How to Use Fiberglass Resin for Aquarium Use
Just because you cracked your fish tank during a move or argument over a football game doesn't mean it's a hunk of junk. Rather than running out to buy a new aquarium---or get new friends to watch football with---you can repair your tank with some simple supplies. Using fiberglass resin for aquarium use will not only repair cracks, leaks and mottled seals, but will also allow you to hook up unique fish tank ornaments. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Epoxy resin Aquarium Small scraper Miscellaneous ornamental objects (optional)
Instructions
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Choose your resin. Epoxy resin, which consists of two substances you mix together, is a good choice for your aquarium. Once dried, it becomes waterproof and durable, able to hold up to the water pressure or hold together any fascinating ornaments you create.
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Prepare your tank. Empty the tank completely, removing all standing water, gravel, ornaments and whatever else may be left inside. Rinse it with hot water and scrape off any algae, build up or debris. Dry thoroughly until absolutely no dampness is apparent.
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Set the glass. If the glass is cracked, set it as closely together as possible by applying a strip of tape along the outside of the crack. You may also wish to tape the corners of the aquarium together for added reinforcement if that's where you'll be applying your resin.
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Apply your resin. Mix your polyester epoxy according to the package directions and apply a thin strip along the crack or corners of the tank. Make sure the resin is thick enough to provide a solid wall of reinforcement. Use a small plastic knife or other utensil that often comes with epoxy kits to help guide it into place if necessary.
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Make absolutely, positively sure the resin has completely dried and hardened before you even begin to think of using the tank. Allow it to dry for the recommended time, then wait an extra few hours or day just to be sure.
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Test your work. Before you fill up your tank and happily add new fish, fill the aquarium full of water and allow to stand for at least 24 hours. If it doesn't crack, leak or explode, you're good to go.
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Tips & Warnings
Polyester resin also works well for creating fish tank ornaments. You can glue together a spate of decorative rocks, slate or coral (in saltwater tanks) to create steps, caves and a wide variety of fun stuff. Just make sure whatever you put in the tank will not seep into the water and poison the fish. No coins, please.
Resources
- Photo Credit Illustration by Ryn Gargulinski
