Custom Fish Aquariums

JoeyG · Jul 12, 2012

I am thinking about adding a new branch to JHG WoodWorks. I want to build custom aquariums. It would join my two "hobbies" and be lots of fun…. I think. Building a cabinet for a fish tank is pretty basic. What I want to do is build custom built in aquariums. I would like to build the base, then the glass work and finally the hood. I am leaning towards something that will not be move once it is built. Like built in bookcases. The structural part is no big deal for me, it's the glass work or plywood coatings that I need to learn more about.

If anyone of my fellow jocks have done or do this kind of thing, I would appreciate any and all comments, links, or ideas. Even your crazy's don't do it are welcome. LOL

I have done some research online, what I am looking for now is communications with people who do or have done this kind of work. I know it goes a little outside of woodworking, but the cabinets, framing, trim, doors, etc will be of wood, so I figured it counted.

Thanks in advance for any help.

Joey

vegeta · Jul 12, 2012

there is a cable show called "tanked" and thats what theses guys do is custom fish tanks
that may give you some ideas

JoeyG · Jul 12, 2012

I've seen it Eddy. While they do have great ideas and cool tanks, but I am looking more for someone I can talk with and bounce idea's off of. I doubt those guys have time to answer questions.

OnlyJustME · Jul 12, 2012

so many forums you could join. It's not hard to do, you just need to know what thicknesses the glass has to be for the amount of water going in it. there are calculators available on-line that will tell you. then it's just a matter of prep and time. Not anything that can be rushed.
I personally have not done it yet either but it's something i've always wanted to do and looked in to for myself. i currently have 3 tanks running now and i would love a big one. Were you thinking plywood tank with just the front glass or the whole thing glass to be seen from both sides of the wall? Several people have done it on the forum AquariumAdvice which i am also a member (FishEggs) and you might find some on monsterfishkeepers. They have some full basement builds that are just amazing on there.

mrgrinn · Jul 12, 2012

good luck with your creations…

JoeyG · Jul 12, 2012

Thanks guys. The search continues. LOL If I am able to build one I will post it. It will be a ways down the road, but I really want to give it a try.

Sawkerf · Jul 12, 2012

About five years ago, I was approached by two guys who were starting an aquarium business and wanted me to build the cabinets for their tanks. Sounded pretty good until we began talking about the structure needed to carry several hundred galons, and the need to inform customers that the larger tanks may require beefing up their floor.

We patred company when I told them that I would only work with them if they assumed any and all liability.

zzzzdoc · Aug 29, 2012

Don't underestimate the stresses, necessity to resist salt water, 100% humidity, etc.

My tank weighs 6 tons. Not exactly a routine woodworking project with routine stresses. There are specialty companies that do this sort of thing. Don't want to discourage you, but most clients who buy big bucks tanks go to a small number of companies known for building them.

For smaller tanks, the market is wider open.

Custom Fish Aquariums

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