55g Canopy

[popkorn247]

Ok I have a huge issue. hah we all do right? anyways I want to build a canopy. But I can't figure out how and needing some plans. I looked through all kinds of DIY projects. I found a site that has several designs on it. http://www.aquariacentral.com/diy/canopy.shtml I like the models D and E. My dilemma is I can't figure out how to place it? On the inside rim of the tank or make a lip on the inside of the canopy? Whats the max and min. height of the canopy I can go? Oh and what do I need under it? Acrylic or glass? thickness? I'm dumbfounded. Cut the front section out so I can feed the fish or other maintenence issues. And where to place the filter skimmer and such?? Help would be helpful.

 

[Lepomis]

Ok, I am not a carpenter. First just remember essentially you are building a box. It can be overwhelming at first but then this makes it a little easier. Head to the local LFS with a camera and take plenty of pictures. The ones I have built are more like A. I usually make a "frame" out of 1x2's and is built to sit on the tank. Use plenty of glue and few brads for safe measure. I then skin the frame with a veneer ply. This stand used cherry veneer. The lid is built to match the bottom half. I used some cherry I had laying around in the shop for the trim work to finish off the canopy. I made sure to create a lip for the lid to cover the bottom portion of the canopy and to make a lip to keep the canopy on the stand. I raised the back support so that HOB filters could be used if wanted. I suggest using an outdoor rated glue. I then sealed the inside of the canopy with several layers of paint and then several coats of polyurethane. I plan on placing some locking hinges on the lid so it won't slam shut. I like the top to open completely because it makes it easier to service things inside the tank or you can just remove the entire canopy. Height take a look at some salt water canopys guy with metal halides make some rather large canopys (thesee also open from the front). I like to keep the back open for ventilation. I havent had any problems with warpage with any of the canopys built this way yet. Hopefully the pics will be a little more informative. Typically I build the canopy and stand so that the horrible plastic frame is covered. I plan on spraying the frame black on the tank in the pictures.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v302/TravisH/IM000843.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v302/TravisH/IM000837.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v302/TravisH/IM000836.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v302/TravisH/IM000838.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v302/TravisH/IM000839.jpg

 

[ryan]

that is pretty much how i build mine to lol except i havent made one with a lid im acually building a canopy for my 55 right now im trying to put fans in for better ventalation then my usual keep the back open hopefully i can do this i kno im posting late but good luck hope it works out