DIY screen lids? Share yours or a link!

[ajremington68]

I have been doing research and I know going to Home Depot or Lowe's and getting the screen repair kit is the best and cheapest option. however what mesh size should I look for, what color, and what is the best to not block PAR? Also, what are we using to hold the screen in the square to make the lid? I have a 180 and on other tanks, I have had glass lids and HATE cleaning them, I also want to try something new this go around. is there a certain border to buy that won't rust? are there plastic options? which of the types holds up best?

 

[exnisstech]

Aluminum frame kit and 1/4 in plastic mesh. You do not want to use window screen. It will block light an get covered in dust /dirt over time. I made some for my 180 but wasn't really happy with the look and ended up open top but I don't keep fish that are known to jump.

 

[ajremington68]

Aluminum frame kit and 1/4 in plastic mesh. You do not want to use window screen. It will block light an get covered in dust /dirt over time. I made some for my 180 but wasn't really happy with the look and ended up open top but I don't keep fish that are known to jump.

alumnium frame kit is all bueno to unbox and put on or do you have to paint over it and cure it?

 

[Gumbies R Us]

Used a DIY screen door kit. Cut it down to size with a hacksaw.

 

[ajremington68]

Used a DIY screen door kit. Cut it down to size with a hacksaw.

what type of frame? Has it held up well over time? Also any insight on making the screen perfect fist tyme and not like all twisted looking?

 

[Gumbies R Us]

Here’s what it looks like. I don’t remember the exact brand of it, just some basic one I got at Home Depot. I’ve had it for around a year now with no issues.

 

[exnisstech]

BRS sells the 1/4 mesh and kits with everything or you can buy the frame kit at lowes, homedepot etc. depending on what openings you need you may have to buy pieces to work around those.