View Full Version : Matt's Hole-in-the-wall
Well, Ive waited a long time to be able to start this thread.
This set-up has been long in waiting, has had many reasons to delay its start and more doubts about how it'll finally come together. But today I got a call from a builder I'll be employing soon, to give me a good idea of the starting date for some building work we're having done here. That date'll be next week it seems now.
Its this building work that'll also enable me to be able to build an additional outhouse, that'll house my new tank set-up, thus creating a 5'x5'x2' hole in the wall style reef, viewed from the new kitchen.
There's no doubt that seeing Tuan's tank in person encouraged me to attempt a project of this type.
I went about a year or so ago with Tramline, who was planning on buying one of Tuans BTAs, to see Tuan's set-up. I still remember standing in his office completely lost for words. It amazed me.
This post is intended to be a regular account of the progress of my new set-up from the drawings supplied by my architect, to footings being dug, concrete poured, brickwork and eventual installation of all and sundry regarding salt-water. It'll be photo-intensive, for which I purchased a new Fuji digital camera, cos I knew you'd all be asking.
So here are the first pics....
Next week there'll be some action shots, concrete mixers etc, but we all love following these set-ups, I know, from start to installation.
Below are the main drawings for the new extension where the area for viewing the tank will be, i.e. from in the kitchen looking to the left of the window. Its intended that there'll be a work surface, as indicated in the drawing, below the tank, but it isnt intended to be used, thats purely to help keep the area in keeping with the rest of the kitchen.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/extension%20plans.jpg
Below is the main area where the new extension is to be built.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/tank%20room%20area.jpg
The flat roof extension seen in this picture is coming down prior to completing the work.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/flat.jpg
In total 26' of extension is going back up PLUS the 10' or so for the tank room. Thats my wildlife pond there at the mo :lol: :lol: afterwards theres gonna be a koi pond, waterfall etc.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/2005_11020011%20%28600%20x%20400%29.jpg
Below is Kevin, the foreman
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/2005_11020013%20%28600%20x%20400%29.jpg
5x5x2.....5ft deep? that a mistake or is it that size?
T
ps- looks like a cool plan (pity about changing the garden with all that effort you've put into it ;))
Originally posted by Tiggsy@Nov 14 2005, 21:31
5x5x2.....5ft deep? that a mistake or is it that size?
T
ps- looks like a cool plan (pity about changing the garden with all that effort you've put into it ;))
Thats 5'Wx5'Bx2'D
:lol: :lol: :lol: a lot more effort going to go into this coming year
5061litres
14-11-05, 21:46
5'widex 5'front-back x 2' deep(top to base.
my next tank will be 8'x4'x30". it nice to have the front to back distance... imagine the rock formations u can have!!!
good luck matty.
tony.
Cheers Tony, thats what looked so good about Tuans tank, the sheer depth from front to back. Gives so much room for the fish, aquascaping etc.
Ill be like a kid in a sweet-shop :lol: :lol:
5061litres
14-11-05, 21:56
oh u will..
have u reckoned on how much rock ur gonna need??
have u done any designs for closed loops and the like? any equipment specs yet?
tony.
ooohhh this will be one to watch :wub: :wub:
and we all know your good for the updates. that will look amazing. have you looked at oregon-reef? by any chance. if not i suggest you do, you'll find his tank in the non-commercial fish related sites section of this board.
what are your proposed spec lists, stocking lists, plans etc etc, give us some more info :bow: :bow:
Great too see it all happening now Mate... :thumbsup: You’ve tidied up the wildlife park I see and the lawns have been cut for public show... :lol: :lol: :lol:
If you need Sketch-Up to help with tank, pipe work drawing...then just give us a shout... ;)
Mark... :)
You know you will regret not going 2'6" or even 3' deep. Martin lakin has a nice 5' x 4' x 2'deep tank and his biggest regret is that it is too shallow.
Good luck with the project, whatever depth you go for :D
Originally posted by 5061litres@Nov 14 2005, 21:56
oh u will..
have u reckoned on how much rock ur gonna need??
have u done any designs for closed loops and the like? any equipment specs yet?
tony.
