Polycarbonate is a popular choice for aquarium lids due to its durability, light weight, and flexibility.
Creating a DIY tank cover with polycarbonate sheets can be a practical solution and many people like these lightweight tops over glass tops.
Here's a simple guide to make a custom tank cover:
Materials and Tools
- Polycarbonate sheet: Select a size that covers your tank, with a bit of extra for trimming.
- Tape measure: To get accurate dimensions of your tank.
- Marker: For marking the sheet.
- Utility knife or circular saw: For cutting the polycarbonate sheet.
- Sandpaper or deburring tool: To smooth the edges.
- Hinges (optional): For hinged covers.
- Drill and bits (optional): To install hinges or create openings for equipment.
- Handles or pull-tabs (optional): For easy lifting.
Steps
-
Measure the Tank: Measure the length and width of your tank. Add a bit of extra space to ensure the cover fits over the edges.
-
Cut the Polycarbonate Sheet: Mark the polycarbonate sheet with a marker based on the measurements. Use a utility knife for thinner sheets or a circular saw for thicker sheets to cut along the marked lines.
-
Smooth the Edges: After cutting, use sandpaper or a deburring tool to smooth the edges. This prevents injury and ensures a neat finish.
-
Create Openings for Equipment (if needed): If you need openings for filters, heaters, or cords, mark the areas on the polycarbonate sheet and use a drill to create holes or a utility knife to cut sections.
-
Install Hinges (optional): For a hinged cover, attach small hinges to one edge of the polycarbonate sheet. Drill holes and use screws to secure them in place.
-
Attach Handles or Pull-tabs (optional): If you need easy access to the tank, attach handles or pull-tabs. This can be done using screws or adhesive depending on the handle type.
-
Place the Cover on the Tank: Position the cut and smoothed polycarbonate sheet over the tank. Ensure it fits well and adjust if necessary.
Here is link to order the material from amazon for 5 Pieces 4' x 2' which is more material than you get from the 4 x 8 sheets at the big box stores and its delivered to your house.