How to resilicone a tank.

[Northernguy]

Many have been asking how to seal a tank so I thought I would write a short article about it with pics! I was given a 20 gal a few weeks ago but couldn't set it up because the silicone in the corners had a bit of mold and it was beginning to peel.
I first cleaned it out really well inside and out.It had a lot of crusty build up on the top rim and on the glass.I first washed it out with a bleach and water mix and rinsed it out a few times.I used vinager soaked paper towel over the white crusty build up for a few hours. With an algae scrubber I started to come off,I used a razor blade to remove the rest and rinsed it clean.
Now that the tank is clean and dry I started to remove the silicone.I find it much easier to work on a clean tank.
With a flat edge razor and a utility knife I cut out the silicone.Be careful not to scratch the glass.There is less chance of scratching the surface if you dampen the corners first with a damp cloth for a bit lubrication.Just use water.
Be careful not to cut into the seam between the panels,thats whole other silcone job! lol I like the knife as a corner tool.Clean out all silicone debris from tank.I used a vacuum and the some alcohol to wipe down the corners with.