Things You'll Need
- 2-by-2-inch board, sanded
- Yardstick or measuring tape
- Nontoxic waterproof exterior paint or sealant
- Screen
- Safety goggles
- Scissors
- Circular saw
- Hammer
- Nails
- Staple gun
Instructions
Measure the length and width of your aquarium. Add 4 inches to the width measurement and 1/2 inch to the length measurement. Write down these dimensions.
Put on your safety goggles. Using a circular saw, cut two pieces of 2-by-2-inch board to the length you determined in Step 1. Then cut two more to the appropriate width, for a total of four pieces of wood.
Coat the pieces in nontoxic waterproof exterior paint or sealant. Allow them to dry for at least 48 hours.
Form a rectangular box using the four pieces, placing the width pieces so they extend over the length pieces and the edges line up flush. Secure the pieces together using a hammer and nails. This will serve as your frame.
Measure a rectangle of screen that is 2 inches larger than your frame, all the way around. Cut out a rectangle of screen, using scissors.
Stretch the piece of screen over the top of the frame. It should reach all the way over the outside of the frame to a spot on what will become the frame's underside. Secure using a staple gun. If you are concerned about protruding staples or if you'd like your lid to have a more professional look, there are plastic framing products you can buy to cover up the outside of your frame. Should you choose to use these products, follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and care.
Set the lid on top of your aquarium. Do not secure the lid, as you will need to take it on and off for feedings and cleaning. If you are concerned that other pets, such as cats, might pry the lid off and help themselves to a fish dinner, you can buy clips that will temporarily secure your lid until you are ready to remove it.