HOW TO: Build a plywood aquarium | Part 1 | Building the tank TUTORIAL

Get the ultimate DIY book ► http://thekingofdiy.com Follow me ► http://facebook.com/uarujoey How to build a plywood aquarium. Sounds fishy right? Building a wooden tank? Have no fear... I will show you how to build a plywood aquarium, while keeping it affordable, simple, LOOK GREAT and what i like to call: Bullet proof. This is part 1 of a 6 part build. In this video I show you how I built the tank itself. The shell of the tank came first. Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dS6AJL3CAt0

HOW TO: Build a plywood aquarium | Part 1 | Building the tank TUTORIAL sentiment_very_dissatisfied 162

Pets & Animals 8 years ago 661,749 views

Get the ultimate DIY book ► http://thekingofdiy.com Follow me ► http://facebook.com/uarujoey How to build a plywood aquarium. Sounds fishy right? Building a wooden tank? Have no fear... I will show you how to build a plywood aquarium, while keeping it affordable, simple, LOOK GREAT and what i like to call: Bullet proof. This is part 1 of a 6 part build. In this video I show you how I built the tank itself. The shell of the tank came first. Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dS6AJL3CAt0

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Most popular comments
for HOW TO: Build a plywood aquarium | Part 1 | Building the tank TUTORIAL

Patrick DeCicco
Patrick DeCicco - 6 years ago
AWSOME
marcusarilus187
marcusarilus187 - 6 years ago
About how tall would you think this could be if you wanted to go without braces? 24 inches? Also do you think you could get away with using thinner ply, like 3/8, or half inch?
bigo live - Tube
bigo live - Tube - 6 years ago
ok
Sophia Cunningham
Sophia Cunningham - 6 years ago
more working less talking dude
Greg Cxox
Greg Cxox - 6 years ago
Did your wife hit you for getting glue all over the floor
Dave
Dave - 6 years ago
got glue all over your pants i see XD
Jonathan Lavigne
Jonathan Lavigne - 6 years ago
so do i have to use this expensive plywood or can i be a cheap ass and get regular plywood and line the inside with something not ugly.
Ashton Mccants
Ashton Mccants - 6 years ago
Jonathan Lavigne you can use regular plywood, it just requires a lot more sanding and work
Andrew Henderson
Andrew Henderson - 6 years ago
You my man are a legend!!!.....my misses on the other hand maaaaay not think so when i start to build mine
Emilio Ruiz
Emilio Ruiz - 6 years ago
Are any of the plywood tanks for salt water? If so have you had any issues with with saltwater and plywood?
Ashton Mccants
Ashton Mccants - 6 years ago
Emilio Ruiz they can be used for both fresh and salt

10. comment for HOW TO: Build a plywood aquarium | Part 1 | Building the tank TUTORIAL

FishKeeper123
FishKeeper123 - 6 years ago
how much did this aquarium cost cant find a cheap price for a big tank
mackenzie carullo
mackenzie carullo - 6 years ago
Love the video quality and transitions very very helpful starting to buy supplies for my own!!! Thank you for the Hard work and including measurements sooooo damn helpful
John Gaines Watts
John Gaines Watts - 6 years ago
Lol the screws everywhere have me weak
Jesus Jimenez
Jesus Jimenez - 6 years ago
He makes it seem so easy
Minecraft and roblox Jacob
Minecraft and roblox Jacob - 6 years ago
Hi
CFM Gaming
CFM Gaming - 6 years ago
Roughly how lomg do you expect this tank to last ?
Tyler Leon
Tyler Leon - 6 years ago
how did you make/cut your viewing panel?
Parker Grainey
Parker Grainey - 6 years ago
If u wet a rag and go over the wood glue while the wood glue is still wet the glue will wipe right of.
jakes Buchanan
jakes Buchanan - 6 years ago
i cannot wait to start my own 300+ tankthanks joey
RoxyQueen
RoxyQueen - 6 years ago
you should make and sell kits!!!

20. comment for HOW TO: Build a plywood aquarium | Part 1 | Building the tank TUTORIAL

