam will be. My tank is only 33" long by 11.5" wide by 9.5" tall, so its only around 15 gallons.
Thanks Nathan, glad you enjoyed the video. It was only demo showing how a pro can build an aquarium in a few minutes so it does not touch on some critical points as you pointed out. Fyi, the silicone bead you can use as roughly equal to the glass thickness. You can build with the side overlapping the ends which gives the nicer finish to the front or as you are doing, the ends overlapping the front where you see the end grain edge of the ends. The other critical thing not in the video is the bracing which in your case does not matter given the dimensions of your aquarium.
I own my own tile laying business and I can tell you that running a bead of silicone is different than any other water based or water cleanup caulking. If you got it, you got it. I've had guys that couldn't do that at all and guys that do in a week or so, the latter being very rare.
It's an art. Next time you see two shop front glass panels without metal between, take a look at the join. Glaziers get pretty good at it, but of course, there are tricks to the trade too, which make it a lot easier.
As far as I am aware, UV glue is not recommended for underwater use, although new types have probably been developed since the last time I used it. I think it is intended to be a permanent fix.
Resealing an aquarium usually means replacing the secondary seal, that is the seal that is put on the inside joins and does not include taking the tank apart and replacing the primary seal between the panels. It is critical that you remove all traces of the existing silicone which sounds easy but is quite tedious. You will need several single sided razor blades and some dish washing detergent. Don't skimp on the razor blades, use several at least, even if they feel sharp. The glass must finish up squeaky clean.
+MaxiFate Good question. It depends on a number of factors, first which country you live in and the proximity of medium to large glass companies that can deliver. It also depends on the dimensions which will determine the thickness required. Quite a few things to consider even for a small aquarium like this.
Sorry to be slow in replying, I didn't see your question earlier. Bracing is the critical part of the aquarium, more important than the thickness. There are thousands of possible combinations so I can only suggest if you are serious about building your own, to get a set of plans and a manual from the web site. It's well worth it. www.designs4aquariums.com Let me know if I can help in some way.
Mm yes I think I understand now why installing the vertical panes around the base pane instead of atop it is recommended by the experienced builders. Assuming you use a formula to find the desired glass thickness, what Safety Factor values do you apply to the different build types (top braced, bottom braced, unbraced, etc.)?
+billforigno Design, especially in glass, is difficult, more so in open top containers like aquariums. Few structural engineers even, feel confident guaranteeing the viability of an aquarium larger than the small, basic 8 foot aquarium where you can simply use the thickest glass. We design aquariums in lengths up to 18 foot with a single front and rear pane using standard thickness glass but the formulas are complex and the relationship of transferred resistance across the face of the glass is a significant factor. This makes large aquariums financially viable. For example, we can engineer a design for a 25 foot aquarium that is cheaper to build than 3 eight footers.
+Dan Hughes (Repost due to RUclips censorship) Thanks for the quick reply. So the calculations are just as much about deciding where/how to place structural supports as they are about ascertaining the required glass thickness. What exactly is defined as standard thickness glass?
+billforigno Yes, you are absolutely spot on about the design and placement of structural support being the critical factor. The thickness of the glass is far less important than the bracing but popular opinion gives far more weight to the thickness, even going so far as to tie the length to thickness (which always brings on a smile). To answer your question, standard glass thicknesses used in aquariums are 6, 8, 10 and 12mm. For taller aquariums we also use 15mm and occasionally, 19mm.
Aquariums are held together and sealed with silicone, hence a silicone gun is required. I have never used a hot glue gun on an aquarium, partly because silicone works so well but partly because there is a vast range of hot melt glues with 11 main base component types and a dozen additives. A chemist may be able to recommend a mixture that works on aquariums, having the four primary attributes of high bonding rate, flexibility, UV resistance and water impermeability.
As per the comment below... You need a set of plans with all the braces too and the manual to show you the best construction method. Go to the secure web site and down load all the information for any size aquarium. designs4aquariums.com
Thickness does not relate to length. You could use either 6mm or 8mm and I've made them with 4mm and 5mm with the right bracing. You need to go to the website for more information. designs4aquariums.com
+Ph Wagz thanks, and yes it is simple. A bit of practice helps though. The guy, Justin, in the video can cut and machine the glass AND assemble the tank in 14 minutes but 8 of those minutes are waiting for the glass to run through the glass edge polisher.
Perhaps we are checking the wrong link. Can you tell me where you are trying to connect. The live link on the video seems to be OK but could be an issue for you. I'll try to fix if you can let me know where you're looking. cheers Dan
You have 499 subs but only one video :D, shoot I'll be #500 :D I was wondering does it make a difference if you have the 4 walls go around the base glass ( Like in the video ), or if the 4 walls sat on top of the base glass?
To my shame, I have been neglecting uploading more videos, something I intend to address very soon. To answer your question, putting the sides around the base is both more efficient and somewhat stronger as the silicone has more strength in tension than is does in sheer.
Oh OK I get you, I just picked up a 180gal that is to long back to front for my house so I was going to remove front glass and stand it up and make the top into the front and the front into the top. But that would put the 4 walls on top of the bottom not around it. So it wouldn't work like that?
