DIY plywood hood for 6G mini tank (WITH PICS)

[AquaBANG]

Hi all,

I just built a plywood based hood for my 6G tank - foot print - 18'' x 9''

the hood is made of water resistant 3/8'' plywood and has a height of 6 3/8''

this is front view of the hood, the lide opens upwards. there are two notches in the rear panel for the wires and pipes.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2017/2442368436_b308a5fd8d_b.jpg

top view
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2220/2442371696_56521c3180_b.jpg

front view with the front panel closed. This will be how it will sit on the tank.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2113/2441546133_196ab9108b_b.jpg

rear view displaying the notches.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3063/2441549607_d4200e8a79_b.jpg

[AquaBANG]

inside view
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3289/2441552669_8b4e2c56cf_b.jpg

[AquaBANG]

Hi all,

I need ideas on how to finish the hood. I have decided to use paint, black for the exterior and white for the interior. I need details on steps to follow to perform the finishing like sanding, putty application, smoothening etc. also info required on primer coats and paint coats.

TIA
Sudhir.

[Drumachine09]

Sand, prime, sand, paint, clear coat, sand, clear coat.


Looks good BTW.

[Lady Hobbs]

You sure are a handy guy with a hammer and a saw. Nice work.

[AquaBANG]

Sand, prime, sand, paint, clear coat, sand, clear coat.


Looks good BTW.
thats a good list. thanks buddy.
whats the difference between paint and clear coat?
also if possible are there any links for the process?

[AquaBANG]

You sure are a handy guy with a hammer and a saw. Nice work.
thanks Hobbs. Im flattered...
Just that I observed my carpenter doing the hood for my main tank and I decided I will have a try for my mini tank :)

[MelonMan]

clear coat i think is like a protective coating and gives the paint a bit of shine. i agree a very handy man lol

[Wild Turkey]

thats a good list. thanks buddy.
whats the difference between paint and clear coat?
also if possible are there any links for the process?

The clear coat traps the paint in and moisture out. Also gives it kind of a shine that looks less dull. Looks great, im gonna have to rig up something for my little 2.5g soon, way too much water evaporates out of there

[jbeining75]

Paint is paint and clearcoat is a protective sealant that will cover the paint. You can use a clear coat epoxy to lock the paint in so you don't have to worry about contaminating the tank..

Looks good though...!!!!!!:19:

[AquaBANG]

thanks guys for your tips and suggestions, will follow like wise and update the post with my pics.

[AquaBANG]

update:: sanded with 80 grit paper followed by application of sanding sealer. Now it is left to dry.