- 1). Determine the final measurements for your display tank. Cut the glass to size or have it cut for you. For most tanks under 4 feet long and 20 inches tall, 6mm thick glass should provide plenty of support. You will need the front and back panels to be the full height and length of the tank, the side panels to be the full height and width, and the tank base to be the full width of the tank and the length minus two times the thickness of the glass (to accommodate the sides when assembling). You will also need a single horizontal support brace that runs the full length of the tank's back (2-3 inches wide is plenty for most tanks), and cross braces at least every 18 inches of tank length.
- 2). Sand any rough edges of the glass panels and wipe down with a damp rag dipped in vinegar to remove dust and finger prints.
- 3). Lay newspaper over a flat, hard work surface to assemble the tank.
- 4). Tape the tank together carefully with duct tape, making sure that all seams line up neatly and squarely. The pieces should go together so that the four side panels rest on the ground, surrounding the bottom sheet of glass.
- 5). Cut the silicone tube open on a 45-degree angle to allow a 4mm bead of silicone out of the tube.
- 6). Run a bead of silicone quickly, but evenly, along each of the seams on the inside of the tank.
- 7). Smooth the wet silicone into place by running a finger along each of the seams to create a concave depression. This will also help to push some silicone into the gaps between the glass panels.
- 8). Allow the tank to dry for at least 24 hours.
- 9). Attach the rear and cross braces to the tank by applying a bead of silicone around the outside edges of the brace pieces and carefully press them into place. The number of cross braces will vary depending on the length of your tank, but aim to place one every 12 to 18 inches. Tape the braces in place until they are secure.
- 10
Allow the display tank to dry for 48 hours and clean any messy areas of silicone with a razor blade.
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