I'm not 100% sure what you mean but if it's just too long, why not cut it shorter? Also, changing the height is dangerous without doing the math on pressures. Cutting down the length is not difficult. It takes a bit of time but worth learning a new skill. Happy to show you.
Wow, I didn't think it was that easy. Tank is currently 48"W X 24"H X 36"D, I was just gonna stand it up so it would be. 48"W X 36"H X 24"D taking off the current front panel 24" X 48" and adding a new front panel of 36" X 48"
Just a word of caution, there is an enormous difference in pressures between a water height of 24" and 36", Probably require either substantial changes to bracing or double the glass thickness.
i have to make an aquarium same as you showed but i am comfused about the inches. Please give me detail in inch of entire number of a glass of each peace
Go to the web site, put in your sizes and you will get all the sizes, 3 types of suitable thickness, details of the silicone, bracing sizes and placement and a complete construction manual. All for $14.95. Sounds like a good deal to me. www.designs4aquariums.com
+Flash Gameing Sorry, I have no idea. There are so many factors. It depends on which country you live in, how close you are to glass suppliers, the dimensions of the tank (which will define a range of thicknesses) etc..... It's a bit like asking 'how much is a car?'.
This is absolutely a wrong way to build an aquarium. The side glasses must lay on the bottom glass since silicon sealant works good in a shear connection while much less in tensile connection. So, you want that at least on the bottom (where the water pressure is most high) the attachment will be the maximum you can.
Danhug49 I've the same experience, may be 2 years more :-). but this is not the issue. First, I'm sorry about my impolite statement about your method to build the aquarium. My apology and I take me words back. You definitely build aquariums in a different method than any professional company do, including 'all glass aquarium' in the USA. However I checked the GE RTV 108 spec and found that tensile strength of that silicone sealant is twice than the shear strength. I was very surprise about this finding, and this actually supports your method of attaching the wall to the base. Interesting. I'll continue making my research about that issue.
Danny F Thank you for your kind remarks. There are two benefits from building the sides around the base, additional strength for a given amount of silicone and ease of manufacture, especially for the home builder. We have manufactured many thousands of tanks this way, up to 18' in length and never had a failure. (Clean glass surface is critical of course, for any type of build.) cheers Dan
Much better workmanship than the last video I watched. Good to see your silicone used sparingly, the last build I watched was just a mess of materials.
Hi, great video... I have an old Hagen 120g tank. 1/2" Glass. It leaked so I tore it apart and cleaned it... the original factory trim held the bottom panel up into the wall panels about 1/2" or so. My question is, when I rebuild this tank can I make it a flat bottom? Or do I have to make it "Float" on the trim like it was from the factory? Any info will help... thanks for the video
Sorry for the late response and you've probably solved the issue, but for what it's worth, a flat bottom is the most common and more practical.
Great video Dan. Thank you very much for your time to make it. Most helpful. I was wondering your opinion though on what's the difference, (Strength, ease of construction ETC?) for building a tank with sides sitting on top of the base as opposed to having the sides sitting against the base as in your videos, especially for larger tanks E.G 1800 mm long x 600 mm high and 600 mm wide using 10 mm thick plate glass with top and cross bracing ?
+Mustardo1 Easy answer to this one, I have no idea why anyone would do it the hard way. Putting the sides around the base is faster, less mess and stronger, no matter what the size. Been doing it that way for 40 years for tanks up to 5.4 metres long (18 foot) with standard glass.
helpful video & thanks for the awesome work, quick question - for a tank size 100cmx45cm (8mm glass) is it safe to put the panels together around the bottom pane rather than on top of it?
Can't see why anyone would put the sides on top. Harder to build and not as strong.
Hello, really nice video.
I want to build a 65G, which is 36x18x24 and I would like to know if I can use this method, or do I need to go with the sides on the top of the bottom which I don't want to do.
Also, can I use the same thickness for all the glasses?
Thanks,
+Vincent David Guerrero Peña
It does not matter, you can put the sides on the top if you want but it is just much harder to build and slightly less strong. I never put the sides on top, for any tank.
+Vincent David Guerrero Peña Im not sure but I would recommend asking on one of the fish hobby websites, there will be plenty of helpful people.
+Dj Dyno
Hi, with all due respect to the hobby sites, this is a not a question about fish, this is about engineering. My fault for being a bit slow to answer Vincent's question but I've done that now.
cheers
Dan
Danhug49 Thank you very much for your answer! but I think I'll go with a bigger size and plywood with a view panel, cause the glass of thickness I need is too expensive!
I went to the site but the measurments I wanted don't seem to be available. I was hoping to do a 3ft W x 3ft H x 1 1/2ft D tank with 2/8 inch glass. Is there a reason the height would be an issue? Could this be done rimless? Or would I need a brace? Lastly would drilling a 45mm hole in the glass for an overflow be ok with those measurements?
Height is the most critical factor in building an aquarium. Once you get past 750mm the pressure must be given a lot of attention to not only ensure the bottom does not blow out but to allow for distortion across the span from top to bottom. The calculation you want is beyond the capabilities of this engineering program. A new site will be launched shortly that caters for taller and longer tanks, up to 18 foot long using standard thickness glass. I suggest you use 12mm minimum glass for what you have in mind. At that thickness and height, a brace is borderline at a width of 3ft. Generally, holes have little of no effect.
