DIY - Projects & Ideas • 220 gal. build

[Malawi_Junkie]

As much as I have enjoyed my DIY background I'm kind of looking forward to creating a new one. The creative process of it all is quite enjoyable (minus scraping out old silicone). Progress will probably take awhile since I don't seem to have much free time these days. I'll keep CF posted as I go.

[tim_s]

I shifted stock to my other tanks so they are comfortable and allows me all the time I need.
I resealed the tank twice actually but failed to stop the original leak first go around. Second venture proved successful until the other night right at 2 yrs. Since I will most likely need to completely strip the tank and start over I am wondering about commercial grade silicone this go round. I was very maticulous about the reseal so I'm doubting GE silicone I was the the appropriate solution for this size tank. I have had very good results using it on smaller tanks though so I thought it was up to the job, apparently not. The leak appears to be in the middle of the front bottom seal. Further testing and inspection required to be sure though.
Any recommendations for industrial silicone?
Anyone have experience with liquid rubber? Not sure if it would adhere to glass.

To be honest with you, 10 year old tank left dry, I would of taken the tank completely apart stripped the seals and started from scratch -- The silicone would of not performed, especially if you just created a new layer over the pre-existing as your laying your contact points over an already degrading contact point.

[DanniGirl]

As much as I have enjoyed my DIY background I'm kind of looking forward to creating a new one. The creative process of it all is quite enjoyable (minus scraping out old silicone). Progress will probably take awhile since I don't seem to have much free time these days. I'll keep CF posted as I go.

I hear you! I always enjoy the actual process more so than the final outcome.

On a serious note, sorry to hear about the tank.
Good luck!

[Malawi_Junkie]

Depending on wear the leak is located I may do just that, break the whole tank down and start from scratch that is. There are a few scratches in the Front glass that bug me even though others don't notice them. I would like to buff them out or possibly switch front and back glass. After scrapeing out all 10+ tubes of silicone holding my BG in place swapping panes may not be a viable option.
One mistake I will not make again is having caves and crannies built into my BG this has proven only to be a pain in the @#% when trying to catch a fish. I may try and salvage enough of the BG to install on a couple of back logged projects I have on hold, a 55g and 75g in the wait. Have all equipment just need more time.
All projects on hold until the wife's bathroom is complete. Yes, I gutted the master-bath just for fun. DIY TV shows got me again, they make it look soooo easy!

[matt121966]

what about lights?

[ryencok3]

[mightyevil]

Just saw this! Sucks man, really sucks...

I could of told you about the small areas where fish could hide from you but sometimes it doesnt matter how much you try, fish will always find a place to hide from you!

Oh those DIY tv shows, they havent got me yet but only reason is because I dont have the money, not even to destroy a wall!

As far as the scratches go, maybe using the glass inside out will help as most scratches become invisible once water hits them... just a thought... Unless there are more scratches on the inside of the glass than there are on the outside...

[matt121966]

One mistake I will not make again is having caves and crannies built into my BG this has proven only to be a pain in the @#% when trying to catch a fish.

I am so glad you said that. I was thinking of cutting lace rock in half and silconing it to the back wall making ledges, nooks and crannies.

Thanks for the tip.

[asombrio02]

just rejoined cf and the world of cichlid keeping and your build has me completely motivated. from stand to background, im jealous of that tank!

[Kaenon]

Oh man wow, just saw this thread.

It was an amazing DIY job all-around. From the stand/canopy to the BG, and sump I loved it.

I'm in a 2nd-floor apt, and all I have right now is a 55 gallon running with 4 AC70s and a 10 gallon with a sponge. When I get a house in a couple years, I plan on doing something similar to your venture.