Did I make a mistake? Aquarium build DIY

[Nate Chalk]

I am currently working on building my first DIY aquarium. I've notice two different constructions of the 5 panels for an aquarium.

1. The side panels are mounted directly on top of the bottom panel.
2. The side panels are mounted to the side of the bottom panel.

Which is better? Is there a difference?

Link to my build thread

72x30x18 DIY build thread

And away....we.... go! Glass is here, sump here, all the supplies to build and drill ready to go.

www.reef2reef.com

-Nate

 

[Ludders]

I would use two layers of base glass, so you float a smaller pane on the absolute bottom one. This way your sides are bonded to the bottom and glass thickness up the wall.
Hope that makes sense.

 

[Nate Chalk]

I would use two layers of base glass, so you float a smaller pane on the absolute bottom one. This way your sides are bonded to the bottom and glass thickness up the wall.
Hope that makes sense.

I've definitely seen that construction as well. Am i completely screwed if im only mounting to the top of the bottom panel?

 

[Ludders]

No I wouldn't say so. I'll take a look at your build thread now...

This is a video of what I mean.

 

[Ludders]

So when you spec'd the dimensions for the glass, did you plan on it sitting on top of the base glass, or the sides of the base glass?

 

[Nate Chalk]

So when you spec'd the dimensions for the glass, did you plan on it sitting on top of the base glass, or the sides of the base glass?

I planned to set the glass on top of the bottom panel. That's how I had seen many other videos shown. What threw me off is I have a smaller rimless tank that is built "2. The side panels are mounted to the side of the bottom panel. "

I had seen the video you shared, and its on top of the glass, I plan to do internal bracing and top bracing euro. So perhaps that'll make it fine?

 

[Ludders]

1/2" glass with your bracing should be fine. I think if you were going braceless it would matter more and I would go the way of that video I posted.
Have you got a drawing of your design showing where the bracing would go?

 

[Nate Chalk]

I was thinking 2x euro bracing.

one set around the top rim, and another set on the bottom. Similar accomplishment to the video posted.

 

[Nate Chalk]

Though , I should be able to get away with a rimless no bracing. Bracing is safer I've been recommended

 

[Ludders]

yep that should do it IMO