+Dan Hughes Okay. thanks for the reply.
Love the video. Looks very easy. I would like to use this idea to make a glass display case to encase a wood model ship. I will construct a wood base and sit the glass aquarium over the base. My question to you is: Would the corners that are siliconed have a good enough finish or "look" to be used as a display case? Thank you
Sorry for the late reply. Yes, but if you've never used silicone before, it takes some practice to get the right size bead and to remove the excess. This is part of the manual that normally ships with plans/ cutting sheets and instructions from the web site. Essentially you are building an aquarium that doesn't need the bracing.
I was blown away. Thank you for sharing that information. I WILL be visiting your site
Hi Dan. Turns out that tank I was making worked and has been housing fish for ages. So thanks for the sage advice. I have a question if you can find the time to answer about another tank. I still have glass lying around from an old attempt. It is 8mm thick glass (I was overly cautious) with the dimensions 700x300x400. Presumably the centre brace is only for bowing... so would this tank hold (of siliconed correctly) as is? No brace? Thanks in advance. Mike.
G'day Michael, I'm pleased you have been able to build so successfully. Regarding the old tank, I'd be confident filling it without a brace, if as you say, the silicone is done correctly. The main hurdle will be getting every last particle of silicone off the glass. The easy way is to turn it inside out.
+Dan Hughes That's great Dan thanks. You're always super fast with replies. I'll do as you say and use the clean side also.
Hi Michael, could I have your permission to use your comment on the web site? If so, perhaps you might also like to comment on the use of the manual and or anything else you think is relevant. Thanks Dan
+Dan Hughes Absolutely Dan. Please feel free you have been more than helpful. I owe you!
how much would it cosr for a 20 gallon tank
Hi. I've noticed from your video that the side panels joins the edge of the base compare to most DIY I've seen where the sides sit on the bottom glass. Do you have reasons when to do it this way and why? Any pros and cons between the two methods? Also, if you don't mind me asking, would it be safe to build a rough 50-55 G tank without braces or frames dimension is 45x18x18 inches 1/2 thick glass? Thank you in advanced.
Patrick Agustin Simple. Why do it the hard way for no benefit? No difference in strength. FOr your proposed tank, I'd have to do a calculation but no braces has risks. In theory, if the glass is thick enough to resist the pressures, you can skip the braces. I don't.
Hi Dan, great little video; thank you :)
I just wanted to ask... when the last panel @ 2:34 is going up, it looks as though the edges are recessed. Are they? It may just be the silicone making it look that way to me...
Thanks and apologies for the late reply. The edges are polished but definitely no recesses.
awesome video sir just wanted to know the glass thickness for a aquarium size of 4feet length 18inch height 18inch width plz suggest me the glass thickness thanks in advance
Like all aquariums, you can pretty much use any thickness if you use the right braces to match. In this case the height is quite modest so you could easily get away with 6mm is you use the right longitudinal and cross brace. Really recommend going to the web site and ordering a set of plans that will give you all that information including 3 options for glass thickness and a tutorial. designs4aquariums.com. Its a secure site.
Hi thanks for the tip! But my question is this recommed for frameless tank? Because my tank had a frame and there is lil gap underneath like 1/2 inch.
I need more information to help with this query.
Dan Hughes hello again
Sorry if i misunderstood you about my question. I mean is it the video about reassemble the tank is only for frames (no braces) tank? Because my tank is old tank and had a bubbles between the glass. And may i know what thickness of glass for 55 gal tank?
Thank you
The tank in the video was assembled just to show the correct method and later have the braces added. There is no reason to have a fully framed aquarium. Just add the correct longitudinal and cross glass braces and it will be fine. Thickness of glass depends on the height of the water, not the volume so I can't give you a single thickness. You can use many different thickness of glass, depends on braces and water height. Check out the website www.designs4aquariums.com. You can order a set of plans for any size tank you need that will tell you all you need to know.
what type of glass should I use? tempered or plate glasd for a large build?
Tempered glass is stronger (3 times) and more flexible but can shatter without warning even years later, due to an occasional manufacturing contaminate (called nickel sulphide infusion). Other than that risk, the only other constraint is that tempered glass cannot be cut or significantly machined, so holes have to be in place before tempering.
nice job, is 8mm thickness glass ok for a 4foot long tank? and what glass is best to use.
Thanks, yes, 8mm is probably fine but length has no bearing on thickness. Several other thicknesses are ok too depending on the bracing set up. It's more about engineering the bracing to suit the water height, than thickness.You can get more info from the web site. www.designs4aquariums.com
Did they seal the sides? I didnt see it at all. I would like to build my son a huge tank, hes 1 and i need it to be very strong!
Mick Wilczynski On small tanks you can get away with just the silicone between the glass. On larger ones a bead is put along the joins and all done together so there are no joins between wet and dry silicone.
Danhug49 gotcha. But for small ones you could put it at all joints for extra support?
Mick Wilczynski Certainly you can and for large tanks you should
tried to check out your website. but coming up as page not publshed ?
I cant seem to view the shop website. Is it atill active?
Dan Sir, in most of the videos, front glass is fixing on bottom glass...but you have fixed it on edge of bottom glass....Which is better? Please advise..
The main purpose of the video is to show people how it should be done. Construction is much easier and results in a stronger bond.
