repairing tank

[will74]

Has anyone ever tried to replace just one side of a tank before? Or would it be better to just rebuild the whole tank?

[Alan R]

To me it would all depend on the size of the tank. If it were a 55g for example I would throw it out and get another. A 220 as another example may be worth repairing. I have never done it but I would certainly try to replace the broken glass before I tackle a complete rebuild.

[will74]

The tank is a 40 breeder and the silicone is completely removed and the glass is an exact fit. Just figured I would save 100 dollars by trying to do it. I have all the tools to do it with and am very experienced at diy projects.

[SubluxT7]

I don't see why you couldn't. I don't see it as anything different from resealing a leaking tank. Either way, good luck on your project!

SubluxT7:headbang2:

[Weezer]

Go for it............:grinyes:

[J double R]

should be fairly straightforward.. use silicone to bond the glass as well as seal the inside, and you should be golden. let us know how it goes! :)

[The Zigman]

is it a frameless tank?

[Alan R]

Zig a 40 breeder is not frameless. Also not intended to hold water. Its meant for reptiles which makes the task even simpler imo. I'd give it a go.

[DAVIDFBT]

Plenty of people use 40 breeders for aquariums, they're not just for reptiles.

[will74]

So far it is fine, got a good bead of silicone 1 all the way around the seam. I am going to let it dry for a couple of days and fill it up to see if it leaks then I will let you know how it goes.
And also a 40 breeder is not just for reptiles, it is actually made to hold water. The wide and short dimensions give it more floor space for cover oriented fish enabling the fry and females to not be harassed by the dominant male.

[Alan R]

Plenty of people use 40 breeders for aquariums, they're not just for reptiles.

They are just "for" reptiles. Although they do hold water they are not designed for it. The glass is much thinner and cracks easily. They are not made to hold the pressure and the weight of water along with all the other variables in an aquarium.
Yes, they "can" be used as aquariums, but that not what they are "for". To be quite honest, it's not a very good idea. 40 gallons of water in a floor could be disastrous.
I used to be in the reptile business as some here already know. I have cracked countless 40 breeders just from the slightest things. Like bumping the side with my elbow while cleaning for example. If you do have one that the manufacturer specifically states that can be used as an aquarium then it is highly unlikely you have a true 40 breeder.

[DAVIDFBT]

^ Huh, there must be 2 types of them then. The 40 Breeders I see in Petsmart have glass about 1/2 inch thick, which is about the thickness of a 55G's glass, so I thought it should hold water.