How to Repair a Crack in an Acrylic Aquarium

Keeping an acrylic aquarium in your home spices up the décor. However, these aquariums can wear down over time and a single crack is probably just the first step on the road to failure of the tank as a whole. For small damaged areas, you can simply repair the crack to reestablish the integrity of the aquarium and avoid having to buy a new tank.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel
  • Acetone or vinegar
  • Rags
  • Caulking gun
  • Aquarium safe silicone sealant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Move any tank inhabitants to a temporary housing and empty all water from the tank. Dry the interior of the tank with a clean, lint-free towel.

    • 2

      Ventilate your work area well or work outside. Cleaners and sealants produce strong fumes that can be overwhelming if inhaled for a long period of time.

    • 3

      Clean the area around the crack with acetone or vinegar to remove all dirt and dust. These solvent cleaners will also remove grease or oil, but will not harm animals if a little remains when you refill the tank.

    • 4

      Fill a caulking gun with aquarium-safe silicone sealant. Squeeze a thin bead of sealant into the crack until it slightly overfills the crack. Fill the entire crack.

    • 5

      Spread the silicone around with a wet finger to make sure it fills in the entire crack. Wipe away any excess sealant with a damp sponge or paper towel. Allow the sealant to dry per product instructions (generally 48 hours).

    • 6

      Refill the tank and allow it to sit undisturbed for three or four days to ensure the crack will not leak. When you are confident in your repair work, return the inhabitants to the tank.