How to Build a Plastic Tank

If you have pet fish, there are a number of reasons why a plastic or acrylic tank might appeal to you. Acrylic is a type of sturdy, clear plastic that store-bought aquariums are made from. Acrylic is easy to clean and less likely than glass to scratch. It is also virtually indestructible, so if your tank meets with some mishap, all may not be lost. Acrylic has better insulating properties than glass does, so your acrylic tank will keep your fish warmer while consuming less energy. You can build acrylic tanks at home so you can custom-make the size you need.

Things You'll Need

  • 3 sheets, 1/2-inch thick cell cast acrylic, 48 inches by 24 inches
  • 2 sheets, 1/2-inch thick cell cast acrylic, 19 inches by 24 1/2 inches
  • Books
  • Duct tape
  • Silicone aquarium sealant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a plastic dealer in your town and order your acrylic sheets in the size you need. Sheets this size will make a 90-gallon tank, and you can order your sheets larger or smaller if you want a smaller or larger tank. Acrylic is sold in very large sheets, but most dealers will cut them for you for free. Do not attempt to cut the acrylic yourself. You need special equipment that is manufactured exclusively for cutting acrylic, and if you try to make your own cuts without this equipment, your plastic will splinter and could be dangerous.

    • 2

      Leave the protective paper on your acrylic sheets until your project is completed so that they remain clean and unscathed.

    • 3

      Set one of the larger sheets on a flat surface. Place the other two larger sheets on their sides, resting along the long edges of the base sheet. Use some heavy books to hold the sheets upright and in place for the time being.

    • 4

      Set the two smaller sheets at either open end of the long sheets. The smaller sheets should be resting on their edges on your flat surface, enclosing the longer sheets. The tops of the smaller sheets should be flush with the top edges of the longer sheets. Peel the edges of the protective paper back slightly so that no paper is trapped between the plastic sheets.

    • 5

      Secure the sheets in place by duct taping around the outside of the tank. Make sure that all the pieces fit snugly together and there are no gaps or overhanging edges.

    • 6

      Seal the inside seams of the tank together with the aquarium sealant. Apply the sealant generously, making sure that there are no gaps in your application. Run your finger along the bead smudging the sealant into the seams. This will make your tank waterproof.

    • 7

      Allow the sealant to dry for at least 48 hours or as directed on the tube. Your tank is now ready to be furnished and inhabited.