Glue A good glue is needed for sticking the glass walls together effectively: transparent silicone glue for this purpose is available. When exposed to the air it hardens to form a watertight join. The speed of hardening depends on temperature, so special care must be taken in summer. At a temperature of 19-20 C, the […]
Materials and tools Glass The fundamental material for your aquarium, the element which underpins its existence, is obviously glass. It can be cut to measure in glass merchants or do-it-yourself stores. This operation must be performed correctly, as any slight mistake in the cutting can have serious consequences, especially if the corners are […]
MAKING AN AQUARIUM OF GLUED GLASS Making an aquarium with glued glass is not the exclusive domain of professionals; these days it is also an option for hobbyists. The crucial factor is the care taken in the operation, along with a good organization of the work plan and respect for the sequence of the operation. […]
The support As we have already seen, the weight of an aquarium is quite considerable. It is therefore vital to set up a sturdy and perfectly horizontal support (check the latter with a spirit level). Special furniture is available in the aquarium trade, but you can just as well build one yourself, the essential point […]
THE LID The lid, placed directly above the tank, is necessary for several reasons: - to avoid water spilling on the lighting hood; - to stop dust falling into the water; - to prevent any possible jumping fish escaping from the tank; - to reduce evaporation. The lid must be made of glass to allow […]
An aquarium must be positioned with care, as once it is filled it will be impossible to move it anywhere else. It is a complicated decision, involving the visual impact on the room, practical considerations, and ecological criteria. Visual impact Obviously, a big tank fits better into a large room, and a narrow […]
Materials Commercial aquariums are almost always made of glued glass, with silicone joints. These materials are suitable for water volumes of around 500 liters - volumes rarely exceeded in the aquarium trade. The generalized nature of the materials and the relative simplicity of the gluing mean that any careful hobbyist can build a glued glass […]