How long does a tank last

[JRT]

Have just been given a 72x24x24 tank complete with stand filters lighting and hood. Also has a small breeding tank in the base.
The tank has been dry for 5 years and there is a bit of damage on the corners of the base.
Should i bin the glass or is it worth re sealing.

 

[Joviella]

Lucky you.......I would think that its worth re-sealing it.

 

[JRT]

Have spent most of this morning and yesterday cleaning it.
It does need a complete re seal but what worries me the most is it looks like someone has put it down on the corner and it has crushed part of the base it does not actually leak but if i were to fill it up i am not so sure it would be safe.
Also i have found some large scratches on the underside of the base.
Hafe spoken to my LFS and they suggested putting triangualar plates in the corners when i re seal it.
I was also thinking of putting a frame around it made from 50mm angled Brass

 

[parker313]

If nothing else, for a starting point, you can fill it up and let it sit for a couple of days and see if there is any leak at this point.

 

[CFC]

Get a sheet of glass cut to the dimensions of the base and stick it on with blobs of silicone to strengthen the underside of the tank, will still be alot cheaper than buying a whole tank and will give you peace of mind that the base will hold.

 

[JRT]

I thought about putting a sheet in side but would not be able to get a complete sheet in through the top as it is heavily braced all around might be able to split into smaller pieces maybe 4
Have nearly finnished cleaning off all the silicone.
Shall contemplate what to do over a large glass of red.

 

[CFC]

Silicone the sheet to the bottom of the tank on the outside, there is no need to place it inside

 

[JRT]

I have to either remove the base or repair it from the inside.
now i have finnished removing all the sillicone there are holes in the corners that go all the way through to the outside so just adding a base to the underside IMHO would not sufficent.
Maybe fit triangular plates to the inside and another plate on the underside.