Gerard Gonzalez
Gerard Gonzalez - 6 years ago
Joey I'm trying to build a wall divider fish tank utilizing your plans for  a plywood tank can there be viewing panels on both sides and still be structurally safe?
Edward A
Edward A - 6 years ago
GR8 Aquarium, and when you die you can use it as your Casket
SettOfTheBrightSky
SettOfTheBrightSky - 6 years ago
I'm not a good buildy person but I'm tempted to get my grandpa to cut wood to size and give me a hand with a build!!
Tony Basso
Tony Basso - 6 years ago
How do you know what size you need for your tank? And how did you come up with 370 gallons?
Ashton Mccants
Ashton Mccants - 6 years ago
Tony Basso there are aquarium calculators our there. MFK has one on their website. Just punch in your dimensions and it will give you your estimated gallons or liters. Whatever you prefer.
das Dilemma
das Dilemma - 6 years ago
does it fit through your door? what would you do if you had to move to another place?
Kelly
Kelly - 6 years ago
Wheelchair G probably put it in sideways
Patrick Dyer
Patrick Dyer - 6 years ago
quality vids like these are the reason joey got so much money to help his aquarium outdoor build! Incredible
I Phone
I Phone - 6 years ago
Am building a 5x2x2 for my uromastyx but will just be having 4-5 inches of sand at bottom so should not need all that bracing
chuckschilling
chuckschilling - 6 years ago
Joey, are all of the plywood joints butt joints?
Gabe Fisher
Gabe Fisher - 6 years ago
*and
Gabe Fisher
Gabe Fisher - 6 years ago
I'm extremely allergic to birch wood ad hazelnuts

30. comment for HOW TO: Build a plywood aquarium | Part 1 | Building the tank TUTORIAL

Andrew
Andrew - 7 years ago
In the Pond Armor video, they instruct usage of horizontally oriented ribs to provide the best structural support and keep from bowing. what is your take?
Brian Hunt
Brian Hunt - 7 years ago
so i have a 50gl tank i believe sitting around but if i tripple the size will the glass hold up to the water weight
sam luu
sam luu - 7 years ago
Hey Joey, I want to build a 8x3x30" plywood the same style you did yours. Would the extra 2 ft length create any bowing issues? Also, can I use the same wood thickness as your build or would I have to build a 2x4 frame for the tank?
Trogdorrr
Trogdorrr - 7 years ago
Can this method be used to make a 96 inch x 36 inch x 36 inch?
Dragon
Dragon - 7 years ago
do you know how to build one for pvc maria carery
Sarbarz
Sarbarz - 7 years ago
can you give me music background link ! thanks
NunchuckDuck
NunchuckDuck - 7 years ago
I want to know how much would a 65 gallon plywood aquarium cost? I want to DIY, but after researching a bit, it seems that the advantage of the cost savings decrease with tank size.
BlakeYoBruh
BlakeYoBruh - 7 years ago
When I heard "four pieces of this stuff was only $250" I was like NOPE
Jonathan Lavigne
Jonathan Lavigne - 6 years ago
considering the size of the tank you build this could be really cheap.
brad schultz
brad schultz - 7 years ago
awesome set of videos, Im looking at building a large vivarium for a Chinese Water Dragon and find myself viewing this video a lot. my enclosure will easily double this size but wont need near the amount of bracing because it isnt holding water like an aquarium would but will have a 33 gallon pool on the bottom for swimming so for moisture I am definitely using pond shield, the pool will have an external aquarium filter cycling water for freshness though, thinking of using concrete for background/pool with a waterfall but not sure just yet, just have to get the box built and sliding glass panels for the front door. Great job btw! you have already given me many ideas as to starting this project!
Tomia MacQueen
Tomia MacQueen - 7 years ago
HI Joey! I'm thinking of doing this but I'd like to stain the wood. Are there any differences to the project (besides the added cost of the wood) if I do this with say Maple so that the stain brings out a nice wood grain? Also can I put a mirror on the back panel after the epoxy to reflect the fish or would that drive them nuts? I'm doing a 72"L×18"W×24" H as a surprise birthday gift :-)
Blessed Aquatics
Blessed Aquatics - 7 years ago
Just a tip from a person who is doing this build. I am following his build as much as possible. A pro tip is DO NOT let the wood glue sit. Sanding is extremely difficult around the seams. When glue is wet wipe away. Sanding is extremely difficult.
randy houk
randy houk - 7 years ago
If I wanted a list of all the measurements of boards, would you send them to me???
funkyzeite
funkyzeite - 7 years ago
can one also use mdf instead of plywood?
Arbear64
Arbear64 - 7 years ago
I guess if the fish thing fails, he can always bury someone in it. LOL
that guy stone
that guy stone - 7 years ago
So you said it is only cost effective when you start to get upwards of 300 galWhat would the price point look like if it were maybe 50 gallons? Everything in that gallon range for even the worst grade of tabknis still a couple hundred bucks.
Joe
Joe - 7 years ago
I'm setting up a 75 gallon tank do I need a a center support in the back of the tank I have a center support in the front of the tank I wasn't sure if I had to have one on the back as I thought the course we're supporting the tank if anybody could answer that question I appreciate it or Joey I built my stand almost exactly the way you've built your plywood tank I just didn't put a support in the middle on the back side?
Ravid394
Ravid394 - 7 years ago
Hey Joey, thanks for all your great videos, the coating you put in, will it stand up to a turtles scratching? I have a large female red eared sliders, with long nails, and would really like to give her more swimming space, not too mention more privacy when she wants it. thanks for any advise
Hailey meh
Hailey meh - 7 years ago
If I skipped the water proofing step could I use this as a reptile cage?
Nikki B.
Nikki B. - 6 years ago
Hailey meh well... the reptiles will produce waste which could leach into the wood. So I'd at least do something to protect the bottom... you could probably make a snug fit liner though
Andrew Essman
Andrew Essman - 7 years ago
I know I'm late to comment but I think you should get some ghost knife fish
jay jenkins
jay jenkins - 7 years ago
I have a old 55 sitting around can I break it down. to make something bigger