Nope not really, a few ideas no decisions as of yet.
Closed loop circulation in addition to the 4 Streams. Looking to be moving about 50 times tank volume. Remote sump with DSB, caulerpa bed, low-light zone, possible rubble zone, I want to try to encourage as wide a diversity of life-forms as poss.
No wiers as such and dursos, something along the designs of Simons Reef-Eden overflows, straight down the back and into sump. Noise shouldnt be a prob, well, for the neighbours but not me !!
At least 4x250W MH, possibly 6 (giving a mix of Kelvin ratings, undecided as of yet, though some will be reasonably blue, probably 2x14K and 4x10K.
Deltec 703 from Tramline.
Calcium reactor in addition to kalk supplement.
Remote water change system, which can be isolated from the main tanks circulation to allow for emptying of waste water and mixing of salt which can then be slowly re-introduced to the system.
Stock is likely to be mainly SPS, acros, montis, hystrix.
Of course a tank of this nature always seems to benefit from its shoal of tangs, however which ones Im undecided, but Purple has always been the one of choice for me.
In additon, shoals of Anthias/Chromis....well, who knows.
Scoob I have taken a good long hard look at Oregon Reef, another tank with great depth from front to back. Another inspiration.
Cheers Matt
Originally posted by pavlo@Nov 14 2005, 22:11
You know you will regret not going 2'6" or even 3' deep. Martin lakin has a nice 5' x 4' x 2'deep tank and his biggest regret is that it is too shallow.
Good luck with the project, whatever depth you go for :D
I know Pavlo, to be honest that is one thing that isnt 100% decided, I still gotta talk to Danny about that again. He gave me a ball-park figure, but for what you get its a hell of a lot more $$$$
However, 5' from front to back and 2.5' deep, thats some dimensions, some water to move and also sone distance from the top back to the front bottom :lol: :lol: I was also more worried about being able to reach it, what if I dropped a fiver in there???
Ok, should I go 2.5' ??
Matt
Originally posted by TRAMLINE@Nov 14 2005, 22:08
Great too see it all happening now Mate... :thumbsup: You’ve tidied up the wildlife park I see and the lawns have been cut for public show... :lol: :lol: :lol:
If you need Sketch-Up to help with tank, pipe work drawing...then just give us a shout... ;)
Mark... :)
Sketch-up???
Get your bloody saw and pipe-glue over here :lol: :lol:
Go 2.5 it would look stunning... :wub:
MaidstoneMarine
14-11-05, 22:32
Been waiting a long time to see this - glad its finally here!
Would definitely go for 2'6'' but 3' if you can afford it! Cost finally stopped me going 3'' deep - almost trebled the cost of the tank to £1800 but that was starphire glass!
Looking forward to the progress - keep us informed.
Cheers
Chris
Originally posted by MaidstoneMarine@Nov 14 2005, 22:32
Been waiting a long time to see this - glad its finally here!
Would definitely go for 2'6'' but 3' if you can afford it! Cost finally stopped me going 3'' deep - almost trebled the cost of the tank to £1800 but that was starphire glass!
Looking forward to the progress - keep us informed.
Cheers
Chris
Who made your tank Chris in the end?
MaidstoneMarine
14-11-05, 23:14
Originally posted by xxmattyxx+Nov 14 2005, 22:39--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (xxmattyxx @ Nov 14 2005, 22:39)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'> <!--QuoteBegin-MaidstoneMarine@Nov 14 2005, 22:32
Been waiting a long time to see this - glad its finally here!
Would definitely go for 2'6'' but 3' if you can afford it! Cost finally stopped me going 3'' deep - almost trebled the cost of the tank to £1800 but that was starphire glass!
Looking forward to the progress - keep us informed.
Cheers
Chris
Who made your tank Chris in the end? [/b][/quote]
Keith at windsor aquatics - very good price indeed! knocked the socks of off everyone else!
