DIY Hexagon Tank

Hexagon tanks provide more of an abstract look than a typical rectangle tank. With six panes of glass to view from, this kind of tank can easily be placed in the center of a room. Being a pricey centerpiece to buy, though, it may be worth your while to build your own. When determining the size of tank to build, take into consideration the type of fish that you wish to keep. Bigger fish need a bigger tank. Many highly reproductive fish will need a bigger tank as well.

Things You'll Need

  • 8 panes of precut glass
  • Nontoxic silicone sealant
  • Acetone
  • Paper towels
  • Silicone-carbide sandpaper
  • Duct tape
  • Scissors
  • Razor blade
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the size of tank that you wish to build. You will need six rectangle panes for the sides, one hexagon pane for the bottom, and half of the bottom size for the top. When ordering the correct sizes from a glass cutter, let them know it is for an aquarium. They will help you determine the needed thickness of the glass.

    • 2

      Lay all of the panes on a hard, flat surface. Using your sandpaper, rub all the edges of each piece of glass to smooth any rough or sharp edges. Apply a liberal amount of acetone to a paper towel and apply it to each sandpapered edge. With your scissors, cut 18 3-inch pieces of duct tape and adhere the ends to your work surface within easy reach.

    • 3

      Place the hexagon bottom piece in front of you. Take a rectangle piece and, while holding it vertically, line the bottom of it up with the edge of the hexagon piece. Hold in place with one hand while adding another rectangle pane. Line up the edges of the rectangle panes with each other and place a piece of duct tape on the top, middle and bottom across both of pieces to hold them together. Repeat with the remaining rectangle pieces. When all pieces are taped in place, make sure they create a hexagon shape and align correctly with the bottom piece. Adjust if necessary.

    • 4

      Place the tip of your silicone tube in the bottom corner of one of the taped creases. Squeeze a liberal amount in the crease and work your way up. Run your finger up the line that you just made to push the silicone deeper into the crease. Repeat this process in all of the creases, including around the bottom piece.

    • 5

      Wait 24 hours for the silicone to cure a bit. Use your razor blade to cut away any extra silicone or drip marks. Wait a total of 48 hours to wash the tank out, as it will need time for the silicone to fully cure. While washing, look for any leaks. If leaks are found, refill the entire crease with silicone and wait another 48 hours to retest. Move the tank to a sturdy display area before filling up with water and adding fish. After the desired contents are added to the tank, place the remaining piece of glass on the top as a lid.