Glaive
09-18-2005, 03:16 AM
This is a pretty simple project; it just takes time and patience.
Tools and supplies:
*Razorblades
*White vinegar
*Paper towels
*Painters tape
*GE "Doors and Windows" type I silicone not mildew resistant
Directions:
Step 1:
Take notice of how much the current seal overlaps the glass.
Step 2:
Use the razor blade to strip the silicone seams out of the aquarium. It is important that you get as much out as possible, however do not press so hard as to etch the glass. This works best if one keeps the blade at a good angle, 45 degrees works well for me. At this point I would suggest vacuuming the tank with an upholstery attachment.
Step 3:
Pour about a 1/2 cup of vinegar into the aquarium. Grab a few paper towels and begin wiping down all surfaces inside the aquarium, taking care not to push too hard because the seams will be much weaker at this time. It is especially important to clean the seam area as to ensure a good clean seal. Once done make sure to clean up the vinegar and allow ample drying time, 15 minutes should work.
Step 4:
Carefully tape off desired outer edge of seams, do all of the seams up front to ensure uniform seams. Make sure fold over a tab for easy tape removal.
Step 5:
Wet a paper towel with vinegar you will need this later, feel free to be liberal. Cut tube end to desired bead thickness and begin applying silicone. Try to apply as evenly as possible. Start with the bottom seams first for practice, these are the least noticeable. Once to have run the length of a seam, ease the pressure off of the gun and set it down. You'll want the vinegar soaked paper towel in your off hand about now. Using your index finger smooth out the silicone bead uniformly, making sure to press the silicone into the joint. At times feel free to clean your finger of excess silicone with the paper towel. When you have finished the seam make sure to remove the painter's tape guides. Repeat this process for all seams.
Step 6:
Upon completion of silicone application allow 12 hours for the silicone to cure and an additional 24 hours minimum for it to "gas off".
Step 7:
Check for excess globs of dried silicone anywhere they are not desired and remove with a razor blade. At this point I would suggest vacuuming the tank with an upholstery attachment.
Step 8:
Rinse out and leak test the tank for 24 hours.
Tools and supplies:
*Razorblades
*White vinegar
*Paper towels
*Painters tape
*GE "Doors and Windows" type I silicone not mildew resistant
Directions:
Step 1:
Take notice of how much the current seal overlaps the glass.
Step 2:
Use the razor blade to strip the silicone seams out of the aquarium. It is important that you get as much out as possible, however do not press so hard as to etch the glass. This works best if one keeps the blade at a good angle, 45 degrees works well for me. At this point I would suggest vacuuming the tank with an upholstery attachment.
Step 3:
Pour about a 1/2 cup of vinegar into the aquarium. Grab a few paper towels and begin wiping down all surfaces inside the aquarium, taking care not to push too hard because the seams will be much weaker at this time. It is especially important to clean the seam area as to ensure a good clean seal. Once done make sure to clean up the vinegar and allow ample drying time, 15 minutes should work.
Step 4:
Carefully tape off desired outer edge of seams, do all of the seams up front to ensure uniform seams. Make sure fold over a tab for easy tape removal.
Step 5:
Wet a paper towel with vinegar you will need this later, feel free to be liberal. Cut tube end to desired bead thickness and begin applying silicone. Try to apply as evenly as possible. Start with the bottom seams first for practice, these are the least noticeable. Once to have run the length of a seam, ease the pressure off of the gun and set it down. You'll want the vinegar soaked paper towel in your off hand about now. Using your index finger smooth out the silicone bead uniformly, making sure to press the silicone into the joint. At times feel free to clean your finger of excess silicone with the paper towel. When you have finished the seam make sure to remove the painter's tape guides. Repeat this process for all seams.
Step 6:
Upon completion of silicone application allow 12 hours for the silicone to cure and an additional 24 hours minimum for it to "gas off".
Step 7:
Check for excess globs of dried silicone anywhere they are not desired and remove with a razor blade. At this point I would suggest vacuuming the tank with an upholstery attachment.
Step 8:
Rinse out and leak test the tank for 24 hours.