How to Construct Your Own Glass Aquarium

How to Construct Your Own Glass Aquarium

Fish keepers and aquarium enthusiasts can agree that glass aquariums available in retail stores are expensive.  Indeed, for the materials that go into their construction, they are grossly overpriced.  Most glass aquariums consist of nothing more than sheets of glass, sealant, and a decorative wood, plastic, or metal trim.  It is possible to create your own for a fraction of the cost.

Materials Needed for a Glass Aquarium

Obviously, the first thing you need to construct a glass aquarium is glass.  If you intend to make a rectangular aquarium, you will need one piece of glass for the base and four pieces of glass for the sides: two each of two sizes.

You will also need aquarium grade silicon sealant.  You can find this at many hardware stores or even pet stores that stock aquariums and fish tanks.  Be sure it is marked that it is safe for fish and aquatic life.

To make building the aquarium easier, some duct tape is good for holding the glass in place while the silicone sealant dries.  You also need a razor blade or sharp knife for cleaning up the extra sealant.

Constructing the Walls and Floor of the Aquarium

To begin constructing the glass aquarium, lay the base piece of glass on a non-abrasive, flat surface.  Pipe a generous bead of the sealant along the front edge of the base piece and press the front piece of glass into place.  Use the duct tape strips to hold the glass in place, or get a friend to help.

Next, affix one of the side pieces to the tank at the bottom edge.  You should also use a generous bead of sealant along the vertical edge between the two pieces of glass.  Finish the other sides of the tank in the same way.

Sealing All Joints Carefully

Before the silicone sealant dries, pipe a continuous bead of sealant alone the joins inside the aquarium.  Then, use your finger to press the sealant smoothly over the edge of the glass on the inside of the tank.  If the sealant is not covering the outside edges of the joints, be sure to repeat the procedure there.

Check For Water Tightness

After the entire glass aquarium is completed and the sealant is totally dry, fill the tank with water.  To check for water tightness, you should allow the tank to sit for at least twenty-four hours with the water inside.  If there are any leaks, you must drain the tank, dry it completely, and patch them with extra silicone sealant.

Constructing your own glass aquarium is an excellent idea if you want one that is an unusual size.  It is also a great way to save money.  With easy to find materials and some care, you can create a glass aquarium that will impress the most dedicated fish keepers.