Kevin Douglas
14-11-05, 23:34
My question is why call a cat Kevin. Its a stupid name for a cat. :D :D :D
Regards
Originally posted by Kevin Douglas@Nov 14 2005, 23:34
My question is why call a cat Kevin. Its a stupid name for a cat. :D :D :D
Regards
Yup, your damn right, especially as shes a female.
We also have another female cat called jack...shes not the foreman though, shes make the tea :lol: :lol:
5061litres
15-11-05, 17:51
sketchup is a very easy to use 3Ddesign program. i use it occasionally but use a much more technical one for my motor part and house/building design.
tony.
btw.. go 2.6high.
I have a 5X2.6x2.6 hole in the wall (couldn't go back any further,) the extra height does make it look kinda "right" , def go for the extra 6" IT WILL be worth it. (you'll only regret it lif you don't)
Look foreward with baited breath.....
have you concidered acrylic ?
PM me if interested
Regards Steve
Originally posted by sgl101@Nov 15 2005, 19:46
have you concidered acrylic ?
PM me if interested
Regards Steve
I have considered acrylic, but the thought of scratches deters me as well as the additional cost.
I got a quote today for a 5'x5'x2.5' for £960.00 which I thought was fair. That being 15mm all-round, brace bars but not holes.
Matt
acrylic would be clearer, looked after well would not scratch as easily as you would beleve and wouldnt be that much more expensive
Regards Steve
I think going for the extra depth is a very good decision!
Watching your progress with interest - should be superb!
John
EnglishReefer
15-11-05, 21:32
I would imagine your going to need some more skimming power, especially if you start to load up on fish. For ££ value you maybe better off getting something custom built (or build yourself) to go with the 703 - check out reefcentral large tank/diy forums, big diy beckett skimmers are often the best choice.
FWIW
703 will skim that tank with ease, just push a higher volumn of water through it.
Size isnt every thing
Regards Steve
Tank volume will be 400 gallons with sump somewhere nearer 500.
The 703 is rated for over 600.
Tank will be 436 gallons assuming 28" water height less displacement, but plus the sump so near 450-500 gallons the 703 is rated at 667 gallons
Im sure it will be fine
Regards Steve
EnglishReefer
15-11-05, 21:49
Wont know for sure till its running a while.
GOTAREEFTOKEEP
15-11-05, 21:52
looking forward to this one going ahead :D
Originally posted by GOTAREEFTOKEEP@Nov 15 2005, 21:52
looking forward to this one going ahead :D
;) ;)
Glad to be of service...
Don't expect too much too soon though, this is a long build this one.
Ive waited long enough for it, but it'll involve excavation/construction and other additional prioritised projects as well (the missus is expecting a kitchen :lol: :lol:)
Ill be doing the lions share of the extenison as well; footings, brickying, labouring, plasterboarding, some of the electrics, plumbing bla bla, so Im gonna be busy all the while.
But it will happen and as I said before, starts next week, the only thing instant in this project will be the coffee.
Matt
Originally posted by xxmattyxx@Nov 15 2005, 21:58
But it will happen and as I said before, starts next week, the only thing instant in this project will be the coffee.
must write that one down :lol:
Lucky Eddie
16-11-05, 17:22
Originally posted by xxmattyxx@Nov 14 2005, 22:17
Stock is likely to be mainly SPS, acros, montis, hystrix.
What no softies ?????????? :lol: :lol:
You've been speaking to those singing potatos again !!!!!!!!!
Wish all the luck in the world for this Matty...........despite feeling profoundly jealous.
Have to admit the concept of a marine pond is brilliant. I like the dimensions just wish I had the room.........I have to go long cos of the neighbours !
I feel a 40 pager coming on here.
good luck with it matt! im looking forward to seeing this one progress!
one bit of advice though,my tank is only 2ft tall(30" wide)and to be honest it is plenty as im quite short so before you go for 30" tall remember youve got to clean it,aquascape it etc etc if your tall then tell me to shut up :lol:
:thumbsup: Nick
Thanks Eddie.
Its nice to be positively encouraged with a project like this. I think announcing on the forum makes you realise the size of the commitment youve made, however thats not necessarily a bad thing, I think it just makes me feel I have to be that much more responsible regarding the setup for the benefit of the livestock.
