How to Replace Large Aquarium Frames

Large fish aquariums in the home can provide endless enjoyment and add an aesthetic value to the room it is in. However, if the plastic frame on your aquarium cracks or is damaged in some other way, it can eventually spell disaster if your tank begins to leak. Aquariums are simply five glass panes that are melded together with silicone sealant. The frames on the top and bottom provide important structural support. If a section of frame is damaged, it places all the stress of the water pressure against the glass seals.

Things You'll Need

  • Bucket
  • Scoop net
  • Holding tank
  • Backup pump and filter (optional)
  • Towel
  • Heat gun
  • Exacto knife
  • Silicone sealant (aquarium safe)
  • Replacement frame
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scoop out enough water from your large tank to fill the spare aquarium you will use to hold your fish while you replace your frame.

    • 2

      Scoop out the fish and place them in the holding tank. Also transfer your pump and filter to the holding tank, or set up a smaller pump-filter temporarily if you have one.

    • 3

      Drain out the rest of the water and gravel or sand if you have it.

    • 4

      Dry your aquarium out thoroughly with a dry towel after you have removed all of its contents.

    • 5

      Place your aquarium on a work bench or other flat, safe area to work.

    • 6

      Plug in your heat gun, let it warm up and then begin moving it along the seam of the top frame. This will allow the existing silicone sealant to melt, which in turn will help you to remove the frame.

    • 7

      Run the tip of your Exacto knife along the seam simultaneously as you move the heat gun along the frame. Continue doing this around the perimeter of the frame until you are able to pry the old frame completely off. Use rubbing alcohol on a rag to wipe off all the old silicone from around the top edge of your aquarium.

    • 8

      Place fresh sealant along the inside of the new frame. Work your way around the entire frame and then set the new frame back on top of your aquarium. Press the new frame down firmly into place and use a rag to wipe off any silicone that squishes out onto the surface of your aquarium glass.

    • 9

      Allow at least 24 hours for the top frame to dry.

    • 10

      Flip the aquarium over on the work bench and again, use the heat gun and an Exacto knife to work the bottom frame off the aquarium. Use alcohol on a cloth rag and the Exacto knife to remove all the old silicone from the glass.

    • 11

      Spread fresh silicone sealant inside the bottom section of frame and then press the frame in place on the bottom of the aquarium.

    • 12

      Allow another 24 hours for the bottom tank frame to dry.

    • 13

      Fill your aquarium with water and let it sit for several hours to make sure the seals have held.

    • 14

      Dump out that water and add fresh gravel or sand. Set your aquarium back on its display stand. Add fresh water. However, if using tap water be sure to use Aqua Safe or a similar product to remove chlorine according to the directions on the packet.

    • 15

      Add the water from the holding tank to your aquarium and transfer the fish over. Also replace your pump and filter system.