135 aquarium current task undertaking

[a1wonder]

The challenge is on and I guess the hardest part is now over (which was convincing my parents to let me do this in the first place). I'm hopping to make a 72in by 24in by 18in tank. I know this are some wanky odd measurements but I think this actually might be the best combination, the fish I'm looking to be keeping are maybe a red finned shark and fish similar to silver dollars.

As this is just sketches in the sand currently I'd love to bounce ideas off all that feel like contrubting their two sents. I'm thinking of using 12mm glass for the tank. I'll post more details latter. I'm getting a professional glazer to help with the tank so hopefully that will help.

 

[Stryker]

Anothing to consider is do you save much money? compared to generic tanks (not the branded ones).

Here in the UK even the generic tanks are expensive, however I got my 72x24x24 tank for only £200 brand new. (thats what? almost $400). Can you get the glass real cheap?

I only ask as I could swear I've seen posts from people state side claiming to have got large tanks for around $200.

It would be an interesting and rewarding project though.

 

[Great Lakes]

Building is best for custom sized tanks.
By all means don't let us stop you if you are intent on a DIY tank.
But if bucks is the object, used is the way to go.

GL

 

[Ob1]

I think that is a cool size - let us know how you get on.

 

[fufanu360]

ya used is the way to go if you want a broken tank, and water stained house

sounds cool! though, my dad has made many tanks

 

[a1wonder]

After current review I've called many glass places around my city today and the cost of glass would be around at least 600 dollars. plus all the fixing and tax. The reason I thought this might be a better opinion than buying new is that new tank around winnipeg are easily 2 grand or more which is outrageous. I have reduced my tank size to 72*18*18. Which is rather sad but what can I do and it is still above my price range. I'm currently going to keep my eyes open for a used tank in the buy and sell or a really good deal on glass.

 

[Yenko]

You could save some money by making a wooden tank with a glass window. I think the most economical option is either a generic new tank or a good quality used one.

 

[a1wonder]

Actually I was looking into doing a fiberglass tank with one window but I thought the weight might actually be more than doing an all glass. You wouldn't happen to have any links on what your suggesting do you? That sounds like a interesting idea that I'd like to look into more. My bf dad is a wood worker so that might be a option worth considering. I'm also keeping my eyes out for a couple of used tank although this is really not the time of year to be looking seeing as how it is minus -36C here few people want to bother selling big tanks.

 

[Rivermud76]

Check this thread out.

Plywood tank