Dan Hughes ok Sir...got it...
A quick question, on your website the calculations then in buy does include the glass cut to size and shipping cost? Sorry for stupid question.
No, it's a big world. Shipping to over 200 countries would be an issue.
Hello. I've gone to the site but it's very limited. I noticed that you surrounded the bottom of the aquarium instead of letting to top pieces (front and sides) rest on the bottom like I'm used to seeing. I want to design a larger aquarium due to your video motivating me. The dimensions that I want is 50" (L) x 30" (H) x 32" (W). Approximately a 207.79 gallon aquarium. I would like to start off smaller the first time first. Something along the lines of 36" (L) x 24"(H) x 32" (W). Roughly a 119.69 gallon aquarium. Will I have to brace the bottom just like the top and do I need a styrofoam bottom? You help is desperately needed. Thanks
So simple yet very effective.. More power and thanks for the video. Im built my tank on my own :D
I'm considering building my own tank, as I don't want an incredibly large amount of water, but I want the tank to be considerably long, because my cichlids seem to only utilize the bottom portion of the tank. So I want the height and depth to be that of a 20H, but with a 7 foot length. What do you think would be an appropriate panel thickness for these dimensions? Thanks!
+David Harris
The glass thickness is governed by two things, the height (primarily) and the design of the braces (if any). Simply put, the taller the tank the more thickness and bracing you need. A long shallow tank is the other extreme where very thin glass and no bracing is required. What you want, is somewhere between. If you only want a height of 400 or 450 (18 inches in American) 6mm (quarter inch) would be Ok so long as you run a brace along both top long edges and add at least one cross brace.
I been in glass business for many years also and never seen a tank made that way..... It looked nice but how strong is that structure when its filled with water? You had all the glass at the sides of the base rather than on top..... is this safe?
Obviously. Haven't had one fail in 40 years and science is on my side too.
What kind of glass would be best to us and how much will the pieces usually go for? also where could i buy the glass and sealant? Also im in the US so would there be any differences better?
Hi Tommy, you are best to get your sizes ready and get a quote from a couple of your local glass suppliers. The sealant is silicone and you need to get a construction version which is usually also available from the glass company. I recommend getting the construction manual and the exact sizes you need from the web site. It's cheap and has all the information you need. www.designs4aquariums.com
went to your link, site is still under construction. When will it be up and running? cheers, David.
+David Cooper G'day David, we're almost finished and testing now so I am hopeful it will be live by the end of month, 31st January maybe sooner.
I would like one, to meet the space avilable, 3'L, 1.5'W, 2.5'H but before I would like to ask about the glass used. Either 3mm thick glass is best or 5mm.
Waiting for your answer
If you go the the web site, you will be able to have plans done that will include 3 different glass thicknesses. All 3 will be suitable, with different bracing, so you choose which one you want to use. In any case, 3mm will not be suitable and 5mm may not either but it would need to be checked to see which one to use. www.designs4aquariums.com is where you get all the answers.
Does it matter if the side pieces go to the side of the base or on the base .
Putting the sides on the base is more difficult to assemble and not quite as strong, but still works fine.
Hi what is minium thickness of glass in order to build a 36"x17"x20"(h) (50 gallon) aquarium? thanks
What types of glass do you recommend?
Sorry for the delayed response, I been out of town. Standard annealed glass is best bet. Treatment to enhance certain qualities (eg flexibility, impact resistance, heat variation resistance, human impact concerns etc) all have conflicting issues that make them less suitable for aquariums.
very nice video 👍
what is the glass thickness you usually recommend? 6mm thick or 8mm thick ?..I want to build an aquarium with dimensions of 140cm×40cmx30cm ( LxHxW)..any help please? and is it the normal silicon in the building section or another type of silicon. .?
thank you in advance
Everything you need to know about building is done in more detail on the website. Plans and the manual include 3 thicknesses of glass that are suitable, all about the silicone and clear directions in how to assemble you own tank and what traps to avoid. Go to www.designs4aquariums.com
Dan Hughes thank you dan ..i do appreciate your concern and reply ...thanx
i want to build my own glass tank, but i am not sure what the minimum glass thickness required ?
Have you been to the web site to get the information about engineering?
how many mm gap do you leave for the silicone?
Where did you get the glass from? If a website, please send link?
At the time I had my men put that tank together, I owned the glass company, but you can look up glass companies for your local area. You'll need a cutting list of sizes. Go to the website to get a plan www.designs4aquariums.com. It's a secure site so you can buy a plan and manual safely and quite cheap.
Thank you :)
Hi, I want your opinion on the aquarium. I plan to build a plywood aquarium, just like you.
Measurements: 1.20cm W X 0.42cm W, the H is 0.50cm
my house (apartment) is located on the second floor
I wonder about the final weight.
Can my project be feasible?
At around 300 kilos, it would be the same as 4 people standing very close to one another.
thanks
this dude looks like colonel the fonder of KFC 😂
I used to be Kenny Rogers.
