checking tank for leaks

[Srenaeb]

Hello,
i bought a 72g bow front tank, used,
and currently checking if it will hold water.

Today I've put it in the driveway, filled it up half full with water, marked water level with a marker outside the tank, and covered it up with plastic tarp (where I live it rains a lot).

Tomorrow if there's no noticeable change in water level, I'm going to fill it up all the way, and leave it again for another day.

Questions :
1) Is this a long enough time to notice any leaks? Am I doing this right?
2) If there is a leak can I take it to a LFS to get fixed, and approximately how much?

[jbradt]

Sounds like a good plan to check for leaks. I think 24 hrs is reasonable. You can have it fixed, some lfs will do it, some won't. A glass shop may be able to fix it for you as well, just be sure to let them know what type of silicone to use. You can also fix it yourself with very little expense and a bit of work. If you can caulk a seam in a window or bathtub you can reseal a fish tank. Good luck with the project!

[Srenaeb]

Tested for a few days =) no leaks

Has anyone heard of a tank being tested for more than 72 hours, then gets filled for real, THEN leak and break ?? =P I really hope this does not happen as I am a renter

[odinthejd]

nope

[Rbishop]

Yes. But it was usually caused by the tank/stand not being properly leveled and the resulting twist caused a seam to seperate.

[Srenaeb]

oh I see.
=) well I'd better go get the thing properly leveled then, thanks!