Screen vs. glass top vs. something else.

[Pip Tazo]

Any suggestions or alternatives?

I get such nice shimmer and brightness when I leave the covers off, but I am so paranoid of fish jumping!

I have glass tops, but they quickly collect condensation and salt creep. it takes away a lot of the shimmer and brightness.

I recently tried using a DIY window screen from the hardware store, but it reduces the brightness quite a bit. However it doesn't take away the shimmer as much as the clouded up glass.

anything helps!

thanks!

 

[Scooterman]

You can try that lighting cover for long fluorescents, it looks like white plastic grating. It is too tight as is so you cut out the squares to open it up some and let in more lighting. It worked well for me in the past. You can find it in places as Lowes, HD etc. in the lighting section.

 

[Blue Lip]

Bird netting from Lowe's or Home Depot.

 

[mfinn]

I would use the clear netting material.

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/clear-netting-1.html

 

[fall0n]

That's what I used (mfinn's link) and have no issues. It has big enough holes that it doesn't block much light at all.

 

[gREEF Stricken]

Thx for that link. Been wondering on. This same issue.

GS

 

[Blue Lip]

I believe Bulk Reef Supply sells a kit with clear netting and a support frame.

 

[N1Husker]

I built a 10" high hood and left the top open except for the bracing and my lights that lay on top. My lights are 48" long strips so there is plenty of open area for air circulation.

 

[1guydude]

+1 a nice canopy or hood is best imo. Most people going with the rimless look now days so best bet is to use a screen door frame from home depot or Lowes or watever. Hths
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