50. comment for HOW TO: Build a plywood aquarium | Part 1 | Building the tank TUTORIAL

Bill Culnan
Bill Culnan - 7 years ago
looks good try it myself
Kevin Bowers
Kevin Bowers - 7 years ago
loved the video. very informative gonna have a go myself. could you make a sump with plywood too?
Natural Goliath
Natural Goliath - 7 years ago
Hey I was wondering what size plywood tank would you recommend build with a 7ft long 3ft tall and 1/2 inch thick glass plain
Cichlid-king
Cichlid-king - 7 years ago
Hi im building a 8x3x3 tank what size would my side panels have to be to match
Eduardo Flores
Eduardo Flores - 7 years ago
You're awesome I watch all your videos
Jonny Bravo
Jonny Bravo - 7 years ago
if you have to much glue sand it down later? why not just wipe it with a damp rag
Will G
Will G - 7 years ago
How much did it cost?
magepwnz
magepwnz - 7 years ago
what thickness of wood did you use for the bottom of the tank?
Please enter a nam
Please enter a nam - 7 years ago
My kitten got hit my a car and I'm watching your videos to cheer me up and it's working
Nck Smurf
Nck Smurf - 7 years ago
I want to do this for a reptile cage❤❤
William Carino
William Carino - 7 years ago
Instructions unclear. Glued aquarium to floor. What do?
Parry Don
Parry Don - 7 years ago
can i get the dimensions for the cuts of wood?
Kay Skywalker
Kay Skywalker - 7 years ago
I have a particle board aquarium for ten and a a half years with a 65 gallon on it. As long as it doesn't get too wet, it's fine.
Phat Nguyen
Phat Nguyen - 7 years ago
hey Joey, can i have the list of the materials please?
jason lachance
jason lachance - 7 years ago
how did you cut the center hole for the glass?
Bam Chug
Bam Chug - 7 years ago
Could you cut viewing holes on the sides?
Eden's Aquaponics
Eden's Aquaponics - 7 years ago
Did he cut a viewing hole in the front?
Joseph Carnes
Joseph Carnes - 7 years ago
Hey Joey, I tried reading through to see if it was listed in the notes, but didn't see it. I like this concept and want to use it to built a breeding rack. I was just wondering what is the longevity of the plywood tanks? I don't want to build something that big and only have it last a year or so. Also, how can I gauge the wide of the viewing windows? I plan on using plexiglass.
rich andy
rich andy - 7 years ago
Hi Joey. Would it make a difference if the plywood was exterior or not. Thank you. Rich
Mason Pyatt
Mason Pyatt - 7 years ago
Would I need a frame for a small 10 gallon tank?
Justin Fell
Justin Fell - 7 years ago
I cant wait to build one of these... UaruJoey you are the man!
PhatJay
PhatJay - 7 years ago
Great vid, what kind of clamps and screw brand/length did you use? Thanks.
Rhys Hughes
Rhys Hughes - 7 years ago
Would it be possible to make a tank out of MDF? With a good support system on the outside?
Dan Joyner
Dan Joyner - 7 years ago
Bob Villa of fish tanks! God bless you brother. I love all your tips & knowledge, one thing I would like to add is when you wipe the glue off when it's wet it is absolutely so much easier. Yes sanding off is one way to handle it but much more work. Also the glue rejects the stain, especially in the cracks. You never want to sand veneer to much.
otto leeverink
otto leeverink - 7 years ago
tip. you can wipe the exesive glue with a wet cloth remember not to throw the cloth on the floor wen the water dries the cloth wil be gluet to the floor and leave white stains
chickengamnig vlog
chickengamnig vlog - 7 years ago
its a big ass aquarim ever
McCoy87
McCoy87 - 7 years ago
Will a plywood aquarium work for reef tanks?
berny's reef
berny's reef - 7 years ago
Could you build this with an acrylic pannel instead of glass?