Dan Hughes haha savage
thats actually HIM but just into fish tank business now
I like Kenny Rogers--- 'Evening Star'
What glass should you use and silicone thing to keep it together? What are the sizes of the glass :) thanks
hi dan! quick question, I am attempting to rebuild a 100 gallon glass aquarium. Thickness is 1/2". dimensions are 72" length 15.5" width and 22" height. With larger tanks do you need to space the glass panels for the silicone to have a stronger bond? I want to do this project right so I dont ruin my floors! Thanks for your time!
+Tim Acedo G'day Tim, if you use my method, the silicone thickness is measured in micons however I have no evidence to suggest the making it thicker has any benefit, quite the opposite I think, but we'd need a chemist to tell us that for sure. I've built some truely enormous tanks and never had one let go, although I use a secondary concave seal on all the big ones just to be 100%. At just 22", your aquarium has a low risk already so charge ahead my friend.
+Dan Hughes Thanks Dan for the quick reply!
what kind of glass do i need? and what kind of kit?
Justme Maarten for what?
Creating a aquarium dhuuu
Hi Dan, some fish tank maker fix side glasses on top of base glass, I think they doing it wrong because it will cause extra burden on base glass, I like the way you doing it, can u update that the way they doing is wrong. Thanks for nice video
Thanks for your comment. Putting the sides on top will not cause any undue stress on the base but it really makes it difficult to build for no benefit and marginally less strength.
Hi Dan. I have been trying to get into building my own tank for a while now. I built one and it failed. Took it apart and re made it. Failed again. 70 x 30 x 40. no centre brace. After some extra research apparently my silicone was useless. Tec 7? Luckily I tested all this for 4 weeks each time. I am starting a new one with Aquamate Aquarium Silicone. Height, Width and Length is 450x350x350. Would you think I would need a centre brace for this considering its short, square shape? Love the video. I have watched it many times.
+Michael Gilbert. G'day Michael, I've been using Dow Corning standard clear 470 now for many many years and used a few others as well with no issues. The main consideration I guess is that silicone is a one-time, one-shot event. It is very difficult to remove old silicone to the point where new silicone will stick to the glass with reliability. It sure will not stick to itself. As for the braces, no in a little tank like that. I think of bracing in general terms as 'cubing' the water, that is, putting in a brace that will make the water into a roughly cube shape. For example, a 600 high x 1200 long x 600 would have one cross brace to make two 'cubes' of water about 600 x 600 x 600. Does that make sense? The new Glass Engineering Calculator will be available on the web site in the next few weeks and that will provide a lot of answers and every bit of info needed for aquariums up to 8 metres (25 foot). Should be live by end of November if all goes well.
+Dan Hughes Ok awesome. Thanks for the reply! On the older tank I scraped all silicone off and cleaned the smudges with white spirits until there was no visible signs of silicone. Is there enough invisible residue to cause issue would you think?
And thank you for clearing up the centre brace issue. One more thing if you wouldn't mind. Would it be safe to use frosted glass of the same thickness in conjunction with the rest? As a background. 1 back piece.
+Michael Gilbert I'm afraid I don't know enough of the chemistry to be sure, but I would have thought your cleaning was enough to do the trick. Obviously not, but turning the glass the other way may have been better, using the unsullied side. Re the obscure glass, no problem in the small aquariums. Obscure (patterned) glass only comes in a maximum thickness of 6mm and is about 85% of the strength of the equivalent clear. It is possible though to take thicker glass and treat it with an acid etch to make it obscure. You can also paint the back which is the more common method.
+Dan Hughes Thank you very much for the help. We'll see how the new aquarium turns out. All your help is greatly appreciated and I hope you make some more videos.
What should be the exact size of the panels to make a 55 Gallon. I know it is 48 x 13 x 21, please give the exact size of front panel, bottom and side panel, so that they all fit together. Thank you for your help. Salim from Dubai
You need a set of plans with all the braces too and the manual to show you the best construction method. Go to the secure web site and down load all the information for any size aquarium. designs4aquariums.com
Sir may please tell me the size of the glass......please
Sir, I'm planning to build an aquarium for size L-3' x W-12" x H-20". What thickness should I prefer for glass ? Is upper and lower brace needed for this size ?
As the height is quite modest, bracing and thickness are not a problem. You could get by with 10mm and no top brace or thinner and longitudinal braces at least. There are no lower braces in a well designed aquarium.
sir what should the breathe for 36x20x20 inch aqu glass?? thickness
You really need to get a set of plans to give you ALL the dimensions and the construction manual. www.designs4aquariums.com
i have an aquarium of 3ft×15"×15" is it needed to have a brace,,
It is probably not necessary in such a small aquarium, assuming the glass thickness is reasonable, say a minimum of 6mm.
Dan Hughes i have 6mm glass,,and the aquarium size is 3 ft 15"height 15"widthis it necessary,,
No. If it was taller, more height, it would need a cross brace, although even at this size, it should have two long braces.
Dan Hughes i have 2 brace in both side but not in the length by width,,,is it a problem
We are probably talking about the same thing but without a drawing, photo or plan I can't say for sure. It seems likely from what you have said so far that you do not have a problem.
I still have no clue what thickness glass or type of silicone to use, shouldn't it have been in this how to video? I know you say the info is on your site, but isn't this what a how to video is for.. The assembly part was great btw, I learned something new so thumbs up.