Nick, I'm a short arse :lol: :lol: , still I have also started to consider those issues about being able to reach the tanks corners and far sides. Im going to also build a platform around the edge of the stand which Ill be able to walk around and view everything from. The tank'll be at worksurface height, so Ill probsaly need to make a set of brickwork steps too ;)
Been thinking about the sump, or rather realised how little thought I had put into that. Theres going to be a far bit of space underneath the tank. I think the top-up water will be housed next to the tank so any space underneath wont be needed for that, however I may be dosing kalk and at the moment am finding that pre-mixing a few days supply and storing it in a small tank for topup is working well, so I may use under the tank for this, but the rest will be available for sump usage. I want to be able to have full access to the space underneath, the height will make this quite easy I think, almost high enough to have two tiers of tanks etc underneath, however theres a lot of talk on UR about sumps and their effectiveness/suitability, what do most peeps think about this? I have no doubt that a sump is a necesity but should they be a bare box with 4-5" of sand in and a skimmer or be something more thought out with some methodology like SiG's?
SPS Hoover
16-11-05, 18:05
Originally posted by nasotang@Nov 16 2005, 17:50
good luck with it Matt! im looking forward to seeing this one progress!
one bit of advice though,my tank is only 2ft tall(30" wide)and to be honest it is plenty as im quite short so before you go for 30" tall remember youve got to clean it,aquascape it etc etc if your tall then tell me to shut up :lol:
:thumbsup: Nick
Nick shut up
Sorry couldn't resist :lol:
Go for it Matt sounds good to me
i was waiting for that Si :lol:
Originally posted by Simon@Nov 16 2005, 18:05
Nick shut up
Sorry couldn't resist :lol:
Go for it Matt sounds good to me
:lol: :lol: :lol:
I think it looks like I am, 2.5' an' all................. ;) ;)
EnglishReefer
16-11-05, 18:25
I've always fancied having a hole in the wall tank with the equipment in the room behind, sump wise I thought of having the sump slightly higher (3 or 4") than the main tank itself - so the display tank is the sump in effect and the other tank drains back into it. This would allow for a serious amount of turnover between sump and display for very little pump wattage.
30" depth is very nice to look at (I'm thinking about going this deep on my new tank) but is it practicle to work on?? if you could have an elevated walkway round the tank it would be easy.
FWIW
This sounds absolutely splendid.
Can't wait to see it take shape - it will take an awful lot of upkeep but I'm sure it will be worth it.
I'd love a shoal of Anthias but I only have room for one more fish in my tank!
It sounds like it will look stunning.
Best of luck
Scott
:cheers:
Lucky Eddie
17-11-05, 08:30
Must say, it pees me off how many of these builds are going on in the Hampshire area.
Still, the daughter is hoping to start at Soton uni next autumn..............hope you'll have it ready by then !!!!!!! :whistling:
JasandJules
19-11-05, 14:18
Hampshire is but a short drive away................. If the destination is worth it, and I think this will be !!
Good luck with it.
Keep the updates coming.
:dance: :dance: :dance: here we go, at last......
Today the machine arrived, this is for levelling a LARGE area of garden as well as levelling the site area for the extension, digging the footings and clearing the oversite.
I have my builders at ready..steady..go..
skip ordered, ballast ordered, cement ordered, builders sand ordered, cement mixer ready for pickup tomorrow, bricks on order (pending approval by the local council), so here we go....at last...I've waited about 12 years for this
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/digger.jpg
Dont look like much space does it...
Originally posted by xxmattyxx@Nov 24 2005, 16:47
:dance: :dance: :dance: here we go, at last......
Today the machine arrived, this is for levelling a LARGE area of garden as well as levelling the site area for the extension, digging the footings and clearing the oversite.
I have my builders at ready..steady..go..
skip ordered, ballast ordered, cement ordered, builders sand ordered, cement mixer ready for pickup tomorrow, bricks on order (pending approval by the local council), so here we go....at last...I've waited about 12 years for this
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/digger.jpg
Dont look like much space does it...
