Resealing a tank

[Zak03]

hey guys, so I have to reseal a couple tanks. And I read many times that you have to let the silicone sit for 2 days before adding water. But, the silicone I bought, Aquascape clear silicone, says, “allow silicone to dry for 30 minutes before allowing contact with water”. I’m just interested, do I have to wait the full 48 hrs even if the company says I only have to wait for about 30 min?

 

[Fat Homer]

I would wait as long as possible (up to week) personally...

Coz the surface of the silicone maybe dry, but the center areas may not have fully cured...

 

[tlindsey]

I would wait as long as possible (up to week) personally...

Coz the surface of the silicone maybe dry, but the center areas may not have fully cured...

+1

 

[BIG-G]

I think what they mean is if you are repairing a water feature or a filter/skimmers for ponds and such to allow 30 min dry time before turning the water back on. “Water contact “
For real sealing an aquarium you need to allow the silicone to fully cure because you need the full strength of the bond to hold the aquarium.
I would wait a minimum of three days but usually give it a week before adding water.

 

[Zak03]

I think what they mean is if you are repairing a water feature or a filter/skimmers for ponds and such to allow 30 min dry time before turning the water back on. “Water contact “
For real sealing an aquarium you need to allow the silicone to fully cure because you need the full strength of the bond to hold the aquarium.
I would wait a minimum of three days but usually give it a week before adding water.

Ok. That makes sense. Thank you

 

[BIG-G]

Ok. That makes sense. Thank you

You’re welcome. Good luck with the project.

 

[SandNukka15]

I agree wait at least 1 week. Personally I'd wait longer. When the stench of silicone is pretty much gone. Not something that should be rushed by any means