+Pingo bags I know it is frustrating but the thickness has little to do with the size of the aquarium and all to do with how it is built. Almost any aquarium could be built using at least 3 different thicknesses depending on the engineering. Really that is one of the benefits of getting a plan done. On the other hand, I can settle the issue of which silicone to use, look for a structural silicone and ignore any references to its being unsuitable for aquariums. Dow Corning is international but most manufacturers produce structural grade and that will do the job just fine.
Thanks for the reply. I'll look for some. Making a tank is something I would like to try.
Whats the length..breadth n width also thickness of the one you showed in the video
I can't remember for sure but just by looking at the video, I'd say about 900 on the length and roughly 500 on the height and front-to-back probably 450. The thickness would have been 6mm but we could have used another thickness as that is determined by the braces, which would have been fitted later. You can get a copy of the construction manual setting out thicknesses, cutting sizes and braces for any size aquarium you want by going to the secure web site designs4aquariums.com
Thickness of glass come into play when you want to build a larger tank (125-200gallon) ?
Yes but mostly because the larger tanks are also taller. Length is irrelevant with the correct bracing.
I was thinking of making a 72 widex30highx30long , would I have to use as thick as 3/8 tempered glass? Just curious
Not necessarily, there are at least 3 thicknesses you could use for that height. It depends mostly on the bracing.
Dear Sir,
- Arrangement of glass sheets to be glued
Q1> When should one choose to glue the side on the top of the base plate and when to glue em to the side of the glass base (In the video you glued it to the sides of the base, isn't that a problem.. side panels glued to side.. on top of base would be better right ?)
Q2> Left and right sides.. is it better to be tucked between the front and back sheets (& bottom) or cover the entire side
- Roughing the surface
Q3> how to make sure that my adhesive sticks to the smooth glass, should I grind the surface which needs to be glued what the best way to rough the surface to be glued ?
Q1. There is no reason to put the sides on the top of the base. In fact, there are two very good reasons for surrounding the base with the sides. 1. Construction is much easier and 2. as the silicone is stronger in tension that in shear, the aquarium is stronger.
Q2. Making the sides longer covers the edge of the ends so is aesthetically more pleasing but makes no difference to the strength.
Q3. Silicone has high adhesion with smooth glass and there is no need or benefit to rough the surface.
Thank you Sir, So I can take the next step confidently towards building my own Aquarium. (I have a ~3.5 Gal Bowl n my bro has a 35 Gal (30x15x15) tank), I wanted to build my own (36x18x18) freshwater, more fun in building than buying. I dream of a perfect Planted aquarium with few tiny fishies =D
Building your own aquarium is no much more satisfying than just buying from a store. For preference you would get a set of plans and a manual to help you avoid the problems that can arise. See www.designs4aquariums.com Good luck.
what is the size of the aquarium on the video?
I can't remember now exactly but it looks most likely to be 600 high, 450 front to back and about 1600 -1800 long.
i have to make Aquarium at home self 36" inch long, 18" inch width & height 18" inch 6mm glass. Give me detail about what should be length, width & height of glass in inch that will be attach with silicon in inches.
in your video i didn't find any idea about length, width and height all in inches
Go to the web site www.designs4aquariums.com
and enter those measurements, it will give you all the answers you need.
I enjoyed your video. It was very helpful. Thank you!
hi , could you please tell me the glass dimensions required for making a 3ft by 1ft glass coz last time.. last time when i took exact dimensions, there was a half inch variation in the sides.
I'm sorry but I do not understand your question.
Sir ! What defiance between center and front galas length
Please ask another way. I don't understand the question this way.
Why the side glass are not sit on top vs on the side or around the bottom panel ? Around it's easier to build .....but....
Yes, it is easier to build and it is also stronger.
were would I get the glass for this?
Hi, you can order glass from one of your local glass suppliers. You must specify the glass thickness and exact sizes. As with the previous comment, I really recommend you get the sizes and construction manual from the web site. It's cheap and makes sure the build goes smoothly and you have no disasters. www.designs4aquariums.com
No bead of silicone run on the inside edges and smoothed out with a finger to make it water tight? I've never seen an aquarium making video with out that step. Your video just seems to show the structural silicone and not the sealing silicone.
You are quite right and the reason is the video is there to demonstrate the correct method for construction. Once the tank is made we normally run a bead along the inside edges as a secondary seal, although a small aquarium like the one shown would be fine without it.
The last part, the fitting of the braces has also been left out as this was only intended as a correction for the people locating the sides on top of the base.
I'm considering doing another showing the whole process, done in less than 10 minutes.
dan very informative. can you point me where you would buy the bottom and top brace material?
where do you get perfectly cut glass like this?
Any glass supplier will be able to do it. If you get a plan from the website, the manual explains more fully about edgework and trade terminology for the different edge types but in the video we were using a 'flat polish'. Your glass supplier will charge you more for this but it's worth it for the top edge at least. The rest you can use a flat grind or even a smooth arris.
Dan Hughes - thanks so much!! i really want to try this.
Building your own is great fun. If you haven't already, I'd recommend you go to the web site and download the plans, cutting sizes, thicknesses and bracing plan for the size you want. Once you have the manual that comes with it, you can have fun without the worry of it crashing on you. Good luck. www.designs4aquariums.com
I have 2ft long 2ft height 1ft deep of 5mm glass do I need bracing
The higher the water level, the more possibility of having a failure. I would use a couple of light longitudinal braces if I intended filling it to the top.
