Tank Cover Reef Safe?

[Baby Ray]

I am building a DIY tank cover using a window screen as the rim part and I got some 1/4 inch clear mesh. The only window framing they had at Lowe's was aluminum. Is it safe for the tank? It won't be in the water but I thought I should ask :)
Thanks

 

[jsker]

Yes

 

[Cory]

The frame will be ok, but not optimal. Dont let salt creep fall off it and into the water.

Dont use aluminum screen, just fiberglass.

Fwiw this will block a lot of light. Brs sells a good one.

 

[Baby Ray]

The frame will be ok, but not optimal. Dont let salt creep fall off it and into the water.

Dont use aluminum screen, just fiberglass.

Fwiw this will block a lot of light. Brs sells a good one.

The aluminum is just the rim of the lid. The middle part is the 1/4 inch brs clear mesh.

 

[Baby Ray]

Would plastic work better?

 

[Cory]

Okay, that setup sounds good. Plastic is the safer option yes, but aluminium isnt really all that bad anyway. But if your like me, it will always be a doubt in your mind.

 

[Baby Ray]

Okay, that setup sounds good. Plastic is the safer option yes, but aluminium isnt really all that bad anyway. But if your like me, it will always be a doubt in your mind.

Thanks. I am like you :)
I'll see if I can find any plastic ones around me soon.

 

[jsker]

If really want to do it up right, just use the egg crate light shealds and cut them in what ever shape you need.

 

[cmcoker]

If really want to do it up right, just use the egg crate light shealds and cut them in what ever shape you need.

Those block quite a bit of light...

 

[Baby Ray]

Those block quite a bit of light...

That's what I was thinking. I got the brs mesh so no light would be blocked.

 

[JPergamo]

The brs kit is great, I have 3 sections of it on my 180

 

[jsker]

Those block quite a bit of light...

The egg crate cover were designed for light covers for the reason, the covers let more light through the the lens covers. I would say the screen would block more light with a smaller wave then the large 1/2 squares. I have seen both used on tanks and they both work. just a thought though

 

[saltyphish]

those clearview lids one of the forums supporters are really nice looking, pricey but very functional and reef safe. But you can use the aluminum frame with the brs screen safely. I painted my frame black so maybe that will decrease concerns of contamination.

 

[Baby Ray]

those clearview lids one of the forums supporters are really nice looking, pricey but very functional and reef safe. But you can use the aluminum frame with the brs screen safely. I painted my frame black so maybe that will decrease concerns of contamination.

I am painting mine lack too with Rustolian
Do you think I could get away with it after I painted it?

 

[Waters]

The egg crate cover were designed for light covers for the reason, the covers let more light through the the lens covers. I would say the screen would block more light with a smaller wave then the large 1/2 squares. I have seen both used on tanks and they both work. just a thought though

They do unfortunately block a light....that is what they are sold for...to diffuse light. The clear BRS mesh is a much better option but if you are just looking to keep fish in, then either would work :-)

 

[jsker]

They do unfortunately block a light....that is what they are sold for...to diffuse light. The clear BRS mesh is a much better option but if you are just looking to keep fish in, then either would work :)

good to know:)

 

[cmcoker]

They do unfortunately block a light....that is what they are sold for...to diffuse light. The clear BRS mesh is a much better option but if you are just looking to keep fish in, then either would work :-)

Yep, also the egg crate holes are larger enough that many fish can still fit through. If the head fits the fish fits.

I use these on my qt tanks, with 1/4in mesh zipped tied on to the bottom. They are easier to cut around hob equipment

 

[Baby Ray]

Well, I got a cover built but I won't do. The light sits on top of it so I have to take the light off every time I want to feed the fish or to maintenance. Also it is very wobbly and sits weird on the tank. :(
Any other suggestions?

 

[Baby Ray]

those clearview lids one of the forums supporters are really nice looking, pricey but very functional and reef safe. But you can use the aluminum frame with the brs screen safely. I painted my frame black so maybe that will decrease concerns of contamination.

I want the clearview but I can't afford to spend that much money on a lid :)

 

[cmcoker]

My screens were a bit cattywampus when I first put them on, it was from the screen being stretched tight, they have since relaxed a bit and are flat. What kind of lights?

Well, I got a cover built but I won't do. The light sits on top of it so I have to take the light off every time I want to feed the fish or to maintenance. Also it is very wobbly and sits weird on the tank. :(
Any other suggestions?