Alternatives to Glass Tops

[Michael Rossi]

I've been searching and reading all day on this topic. I never liked glass tops on aquariums and my wife just pointed out that she isn't a fan of the one we have on now either. I was thinking egg crate, but it seems the holes are too large and some fish can still get through. Right now I only have a 46W lighting so I only have simple, hardy corals and, of course, fish. I saw references to a DIY mesh top but my tank has a center bar. Would I need to buy two kits? How hard are they to assemble? Any other recommendations?

 

[cmaxwell39]

The Mesh top is the way to go. You will need to build two tops (one for each side of your center brace) but depending on the size of each you may be able to get away with one kit.

I would recommend the 1/4" mesh screen that BRS or other places sell, and then go to lowes or home depot and get the framing used for making screens. This is what you are looking for. You will also need these. Finally you will need some spline to hold the mesh into the frame that you made and you are ready to go.

 

[Michael Rossi]

Thanks. And thanks for the links. I've been watching a ton of BSR videos and I'd be shocked if they didn't have one on this. Going to do some more searching

 

[Michael Rossi]

They should really just sell these assembled for common sizes lol

 

[DaddyFish]

The Mesh top is the way to go.

I disagree. I prefer glass tops, or at least covered tanks for the evaporation control, protection from airborne contaminants that may settle on the top and other reasons.

Try this material for fabricating your own covers...
Polycarbonate Greenhouse Panels at HD