All systems go!! :cheers:
The best part of any work,
THE BIG BOY'S TOY'S!!! :dance: :dance:
Best of luck and keep the updates coming.
Matt. :thumbsup:
We started today, made a real BIG hole in the excavations, garden clearance and rubbish removal.
Im shattered, backs killing me, hopefully all excavations will be completed this time tomorrow, and we'll start the footings Monday.
Need to call the local authority to get them to approve the footings depth and oversite is ok, but all being well, so long as do in accordance with the buildings regs we'll be ok, so long as the back holds.
Matt
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/machine.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/machinee.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/machineee.jpg
Ill post more pics tomorrow, these today show nowhere near what it looked like at the end of the day. We have an area now approaching 35' cleared across the width of the garden, the garden is entirely cleared of shrub beds, newly levelled recreational area at the top of the garden ontop of the new 6' slope, which'll be where the waterfalls and streams will be situated for the new pond.
The guy on the machine is Nick, my partners youngest of 2 sons, he first used a 360 at the age of 4 :wacko: :wacko: :wacko: and is an absolute first rate machine operative, well impressed with him. We wouldnt have completed anything like what we did today, he's good.
5061litres
26-11-05, 20:52
Excellent.. keep up the good work!
Has it been 12 yrs in the making cos thats how long it's taken u to save up the £15k + that ur gonna need to make and run this huge tank???lol :D
tony.
Originally posted by 5061litres@Nov 26 2005, 20:52
Excellent.. keep up the good work!
Has it been 12 yrs in the making cos thats how long it's taken u to save up the £15k + that ur gonna need to make and run this huge tank???lol :D
tony.
It might have taken me that long to save the money to run this setup, but whats happened is Ive always wanted to extend the house, but for one reason and another its never actually materialised.
However, now my wonderfully understanding significant other has cleared my mortgage with her own house sale, we have a nice lump sum left over, so therefore are building the extension and incorporating the new fish-house as an additional project 'tacked' onto the outside of the extension.
God I DO land on my feet sometimes.
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
Matt
I See you've Been busy Matt... :thumbsup:
Mark... :)
Originally posted by TRAMLINE@Nov 26 2005, 21:23
I See you've Been busy Matt... :thumbsup:
Mark... :)
I sure have bud, hows the tank issues developing?
Matt
Originally posted by xxmattyxx@Nov 26 2005, 20:56
However, now my wonderfully understanding significant other has cleared my mortgage with her own house sale, we have a nice lump sum left over, so therefore are building the extension and incorporating the new fish-house as an additional project 'tacked' onto the outside of the extension.
God I DO land on my feet sometimes.
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
Matt
has she got a sister :whistling:
any way great going will be good to see pictures when its start :bow:
Originally posted by xxmattyxx+Nov 26 2005, 22:15--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (xxmattyxx @ Nov 26 2005, 22:15)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteBegin-TRAMLINE@Nov 26 2005, 21:23
I See you've Been busy Matt... :thumbsup:
Mark... :)
I sure have bud, hows the tank issues developing?
Matt[/b][/quote]
Hi Matt...
The nem got a little shifty once I connected the skimmer...but eventually settled back to his usual position...Chemistry seam to be settling down now fingered crossed Ah! ;)
Mark... :)
JasandJules
27-11-05, 09:36
Any more pics?
will you be having an official tank opening day??? i suspect you'd get some visitors to that :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Originally posted by SCOOB@Nov 27 2005, 10:25
will you be having an official tank opening day??? i suspect you'd get some visitors to thatÂ* :thumbsup:Â* :thumbsup:
Ooo, maybe Scoob, hadn't thought of that, long way off yet. Particularly if this wet weather keeps up. Been working at it all week, on budget at least which is a blessing, but its been wet and a real struggle.
