Tank building/ builders advice?

[Kattz]

Hi

I was wondering if anyone can recommend a place that would build custom tanks in the Cape Town/ Stellenbosch areas. Emphasis would be on quality (most notably, as leak/ crack proof as possible) and flexibility (eg. would they be able to make it with or without a base, different base options, etc)

I'd also like advice on what to look out for when getting a tank made, especially if looking at something 2m(ish) in length. Does anyone know what sort of glass thickness must be used or if there are grades of quality? Is there a recommended height to base area ratio that must not be exceeded? Does anyone have any tips on gauging how much weight an existing piece of furniture can take? I've heard of multi-layered bases and other techniques to act as a safety net in the case of a leak or crack. I really have no idea what should be standard or not, what options are available, and when someone might be talking rubbish to try make a sale.

Lastly, does anyone have a standard tank that is sized around 2m in length that they bought? I'd be keen to know what dimensions it is, how much it cost, and if it has any particular advantages over custom made.

I don't know how likely it is that I will be able to make use of the information, as I am under restrictions beyond my control, but knowing the most I can would act in my favour and any information and advice would be most appreciated. <3

Regards,
Cat

[TomK]

Cat

A handy site to play around on with different dimensions, getting glass thickness, safety specs and so on.
http://www.theaquatools.com/building-your-aquarium

As for price, phone around with the specs you arrive at and get prices on glass. Then you have an idea whether you are being taken for a ride by the builder. You will notice, glass thickness is determined by height and not length or width. A tip is to not go very high, as it is difficult to work in a too high tank. Stay with feet as to decide length. That seems to be the common referral to your tank size. 4ft is very popular. Popular width and height is 45cm.

I am not a pro on this, just giving you something to work with in the meantime, till a pro can come and answer you.

There is also many guides on the net to DIY your own tank. It seems daunting, but is not that difficult. It is all in the planning, using the correct silicone and to not use too much silicone. As Prof. pointed out today somewhere, it is just the thin layer between the sheets that count and not a thick layer from glass to glass. I replaced a front panel on a 4ft tank and made that mistake! Had to remove all the silicone and re-do it. The tank is supposed to fully cure in 24 hours. 48 hours later, when I removed the silicone, it had a hard layer on top, but a wet mess underneath!

Another option is to buy secondhand. Lots of bargains out there. If you go that route, watch out for watermarks and scratches. It can prove very difficult to impossible to remove.

O yes, nearly forgot. Custom tank, means custom canopy!

Good luck.

[mxz]

Hi Kattz..

Get in touch with @Altum for advice etc..

I recently purchased a 1.8m tank from him. Still in the process of setting it up..

[Wes]

NB info: Glass thicker than 6mm is imported, hence more expensive...

There also seems to be a bit a flaw in the post linking to the tank calculator, keep the height of the tank at 30 cm u can make a 500cmX500cm Tank out of 4mm glass... sound right?