To Backer Paper or Not - Need your Opinion

[fish4phil]

36G Bowfront Freshwater Tropical Tank.

I'm trying to decide to add a black background or not. I know it's purpose is (almost) purely aesthetic, but, what do you think? See attached for with and without (bare in mind, the "with" is simply a black t-shirt hung behind to get an idea)

Here's the thing, obviously that tank is all set up, weighing 300-350 pounds. Moving it would be hard. I could just tape it on or somehow move it?

 

[Ian086]

36G Bowfront Freshwater Tropical Tank.

I'm trying to decide to add a black background or not. I know it's purpose is (almost) purely aesthetic, but, what do you think? See attached for with and without (bare in mind, the "with" is simply a black t-shirt hung behind to get an idea)

Here's the thing, obviously that tank is all set up, weighing 300-350 pounds. Moving it would be hard. I could just tape it on or somehow move it?

Definitely with. I would paint it though. A matt black is best imo...

 

[Super_Blueberry]

I painted the back of a small 10g black to see what I thought.

Pros: Permanent, Consistent look (no light/dark splotches), I can not see the filter or filter without really having to look, fish tend to color up better trying to match a dark surrounding opposed to fading out to match a bright surrounding.

Cons: Permanent, Tank overall looks darker than I really wanted, fairly easy to scratch/peel and those blemishes show up.

 

[t4runnr]

It's only permanent depending on the type of paint used. I paint the backs of my tanks with Plastidip which is a spray on plastic. It's pretty rugged stuff and if you don't want it anymore it's peels right off. You might have to start it with a razor blade but it comes off without the need for any solvents.

The black I used is a flat black. The best part of painting (regardless of the type used) is that moisture or air bubbles aren't present between the glass and paint.