What thickness glass should I use?

Beyond all doubt, this is the most frequently asked question. The answer is that it depends on the relationship between the height of the water and the design of the bracing supports. There is no simple method of deciding thickness for a given length or volume. Any scale offering you thickness answers derived from volume or length can safely be assumed to be a guess.

Does every aquarium need bracing?

Nearly always, yes, only the smallest aquariums using relatively thick glass can get away without braces.

Do I need to make an iron frame?

No. The silicone and bracing, if properly applied, will be sufficient and an iron frame (or any other type) looks unprofessional.

Are you sure the silicone will hold the glass?

Yes. Millions of aquaria around the world work that way.

Can I move an aquarium without removing the fish?

Only if they can live without the water. To safely move an aquarium, all the water needs to be gone.

If I tell you how many gallons I want, can you tell me the thickness of the glass?

No. That’s like asking a mechanic how to fix your car ‘because it won’t go’. Not even close to enough information.

Why do I need a design plan?

You don’t. All you need is to know is the water column pressure, the tensile strength of the glass and the dimensions and placement of the bracing.

Shouldn’t the glass go on top of the base?

No. There is no good reason to do it the hard way. Aside from ease of construction, there is another reason not to do so, the tensile strength of silicone is double when in sheer.

Why are measurements offered/used in metric?

Because it is the world standard. Only one country, the US, still uses the old English system of fractions but US glass factories and many other US industries, use metric.

What sort of silicone do I need?

Many grades of silicone have been used successfully. Suggestions and information is supplied with your design plans.

Do you have a number I can call for support?

No, however email support is available if something has been left out of the instruction document. We would be grateful for feedback on this.