Help with fixing 1.2m tank

Discussion in 'Anything DIY related' started by Shrimp_Hoops, Oct 28, 2023.

  1. Shrimp_Hoops

    Shrimp_Hoops All over the place

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    Hi guys and gals , I bought an old 1.2m that needs a lot of repair work. Im not really a hands on kind of guy normally but Ive really wanted to style up a tank and make it stand out without spending thousands of rand on new equipment. I was hoping some of you DIY nuts could help me with the following:

    • which is the best fish friendly paint to paint the back of the tank and braces? (cheap too!)
    • How thick should the plywood/wooden board be supporting the tank on the stand (the one it came with is in poor condition)
    • What glue do I need to use to add a new polystyrene base to the tank?
    • Can I use those 10w floodlights that builders sells (the famous ones) or will it be too bright in a 45cm deep tank?
    • What can I use to clean hardwater stains , without having to rinse the tank ?(I have to use buckets of water to fill it up so repeatedly cleaning it is very time consuming)
    • Finally , can I use normal paint to paint the stand or is that just going to erode away overtime when exposed to water?
    Thanks in advance! will start a post when I begin the process as I love watching peoples DIY work and I know some of you do to.
     
    Shrimp_Hoops, Oct 28, 2023
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  3. Whoknows

    Whoknows Moderator

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    For painting the back of the tank I used heritage paints acrylic paint and put it on with a small foam roller. One 250ML tub is enough for a 1.2m tank. It does take quite a few coats though at least 4 but usually it dries fast. I have not tried this for bracing though. The water splashing or condensation might cause it to come off.

    If it's a steel stand 12mm would do however you'll have better luck finding 18mm plywood. You can paint plywood too to make it last longer. You can use 16mm chipboard too but then you'll definitely have to paint it.

    Glue new polystyrene on with marine silicone. Just clean off the old stuff nicely first.

    You'll be able to use them. Just depends on what you planing on keeping in the tank to determine how long to leave them on for.

    White vinegar in a spray bottle if you have one and paper towels. Spray it on and place the paper towels on to soak it. I think you leave it for about 20 min and scrape it off with a razor blade.

    Enamel or metal paint should be fine for you stand.
     
    Whoknows, Oct 28, 2023
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    Shrimp_Hoops

    Shrimp_Hoops All over the place

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    Absolute star , thank you very much!
     
    Shrimp_Hoops, Oct 28, 2023
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    Whoknows likes this.

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