question on sealing a tank

[metalfab]

I have my 90g empty and cleaned ready to start planning my reef setup. My tank is 10 yrs. old and has never leaked a drop, but I noticed a few bubbles in the silicone inside the bottom beads. I feel it would pay to seal it now, I assume I have to strip the old silicone beads? I also read that I can use GE 100% silicone (food grade) so I can get some at local stores. Has anybody used this before? Seems to be a basic job, but if anyone has any heads up for me I would appreciate it. TIA Rich

 

[cilyjr]

when i resealed a 75 that was leaking pretty bad i removed all the silicone from the tank except the small sandwich between where the glass meets. get all off the sides then i just ran a new bead along all the seams. its been up and running as my sump for 3 years now. i would suggest buying the more expensive silocone from the aquarium store for a display however because the ge silicone is fine to use but it will yellow over time in the salt water.

 

[metalfab]

Thanks for the info, I def. dont want the silicone to yellow. Do LFS sell tubes for caulking guns, or do I need to order online? When you run a new bead do you smooth it with your finger or leave it heavy? The factory silicone looks pro, I hate to have it come out messy!

 

[cilyjr]

run blue painters tape on either side of the bead you want to run.
run the bead
wipe with finger
remove painters tape right away if you wait the silicone will solidify and it will make a mess to take it out

thats the easiest way to a factory looking seal

 

[metalfab]

Thanks Cilyjr , the corner beads came out mint. Only thing, I wish I taped the bottom beads even though they are hidden under sand and frame. Now it just has to hold water.

 

[cilyjr]

gald to have helped