Need help with a large tank build

[Lerios80]

Hi everyone, my cousin recently remodeled his basement with installing a new large tank in mind. I recommended glasscages but that is over his budget. He is looking for a tank that is 96" x 24" x 24". I've been looking for a while around various forums with no luck so I recommended me and him try and build it to save some money considering he works in construction and can get the glass cheaper.
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The thing I need help with is where i can find plans or someone who knows how make plans for a tank like that and any advice in general with a tank build like this. Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
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[JimmyR1rider]

Well I do know that construction of a large tank is NOT the place to decide to try it on your own in my eyes.

Has he tried coast to coast in Jersey? If he cant afford to buy a tank that size- he most likely will not be able to maintain and operate it then- The tanks the cheap part the lighting, filtration, live rock, skimmer is the expensive part, especially in a big tank, and livestock afterwards runs apretty penny or 2 as well. Good luck with it and hope he makes out ok.

 

[Widdy]

If Glasscages is over his budget, there's no way C2C will be a viable option.

 

[JimmyR1rider]

I figured but maybe he needs multiple quotes to realize the level of expense hes tryin to get into.

 

[kaOzGrUnT]

If you need a hand

I don't know anything on building a tank, but I'll help.

 

[ming]

Like Jimmy said, I suggest going with a smaller tank since its out of his budget.
I would prefer a smaller tank well maintained and well stocked, then a large tank poorly equipped and looking empty.

 

[nycdominicanreef]

the tank is the cheapest part of the hobby, i got a 75 gal tank and stand $100, OZoneparkguy got his 120 for $120. If he cant afford the tank he's gonna have a hard time with rock and skimmer.. just my .02

 

[jaa1456]

Those are very close to the dimensions of a 265. What is his tank budget? I mean they sell them for around 2 grand new with the stand and canopy near me. I'm sure a custom tank build will be just as close in price as the whole set up new.

 

[lfsmarineguy]

Is he doing salt or fresh? If he is in construction you could always attempt a wood and fiberglass tank. It's FAR cheaper if you know what you are doing. there are plenty of places to find plans for them online.

 

[Imbarrie]

Have they decided about glass or acrylic yet?

 

[Ryanr1212]

well sounds like its going to be an exciting build!!

 

[JavyJaverson]

i would def keep looking around in the forums for used tanks.

 

[lemonyx]

About a 230gal tank, you'll need at least 3/4" thick acrylic or even 1" thick but 3/4" minimum. Retail 3/4" runs about $800 + per sheet and he's gonna to need 2 1/2 sheets.

good luck

 

[nycdominicanreef]

best bet is craigslist and the forums

 

[Dre]

If your cousin is in construction you guys should be able to build it out of blocks, concrete, and rebar ,use glass for the front panel.

 

[Tim]

I have a used 84x30x30 for sale w a stand pm me for details. It is 325 gallons.