How much would a tank of the same dimensions cost to build exclusively out of acrylic?
Trevor Harris
Trevor Harris - 7 years ago
is it safe to house plecos with epoxy resin or will they eat through it. thanks
Shawn McKenzie
Shawn McKenzie - 7 years ago
+The king of DIY What is that black squaring tool called that your using at 4:30 on the top of the aquarium? Thanks so much for all your great tutorials!
Shawn McKenzie
Shawn McKenzie - 7 years ago
Nevermind, you mentioned it in part 4 lol! Thanks Again!
Ricky Spanish
Ricky Spanish - 7 years ago
my videos coming soon watch out for Ricky Spanish You tube
Ricky Spanish
Ricky Spanish - 7 years ago
Awesome idea. Im going to start building reptile enclosures for sale soon. Now my thought on all these wood tanks and enclosures is there is a little too much time and money put into trying to seal them water tight. Wouldn't just be easier to paint the wood with whatever color you wanted then box it all in with plexiglass and silicone with a piece of real glass for the front.
Bruce Wayne
Bruce Wayne - 7 years ago
could you post materials needed for this project? Thank you
Nightbird
Nightbird - 7 years ago
Guys in sweatpants and tshirts are hot! (◕‿-)
Noah Snell
Noah Snell - 7 years ago
Nightbird jmj
KandyMan
KandyMan - 7 years ago
love the music
ShortNanxious
ShortNanxious - 7 years ago
Love this Idea... do you have fish suggestions for plywood tanks? ...
I want to build three of these for 6 singletailed goldfish. 3 for inside and 3 for outside. So, any suggestions for making 3 of them for outside use?
snehasis pradhan
snehasis pradhan - 7 years ago
gud
Subita Dahal
Subita Dahal - 7 years ago
very nice method
Birdie Buris
Birdie Buris - 7 years ago
is there anyway i could get a list of material and tools that you use for this project??? thank you
Monkey D. Luffy
Monkey D. Luffy - 7 years ago
One suggestion I have is wiping the wood glue. Sanding is smooth tedious.
Terrisa M
Terrisa M - 7 years ago
14:20 ................69 inches ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
Terrisa M
Terrisa M - 7 years ago
..................could you use cider? I heard it was anti rot
Terrisa M
Terrisa M - 7 years ago
+Nick neet  
Nick
Nick - 7 years ago
Ceder lumber is, but PLY would make no difference except$$$$
Just seal it Very well!!
Sam Weatly
Sam Weatly - 7 years ago
That thing is built like a tank...
Maximilian
Maximilian - 7 years ago
Sam Weatly i get it
Nick Fiorentino
Nick Fiorentino - 7 years ago
what size screws were you using i know you said inch and a quarter but what diameter
Clayton Horne
Clayton Horne - 7 years ago
Click spring music
DAN Kirk
DAN Kirk - 7 years ago
Anyway you could get close captions for your videos please I'm hard of hearing and can't quite get everything your saying and love how you build things thank you for what you do well appreciated thanx again
Keli Weisgerber
Keli Weisgerber - 7 years ago
You can use woodprix instructions to build it yourself guys.
Irfancooking
Irfancooking - 7 years ago
Keli Weisgerber link?
Mod Thanatus
Mod Thanatus - 7 years ago
Joey, I have 2 panes of glass, 72in long, 5/8in thick, 29 2/8in high. Could you double the length/size of tank? So have a 144in long tank? If so how would you brace the 2 panes together?
Mod Thanatus
Mod Thanatus - 7 years ago
Nice! Thanks for the reply!
The king of DIY
The king of DIY - 7 years ago
+Mod Thanatus that would work! You will have to build an external brace around the whole tank with 2x4s on edge though. Separating the panes by 6" in the front middle with bracing as well. It's a bit more complicated, but it can be done!
Angel Hernandez
Angel Hernandez - 7 years ago
how much did it cosst just for the ply wood
Christopher Murphy
Christopher Murphy - 7 years ago
little bit more money. but you could have used birch hard wood 1x4 for the surround frame.
Nick
Nick - 7 years ago
The ply will be far more structural..
Christopher Murphy
Christopher Murphy - 7 years ago
i dont mean to be a jerk but its tapping not taping. like tap tap tap with an ing lol. just for future reference. really good video. im gunna build one for reptiles :)

100. comment for HOW TO: Build a plywood aquarium | Part 1 | Building the tank TUTORIAL

Jesse Maksymetz
Jesse Maksymetz - 7 years ago
Where do you find this pond armour I have looked everywhere

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