Is this strong?

[smoothounds]

I am rebuilding an aquarium and I had a question regarding its strength. There was wood that framed the top and bottom of the tank, I am pretty sure it was just for looks. Do you think it was for strength? The aquarium is 140 gallons made of 3/8 glass.

 

[tdragon]

yes u have to leave that on thereif not all sides will fall apart when filled with water i speak form experiance i did it o find out it it would work and its a good thing i filled it up out side cause all 4 sides just went there own ways

 

[rick58]

Wood, even finished hardwood, expands and contracts with changes in humidity and heat. It also shrinks as it dries out over time. Any aquarium built with a real wood frame for support would need to take this into account. It would be difficult to get the frame tight enough for support, but with enough play to allow for expansion and contration. I doubt the frame was for support, if it was, it was either a very poor choice or done by a very adept wood worker.

 

[smoothounds]

one says safe one says not. I need someone elses opinion. Help me out.

 

[naturelover]

You do need that support of wood.
Here is sample. if you see at the stores where they have lizzard tanks with the top frame cut off and set up as sliding cover top (mostly used for snakes). It clearly says do not fill with water. Reason the tank is not strong to hold water because without one part of frame cut off. slicon only is not enough to hold the pressure IMO.

 

[fishman830]

yep support.. you need it kinda like an above groud pool without those aluminum/ steel posts, it'll just fall over

 

[smoothounds]

Should I have it reframed in wood or is there something that would work better? And if there is where should I get it?

 

[squidd]

With 3/8" glass there isn't a lot of strength at the top of the tank to hold against bowing of the front glass...
The bottom if securely siliconed for the entire length it will be fine.
You could add two 4" glass "cross braces" siliconed across the tank , front to back, in two places across the top,evenly spaced.
This will help in holding back the outward pressure of the water on the glass.
There is a chart of recommended glass thickness per size (height and length) along with bracing recommendations on saltaquarium.about.com (mods- no competitive advertising on this site)Look for DIY aquarium projects...then glass size calculator.

 

[smoothounds]

On the top of the tank there are two 3" pieces of glass that run almost the entire length of the front and the back of the tank and are connected by three 3" cross braces. This is why I thought it would be strong enough to remove the wood framing. I need your advice though I dont want to fill this thing without being sure, and be kickin myself when it breaks.

 

[squidd]

If your tank is braced with glass as you say then you will be fine...
In your case the wood was just on for "decorative" trim.

 

[smoothounds]

I hope your right. I am going to fill it today. Does anyone else have some advice before I gamble with this tank?

 

[squidd]

Just fill the tank already...
I've got a lot of money riding on this down at the "Fish Club"...
Of course I'm not saying which way I bet...

Just Kidding...Your safe...

 

[smoothounds]

If it breaks its on you SQUID! Im filling it already! I'll keep you posted.

 

[j21kickster]

are you speaking about a cross bar as well- one that goes across the tank- if you are- yes that should not be removed-BTW how old is this aquarium?

 

[smoothounds]

Its to late. I already filled it. It has been holding water for 6 hours now. Lets hope it holds or else I'm going after SQUIDD!!!! LOL!!

 

[squidd]

Originally posted by smoothounds
Its to late. ... Lets hope it holds or else I'm going after SQUIDD!!!! LOL!!
So, it's been a couple days...Is it Safe to come out now...