More piccies here anyway, not too much to see, but something to chew on.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/side%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Concrete going in, underneath existing house foundations.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/trench%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Completed footings.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/pipe%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Re-routed pipe-work.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/mess%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
This is where its all happening.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/joe%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Sals eldest son, good lad.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/front%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
John, my brickie builder mate, he's a perfectionist, you can't tell him anything; he annoys the crap out of me because of this, even cleaning your shovel off is done the wrong way. But in all honesty, he'll do a great job, and at the end I expect I'll be glad of that.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/frog%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
I came down this morning and found somewhere around 20 of these fellas in the trench, some so small, unbelievable.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/boss%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Kevin the foreman, never shovels, just supervises <_< <_<
Hope you enjoy.
Matt
p.s. Just been looking through these pics with Sal, they just DO NOT convey the complete devastation outside, the garden now is a mill-pond. We've been out there stamping around in 10 inches of slurry. Ive been joking most of the day how I dont need to build a waterfall and pond now as we have one courtesy of the south-westerlies.
You're right, it Look's like bomb site, you sure it's not a Nuclear shelter you're building mate… :D :D I think Kevin’s just making sure he gets new home that’s all... :lol:
PS: Make sure you get enough drainage points & pipes near the tank and the new tank room outside matt... ;) You know you'll need them :whistling:
Otherwise coming along OK! there matee :thumbsup:
Mark... :)
just found this thread it's looking good i have a forman like that too but has a bigger bark ! :blink:
First piece of solid installation, oversite blockwork going in.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0001%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Matt
JasandJules
06-12-05, 12:31
Your foreman is magnificent.
Is he a Maine Coon? If not, what is he?
I bet he doesn't help much but criticises an awful lot too....
Originally posted by JasandJules@Dec 6 2005, 12:31
Your foreman is magnificent.
Is he a Maine Coon? If not, what is he?
I bet he doesn't help much but criticises an awful lot too....
I think she does have Maine Coon in her, although we got her from a cats home (re-housed) she has many characteristics of a Maine. They are meant to behave similarly to a domesticated dog; she will sit quite often if you tell her to, will come when you call her, begs; although not quite as large as many Maines, I'm still sure she has a large percentage of that in her.
I love her dearly.
Shes 14 and has over the last year or so declined in her level of fitness. She spends most hours nowadays sleeping. Im sure shes happy but does tend to slip and fall, off furniture etc. I dont expect her to go for too many years more now and will be dreadfully upset when she goes.
Oh, and yes, she critiscises continually :lol: :lol: :lol: all I get is whinging from her, but then again thats all women do isnt it??? :wacko: :whistling: :whistling:
Matt
:blink: :unsure: :wacko: You stole My Bloody banner…You thief :lol: :lol: :lol:
Mark...
JasandJules
07-12-05, 12:01
She certainly looks like my old cat, who was a maine.. They are magnificent animals. Yours is an absolute stunner.
I must get another one, but with four cats in the house right now, I am not sure!!
And as for moaning, Nail, Head.......
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0005%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0008%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Above image is pretty much where the new tank will be located. The additional strip of footing extending from the low brick-wall will serve 3 purposes. Firstly it'll support the wall which wil retain the next door neighbours garden, secondly that wall will also from part of the room where the tank wil be housed and thirdly, the right hand tank support structure will also be located on thsi pad.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/lkDSCF0007%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Expecting to get the building control officer out from the local authority on Tuesday, and have the main structures over-site/damp-proof and insulation in the floor in by the end of then.
From then on the brick-work will take a large part of time devoted to the job for the foreseeable, so its onwards and UPWARDS from then on.
:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Matt
:thumbsup: to the Mrs for her tolerance whilst you wreck the garden :lol:
Making excellent progress, I love builds like this.
Wow matty this is a huge project.. looks most impressive..
Just a quick question being mid terrace how did u get the digger into the back garden???
Originally posted by narthur@Dec 11 2005, 14:17
Just a quick question being mid terrace how did u get the digger into the back garden???
;) ;) ;)
Mini-diggers 'shrink', you can withdraw the track width down to 30" and when on site later you can 'expand' them hydraulically back to their working width.
It went through with 1/2" to spare each side down one of my neighbours alleyways, although we do have right-of-way down there anyway.