Sir please give me the perfect dimensions for all the glass panels for a 20 gallon tank.
You really need to get a set of plans to give you ALL the dimensions and the construction manual. designs4aquariums.com
Dan the man! Nice simple video. I'm watching it because I'm about to assemble my aquarium right now and even though I feel fully confident in doing it, I love to prepare like hell. The video lacks some key info. I'd like to know the approximate size of the bead of silicone he's putting down, in inches. I'm sure that depends on glass thickness. My glass is 1/4" thick. Second bit of info lacking is simply which sides overlap, its hard to see. My end pieces are the full width, so the front and back butt to the ends. I'm using recycled glass shelving and due to cutting reasons this is how I have to assemble. I hope that doesn't matter too much in the construction and how strong the seam will be. My tank is only 33" long by 11.5" wide by 9.5" tall, so its only around 15 gallons.
Thanks Nathan, glad you enjoyed the video. It was only demo showing how a pro can build an aquarium in a few minutes so it does not touch on some critical points as you pointed out. Fyi, the silicone bead you can use as roughly equal to the glass thickness. You can build with the side overlapping the ends which gives the nicer finish to the front or as you are doing, the ends overlapping the front where you see the end grain edge of the ends. The other critical thing not in the video is the bracing which in your case does not matter given the dimensions of your aquarium.
I own my own tile laying business and I can tell you that running a bead of silicone is different than any other water based or water cleanup caulking. If you got it, you got it. I've had guys that couldn't do that at all and guys that do in a week or so, the latter being very rare.
It's an art. Next time you see two shop front glass panels without metal between, take a look at the join. Glaziers get pretty good at it, but of course, there are tricks to the trade too, which make it a lot easier.
hi can you please guide me to how to unfix the aquarium which is fixed with UV glue
As far as I am aware, UV glue is not recommended for underwater use, although new types have probably been developed since the last time I used it. I think it is intended to be a permanent fix.
Meus parabéns sucesso
É um prazer ver os seus vídeo aqui no Brasil também pelo o RUclips
Thanks. I'm pleased the video has made it to Brazil.
what type gum it is sir
Construction grade silicone. All detailed in the manual you can get from the web site. www.designs4aquariums.com
That looks good to me.... Thanks for the tutorial Dan...
My pleasure. Hope you find it useful.
Is it safe to reseal the aquarium?
Resealing an aquarium usually means replacing the secondary seal, that is the seal that is put on the inside joins and does not include taking the tank apart and replacing the primary seal between the panels. It is critical that you remove all traces of the existing silicone which sounds easy but is quite tedious. You will need several single sided razor blades and some dish washing detergent. Don't skimp on the razor blades, use several at least, even if they feel sharp. The glass must finish up squeaky clean.
How much would it cost to build an 80 gallon aquarium? (300 litres)
+MaxiFate Good question. It depends on a number of factors, first which country you live in and the proximity of medium to large glass companies that can deliver. It also depends on the dimensions which will determine the thickness required. Quite a few things to consider even for a small aquarium like this.
How do you brace it?
Sorry to be slow in replying, I didn't see your question earlier.
Bracing is the critical part of the aquarium, more important than the thickness. There are thousands of possible combinations so I can only suggest if you are serious about building your own, to get a set of plans and a manual from the web site. It's well worth it. www.designs4aquariums.com Let me know if I can help in some way.
Mm yes I think I understand now why installing the vertical panes around the base pane instead of atop it is recommended by the experienced builders. Assuming you use a formula to find the desired glass thickness, what Safety Factor values do you apply to the different build types (top braced, bottom braced, unbraced, etc.)?
+billforigno Design, especially in glass, is difficult, more so in open top containers like aquariums. Few structural engineers even, feel confident guaranteeing the viability of an aquarium larger than the small, basic 8 foot aquarium where you can simply use the thickest glass. We design aquariums in lengths up to 18 foot with a single front and rear pane using standard thickness glass but the formulas are complex and the relationship of transferred resistance across the face of the glass is a significant factor. This makes large aquariums financially viable. For example, we can engineer a design for a 25 foot aquarium that is cheaper to build than 3 eight footers.
+Dan Hughes (Repost due to RUclips censorship) Thanks for the quick reply. So the calculations are just as much about deciding where/how to place structural supports as they are about ascertaining the required glass thickness. What exactly is defined as standard thickness glass?
+billforigno Yes, you are absolutely spot on about the design and placement of structural support being the critical factor. The thickness of the glass is far less important than the bracing but popular opinion gives far more weight to the thickness, even going so far as to tie the length to thickness (which always brings on a smile). To answer your question, standard glass thicknesses used in aquariums are 6, 8, 10 and 12mm. For taller aquariums we also use 15mm and occasionally, 19mm.
what gum you use
I guess you are asking about the silicone or the silicone gun. See previous comments.
I LEARN MUCH ON HOW TG BUILD MY OWN TANK WHAT KIND OF SILICON THAT YOU ARE USING SIR
Look for a construction grade silicone, preferably acid cure.
how much cost do this aqurim.
Without knowing which country you live in, I have no idea. You need to contact your local glass supplier to get a price on glass.
which gun did you use?
