Any other "option" for a rimless tank - other than a net/mesh, etc. top...?

[salty150]

OK...

We spend $4,000 +/- on a rimless tank (6 foot Red Sea Reefer for example)...

The reason the tank looks so good is because it is rimless and doesn't have any crossbars...

So, now we find out that we need to have a top on this rimless tank because fish will jump out otherwise (yes, all fish when frightened will jump, etc...)

So, now we have to go get some... net/mesh, etc. type top - most of which have crossbars in it.

Even if you can find one without crossbars - it still looks not as nice.

Completely negating the beauty of the rimless tank!

Anyone using glass / plexiglass / acrylic - of some sort?

 

[Cwentz758]

I know there are some nice custom top makers. I’m sure some will name. Others I think take the risk of jumpers...I’m in debate on what I’ll do when I order my rimless

 

[JoshH]

It's really hard to throw a lid on something that's rimless, whether it be plexiglass or glass as neither one will last long. The mesh tops are really the best option and there a couple minimalist manufacturers out there. You could go with a multi piece mesh lid which will cut down on the width of the material needed for support therefor making it less of an eyesore...

Myself, I just chose a very nice Eurobrace design instead of going rimless. A mesh top on this will be even less noticeable and an issue....

 

[salty150]

I kind of like this idea...

"Glass" top with what looks like 1" opening on the front and back....?

Would that be enough for gas exchange?

 

[JoshH]

I kine of like this idea...

"Glass" top with what looks like 1" opening on the front and back....?

Would that be enough for gas exchange?

It would be, however a fish would be able to get through that front gap and the Algae growth on it would be an absolute nightmare to deal with

 

[Seffner]

I saw this in another thread: https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/screens-for-rimless-tanks.218094/post-2508360

There is also this that caught my eye a few weeks ago. I haven't read anything more than what's on their site, but I thought the screen looked pretty good. https://www.clearviewlids.com/

When I searched for threads here on R2R, there's an ongoing comparison between the clearviewlids and octolid... https://octoaquatics.com/product/octo-lids/

 

[salty150]

I saw this in another thread: https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/screens-for-rimless-tanks.218094/post-2508360

There is also this that caught my eye a few weeks ago. I haven't read anything more than what's on their site, but I thought the screen looked pretty good. https://www.clearviewlids.com/

When I searched for threads here on R2R, there's an ongoing comparison between the clearviewlids and octolid... https://octoaquatics.com/product/octo-lids/

Thanks!

 

[TheKylersFire]

I have a clearview lid on my Red Sea peninsula. I shopped every available option cause I thought the same as you.

The clearview is really good. Perfect no but durable and when I sit on my couch next to the tank I don’t see it. It’s all clear plastic so it’s not super noticeable and is the best I found.

The problem with any glass is the evaporation and condensation that is constantly on it will have a huge effect on your lighting. It also leaves small gaps for fish and trust me they will find it (I tried lol)

If anyone finds a better solution I would love to hear it but clearview was the best I have found. I take it off once a month and hose it down and it stays clean

 

[vetteguy53081]

One tank i use glass and other- screen

 

[Tastee]

I have Clearview lids on my RSR 250 and now my new RSR 525XL. I have stuck with the classic lid as I like the minimalist look.

 

[salty150]

I have Clearview lids on my RSR 250 and now my new RSR 525XL. I have stuck with the classic lid as I like the minimalist look.

How does it look straight on...?

Noticeable...?

 

[Arabyps]

I purchased ClearView Lids Tsunami for my rimless Waterbox peninsula. Virtually disappears so as not to interfere with the rimless aesthetic. They will make a custom fit if not already in their inventory. They have most Waterbox and Red Sea schematics pre-programmed.

 

[Tastee]

How does it look straight on...?

Noticeable...?

As per prior post it is very clean. Here are a few photos of my 2yo top on the 250 and the new top on the 525.

 

[GlassMunky]

SafeTop Lids is who I got mine from
But artfully acrylic and Octo lids are other options. Basically all 3 are very similar in design

 

[Han]

I have a couple rimless tanks, one has a clearview (artfully acrylic) mesh lid and the other has a custom glass lid. I like them both, I don’t think the glass lid causes problems with oxygen exchange or light penetration as many people suggest. Here’s a picture of the glass lid when I first got it. It drastically cuts down on evaporation compared to a mesh lid.

 

[blasterman]

These big rimless tank owners with lots of fish likely dont have to feed their cats much if you know what I mean.

The reduced evap alone is worth it.

 

[Lostreefin]

I went with Clearview on my RSR, it was after much conflict and a loss, any fish can be a jumper. I am with the 1st guy on the thread, on my next tank I will get eurobracing, bigger tank will need it, not as much splashing, and more protection from jumping where you need it. I've lost the beauty of rimless because of the lid, and I have one of the nicest custom lids out there in my opinion.

 

[MSCMMSHEEPDOG]

I have a couple rimless tanks, one has a clearview (artfully acrylic) mesh lid and the other has a custom glass lid. I like them both, I don’t think the glass lid causes problems with oxygen exchange or light penetration as many people suggest. Here’s a picture of the glass lid when I first got it. It drastically cuts down on evaporation compared to a mesh lid.

I am looking at the Pisces EXO lid from Clearview with the inserts. When I called I was told that I should expect about 85% reduction in evaporation. For those who have this or a similar lid could you tell me if you are achieving similar results. This lid is a bit pricy but would certainly be worth it if it reduces that much evaporation. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[MSCMMSHEEPDOG]

Hello,
I am looking at the Pisces EXO lid from Clearview with the inserts. When I called I was told that I should expect about 85% reduction in evaporation. For those who have this or a similar lid could you tell me if you are achieving similar results. This lid is a bit pricy but would certainly be worth it if it reduces that much evaporation. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.