Building a Sump

[Wwidener]

I'm considering building my next sump/tank. I see 1/2" acrylic at Home Depot and online at places like One Source LLC and wonder if this clear acrylic (plexiglass) is the same kind as used in aquariums. Is it?

 

[Sniperhank]

I am not sure. I know I used glass that I had cut there when I built my first one

 

[agrasyuk]

Home Depot carries two types of clear plastic sheeting - acrylic and polycarbonate.never worked with poly, I'm pretty sure the acrylic in HD is extruded. Aquariums are usually built from cast sheets not extruded. But I wouldn't hesitate using HD acrylic for something like a sump. Since it's usually hidden and does not have to look very presentable the flexible sheeting can be sufficiently reinforced with something.

 

[coralbandit]

I believe what HD lowes sells is not the same or of 'good enough' quality.
The acrylic[not plexi glass] sumps are made from 'cast acrylic' I believe.
I would use an aquarium from the DPG and make or buy the add ons . Silicone does not adhere to acrylic or plexi glass so you need to buy the proper adhesive if use acrylic.
I have made many sumps and they are easy..
Acrylic to acrylic is Weldon #4 or #16
Go glass and just use GE #1 silicone.
If you can cut glass just get an extra [20g for $20] tank at DPG and harvest the pieces.. That is the absolute cheapest way to build quality.

 

[Wwidener]

I believe what HD lowes sells is not the same or of 'good enough' quality.
The acrylic[not plexi glass] sumps are made from 'cast acrylic' I believe.
I would use an aquarium from the DPG and make or buy the add ons . Silicone does not adhere to acrylic or plexi glass so you need to buy the proper adhesive if use acrylic.
I have made many sumps and they are easy..
Acrylic to acrylic is Weldon #4 or #16
Go glass and just use GE #1 silicone.
If you can cut glass just get an extra [20g for $20] tank at DPG and harvest the pieces.. That is the absolute cheapest way to build quality.

DPG = Dollar per Gallon??

 

[Fresh2o]

DPG = Dollar per Gallon??

Yes. Great deal!

 

[coralbandit]

DPG is every 3 months.. On now so again from last week of Dec. until 3rd week in January.
Petco and Petsplus I think also..