The manufacturers have made these diggers with the intention of taking them through a house if necessary.
Matt
More pics, things seemed to have slowed down. Bit depressing really. The guy whos doing the work is good at his job, but its more a 'Sunday Afternoon Drive' to him than something which I think is missing drive and motivation. Anyway, I stayed at home today to try to push things on, also we had the Building Control Officer from the Authority out today, so things moved on a little better.
First things first, heres Kevin having a well earned break, this is one of her after having just put the kettle on.......
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0011%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0013%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
And these are where we've got to now.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0015%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0016%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/sDSCF0019%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0020%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
JasandJules
13-12-05, 16:42
Sadly mate, I am finding the same thing.
Builders do not believe it is important to get it done quickly.. We keep getting people in for quotes, having told them it is urgent, they say, well, we can start around March..........
But at least the Foreman is keeping them on their toes. She is an absolute stunner, and as a result of your pics of her earlier we went to a rescue centre the other day to see if we can find a Maine Coon.. I think I am going to have to get one now, such wonderful cats... Though our other four may not be best pleased.
Still, this is one hell of a project, keep those piccies coming.
First things first, heres Kevin having a well earned break, this is one of her after having just put the kettle on.......
man, thats a clever cat! :lol:.. isn't Kevin a bit of a boys name.... :huh: ;)
hey - watch that RO unit doesn't freeze up!
Originally posted by clippo@Dec 13 2005, 16:44
First things first, heres Kevin having a well earned break, this is one of her after having just put the kettle on.......
man, thats a clever cat! :lol:.. isn't Kevin a bit of a boys name.... :huh: ;)
Okay, explanation time.
Why is the cat female and the name Kevin.
Years ago I developed a fascination for Egypt and all things concerning Egyptology. The largest pyramid in Giza is named after a Pharoah called Chephren. Kevin the cat was initially called Chephren, but thats a bit noncey :lol: :lol: so it was changed to Kevin.
Da darrr
Matt
hey who cares if it can make tea eh?! :lol:
Looking good btw! :thumbsup:
Originally posted by JasandJules@Dec 13 2005, 16:42
Builders do not believe it is important to get it done quickly..
Funny, I have found the legal proffesion to be very similar :lol: :lol:
p.s I couldnt start until July
Thought I'd lob this in incase anyones interested.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/planner22.jpg
I bet that will be the only house in the UK, where you argue to do the washing up. ;)
Originally posted by xxmattyxx@Dec 13 2005, 17:58
Thought I'd lob this in incase anyones interested.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/planner22.jpg
I take it you spend alot of time cooking :D
Or doing the dishes :wub:
Matt, admitedly havent read all the posts, but are you planning on making it eco friendly? Using natural daylight and cooling via heat exchanger and the pond?
Originally posted by tuan@Dec 13 2005, 18:19
Matt, admitedly havent read all the posts, but are you planning on making it eco friendly? Using natural daylight and cooling via heat exchanger and the pond?
Oh Christ Tuan I hadnt thought of that :wacko: :wacko: :wacko:
To be honest with you my head is barmy with builders right now, wanting to get on with the actual construction of the building, the tank is somewhere in the fog of time.
Umm, to answer your question right now,
ummm........ :whistling: :whistling: :whistling:
Matt
Originally posted by tuan@Dec 13 2005, 18:19
Matt, admitedly havent read all the posts, but are you planning on making it eco friendly? Using natural daylight and cooling via heat exchanger and the pond?
Good thinking :idea: That’s worth considering Matt...The layout is easy positioned to add it.. ;)
Mark
might seem slow to you but these updates are grand. looks to be really coming on, i'm dead jealous.
keep it up. :thumbsup:
Looks awesome.. i love the idea of the tank being over or near the sink :thumbsup:
Well I think a kitchen is a daft place for a big fish tank ;)
Originally posted by pavlo@Dec 13 2005, 23:36
Well I think a kitchen is a daft place for a big fish tank ;)
:whistling: I'll happily come take it off your hands :lol:
Some more action today.
