Leaking Tank - Silicone Seal Broken

[jonnyf84]

Hi, i had a bit of a shock today when i was looking at my tank and i noticed the glass sides were coming away from each other in the front right corner, the inside seal is almost fully intact but i can slide my nail down the crack on the outside and when i squeeze the two sides of glass together a drop of water comes out. The outside seal is broken down to where i have lowered the water level on the pictures below but its worse at the top.

Unfortunately I can't afford to buy a new tank at the moment so I was hoping that by lowering the water level it would relieve pressure on the broken seal and that it would dry out by mid-afternoon today when i will pick up some silicone and thoroughly seal the outside corner, it won't be aquarium silicone but it will have to do. Will this work?

My concerns are that the fish, water and plants will still be in the tank when i do this - will this effect the quality of the new seal?

Is there a better way fix it?

I wont be able to reply to responses throughout the day i'm afraid so please just keep any sound advice coming.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Hokum]

Lowering the water will reduce the pressure so that will help I'd also recommend you use something to brace the top of the tank. Something like gaffa tape may do the trick to allow you to pull is back into shape then stick the tape around the whole top (you may need a second person to help while you hold it). The silicone glue/sealant is usually fish safe if you buy the aquarium stuff.

 

[chestnutree]

Or just something like strong string or thin rope to tie around the top to pull it back together? this way if you are able to repair the seal instead of replacing the tank, you won't be left with a sticky mess around the glass

 

[raptorrex]

where are you jonnyf84. this tank needs mended. if your are close enough, i have several tanks you could borrow until you have a proper repair.