Do it myself or buy it from scratch?
Printed From: Utah Reefs
Category: Specialized Discussion
Forum Name: DIY
Forum Description: Do it Yourself
URL: http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=13166
Printed Date: July 15 2026 at 10:36pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.03 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: Do it myself or buy it from scratch?
Posted By: bbauman
Subject: Do it myself or buy it from scratch?
Date Posted: July 16 2006 at 4:25pm
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Let's start off with some background. I have a 75g acrylic tank that I got from my uncle for free 2 years ago when I started this hobby. (43x13x30) I was always so excited to go look at his tank that he noticed and wanted to help me out. After giving me this tank, and some HOT stuff (skimmer, powerheads) he had laying around, and showing me where to buy some things, I was on my way. I had a custom stand built that fit the dimensions of the tank and began buying other things to complete it. My first mistake was not researching reef aquariums enough to know the benefits of a sump or fuge. Another problem I have is that this tank bows, doesn't have a top of any kind whatsoever, and I live in an apartment where I don't believe I can drill holes in the ceiling to suspend my tank lights. I have them just sitting on top right now at an angle. (stupid and scary -Brandon
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) Now that I know about sumps, fuges, overflows, etc. and with my lighting condition, should I try and fix the situation myself or buy a new tank, stand and hood? If I did do it myself, I don't know if acrylic is drillable, nor how big of a sump or fuge I could or should have to make it worth my time. Am I better off just buying new or used? I have been really tempted to just buy one of these other tanks I see in the board. 
Any clues, suggestions, thoughts, opinions, or anything else are appreciated! Thanks!Replies:
Posted By: Gahlenfr
Date Posted: July 16 2006 at 5:33pm
If you like the tank, take it to Eric at Marine Aquatics and have him Euro brace it for you. If you want a new tank then if you are patient you can find a great deal on this forum. Many of us have done that and saved a lot of money. You don't have to suspend lights from the ceiling. I have had mine suspended from an arm mounted on the wall via a stud. I had two of the hangers and I purchased them from HD. The held my T5 light fixture and MH pendant just fine. Even a ten gallon fuge is better than none at all. I am sure others will speak up with more advice. That is the great thing about this members .
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Posted By: bbauman
Date Posted: July 16 2006 at 6:18pm
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Thanks for the great advice. Sorry if I sound dumb, but what is a Euro brace? |
Posted By: Shane H
Date Posted: July 16 2006 at 10:40pm
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Euro bracing is simply a an acrylic top with large access holes. It would solve your bowing problem. Eurobracing is common with acrylic tanks. Hunt around and you should be able to find some examples either here or around other sites.
If you decide to have it done, I'm sure Eric at Marine Aquatics will do an awesome job.
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Posted By: bbauman
Date Posted: July 17 2006 at 12:15am
the only problem is what do I do with all my fish and stuff while he's doing that? 
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