Can i use hot glue gun?
Aquariums are held together and sealed with silicone, hence a silicone gun is required. I have never used a hot glue gun on an aquarium, partly because silicone works so well but partly because there is a vast range of hot melt glues with 11 main base component types and a dozen additives. A chemist may be able to recommend a mixture that works on aquariums, having the four primary attributes of high bonding rate, flexibility, UV resistance and water impermeability.
I was wanting to make a very small tank for betta photos . So I would like to make it 7"L , 3"W , 6"H
Go for it. A fun and easy project.
Height kaya hai aquarium kaa please replay
Sir.... I wanna make a aquarium Home ..
Please tell me a making a 3ft Long aquarium need all the glas six.
As per the comment below...
You need a set of plans with all the braces too and the manual to show
you the best construction method. Go to the secure web site and down
load all the information for any size aquarium.
designs4aquariums.com
3ft tank glass thickness???
6mm or 8mm???
Thickness does not relate to length. You could use either 6mm or 8mm and I've made them with 4mm and 5mm with the right bracing. You need to go to the website for more information. designs4aquariums.com
amazingly simple ...we shall see.....great video.
+Ph Wagz thanks, and yes it is simple. A bit of practice helps though. The guy, Justin, in the video can cut and machine the glass AND assemble the tank in 14 minutes but 8 of those minutes are waiting for the glass to run through the glass edge polisher.
web site wont work. pls post a link
Perhaps we are checking the wrong link. Can you tell me where you are trying to connect. The live link on the video seems to be OK but could be an issue for you. I'll try to fix if you can let me know where you're looking.
cheers Dan
Dan Hughes have got it to work thanx. will look thru your site.
Good job buddy
is it silicon wt brand?
Yes, it is silicone. The brand is less important than the grade. Look for 'construction' grade silicone
yes, i can make it if I have skill like that man
VERY NICE WORK SMART
You have 499 subs but only one video :D, shoot I'll be #500 :D
I was wondering does it make a difference if you have the 4 walls go around the base glass ( Like in the video ), or if the 4 walls sat on top of the base glass?
To my shame, I have been neglecting uploading more videos, something I intend to address very soon. To answer your question, putting the sides around the base is both more efficient and somewhat stronger as the silicone has more strength in tension than is does in sheer.
Oh OK I get you, I just picked up a 180gal that is to long back to front for my house so I was going to remove front glass and stand it up and make the top into the front and the front into the top. But that would put the 4 walls on top of the bottom not around it. So it wouldn't work like that?
I'm not 100% sure what you mean but if it's just too long, why not cut it shorter? Also, changing the height is dangerous without doing the math on pressures. Cutting down the length is not difficult. It takes a bit of time but worth learning a new skill. Happy to show you.
Wow, I didn't think it was that easy. Tank is currently 48"W X 24"H X 36"D, I was just gonna stand it up so it would be. 48"W X 36"H X 24"D taking off the current front panel 24" X 48" and adding a new front panel of 36" X 48"
Just a word of caution, there is an enormous difference in pressures between a water height of 24" and 36", Probably require either substantial changes to bracing or double the glass thickness.
i have to make an aquarium same as you showed but i am comfused about the inches. Please give me detail in inch of entire number of a glass of each peace
Go to the web site, put in your sizes and you will get all the sizes, 3 types of suitable thickness, details of the silicone, bracing sizes and placement and a complete construction manual. All for $14.95. Sounds like a good deal to me. www.designs4aquariums.com
cost
+Flash Gameing Sorry, I have no idea. There are so many factors. It depends on which country you live in, how close you are to glass suppliers, the dimensions of the tank (which will define a range of thicknesses) etc..... It's a bit like asking 'how much is a car?'.
Dan Hughes i live in houston but thanks
This is absolutely a wrong way to build an aquarium. The side glasses must lay on the bottom glass since silicon sealant works good in a shear connection while much less in tensile connection. So, you want that at least on the bottom (where the water pressure is most high) the attachment will be the maximum you can.
Danny F I appreciate you have an opinion but I have 40 years of experience. You do it your way.
Danhug49 I've the same experience, may be 2 years more :-). but this is not the issue.
First, I'm sorry about my impolite statement about your method to build the aquarium. My apology and I take me words back.
You definitely build aquariums in a different method than any professional company do, including 'all glass aquarium' in the USA. However I checked the GE RTV 108 spec and found that tensile strength of that silicone sealant is twice than the shear strength. I was very surprise about this finding, and this actually supports your method of attaching the wall to the base.
Interesting. I'll continue making my research about that issue.
Danny F Thank you for your kind remarks. There are two benefits from building the sides around the base, additional strength for a given amount of silicone and ease of manufacture, especially for the home builder. We have manufactured many thousands of tanks this way, up to 18' in length and never had a failure. (Clean glass surface is critical of course, for any type of build.) cheers Dan
I
hi, i think side glass should be placed on the bottom glass if am not wrong...
You are.
?
Super dude I liked bro
I have great respect for my Elders
I like it
I like
Nice
Very good
Thank you for the tips and the video very informative.
+Alex Juarez cheers
Measurement
straight to the point thanks
Excelent!!
awesome video! check out my self made corner fish tank made out of starphire glass.