Painting a background on an acryllic tank
- Thread starter alextrif
- Start date
dogstar
Active Member
When I built my acrylic tank I used a rubber base spray paint I got at HD. In a can just like regular spraycan. I dont remenber the brand but it was near all the other spray paint. took a few coats to get it where light would not come thru. I didnt trust any thing else like the enamle ect. for cemical reaction. I did a test on a peice of scap and had no problems. And you probly know this but I better say it just in case. Paint the outside not the inside. Just cover tank real good so no over spray gets inside.
A
andretti
Guest
You can use any paint that is water based. I used a quart of Glidden from that famous home improvement warehouse (you aren't allowed to mention other links and/or companies on this website). You want to buy a semigloss or a highgloss. Personally speaking, I along W/most reefers out there prefer a black background, it helps hide powerheads, plumbing, etc. You also want to buy SUPER SUPER SUPER SUPER FINE steelwoll or wet/dry sandpaper and "scuff" the back of your tank. This will give the paint something to "grab" to. You don't want to scratch it, just scuff it. If you don't, the paint will more than likely peel/flake off. I think I used 600 on mine; the higher the number, the finer the grit. (you more than likely know this, but I'm just including it if you don't) You will need a minium of three coats. Make sure you let it dry at least 1-2 hours between coats (depends on temperature and humidity). Again, a quart should get you by...unless you have a 500 gallon tank. Write me back and let me know how it goes.
rubberduck
Active Member
are you talking on the outside?