As you can see we got the floor for the main structure sorted.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0022%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0024%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
This one below shows the area where the tank is going and the wall to the right currently being built is also one of the walls for the room where the tank is to be located.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0025%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Up up and away now.............
As you can see the brick-work was well and truly started today :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Various angles of the advances made today and in particular of where the tank wil be sited. The length of brick-work in these shots, and in particular where the course of bricks stops one course below the rest is where the tank will be viewed, therefore in essence we've started the area that will form the viewing hole-in-the-wall section :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/DSCF0002%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/ddDSCF0004%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/ddDSCF0005%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Matt
Lucky Eddie
16-12-05, 16:44
Crikey, Matt.......I cant believe how quick you're getting on with this !
Shame you forgot the hole in the floor for the sunken sump !!!!!!! :lol:
ME ME ME!!! i want to get rid of the garden and have my tank!!!!!!
Shoot the cat it looks evil ;) :lol: :lol: :lol:
cant you hurry them builders up, am dying to see it finished
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
Originally posted by xxmattyxx@Dec 16 2005, 17:15
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/ddDSCF0005%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
Stop taking tea breaks and get on with it. :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
You must trust me :lol: :lol: I'm pushing 'em as fast as I can.
Problem is though, despite it being my place, the builder is a pedantic pr!ck, and it always takes 2 days for him to agree to anything, but the price I pay for that is knowing the job will be quality and also as he's a mate therefore being able to also do my bit for the effort.
Tank will be in as soon as is feasibly poss.
Matt
Slow up man, you're going to fast :D
Mark... :thumbsup:
Originally posted by TRAMLINE@Dec 17 2005, 23:20
Slow up man, you're going to fast :D
Mark... :thumbsup:
Bleedin 'eck, I may have to quote you later if others keep shouting for progress
:D :D
Was it difficult to get planning permission?
We'd like to extend out property to have a dining room (incidentally with a large fish tank in it) and a bigger kitchen.
Is it a case of contacting the LA with plans?
Cheers
Scott
PS I like the cat
Originally posted by bluem00n0@Dec 18 2005, 08:57
Was it difficult to get planning permission?
We'd like to extend out property to have a dining room (incidentally with a large fish tank in it) and a bigger kitchen.
Is it a case of contacting the LA with plans?
Cheers
Scott
PS I like the cat
It was piece of cake actually.
What happened was:
1. I decided it would be a good idea to extend, probably out by about 12'
2. Contact an architect, he comes out to view the site, we discuss what we want. At one stage he says, '....well, youll get something, not sure how big theyll let you go, but youll be allowed to put something in there'
3. As said we'd wanted about an additional 12', but we thought, if we apply for 12' they'll approve 9', so we went for 16' hoping they'd come down to about 12', they approved the lot :lol: :lol: :lol:
(more kitchen units to buy :angry: :angry: )
4. Initialy when the plans were submitted the council planners returned the drawings informing us we didn't need planning, but this was a mistake.
Anyway, essentially everything was easy, although the architect cost I still think that was worth it as we didnt know what we'd come up against. This site is full of potential pit-falls, and although nothing has reared itself yet, it easily could have.
In total, costs are, planning permission from council, architect to draw plans, submit them, buildings regulations and inspections from building control officer total £1,020.00
Matt
We were told that the main expense with extensions is in the foundations and advised to do a 2 storey one which wouldallow us to go 3 bed instead of 2 or have one hell of a master bedroom.
Have to put in some over time I suppose...
Good luck with the project it's coming on really well. Can't see ours happening for a good few years but at least we'll have plenty of valuable reference points on here to help us when it's possible.
Cheers
Scott
Originally posted by bluem00n0@Dec 18 2005, 11:29
We were told that the main expense with extensions is in the foundations and advised to do a 2 storey one which wouldallow us to go 3 bed instead of 2 or have one hell of a master bedroom.
Have to put in some over time I suppose...
Good luck with the project it's coming on really well. Can't see ours happening for a good few years but at least we'll have plenty of valuable reference points on here to help us when it's possible.
Cheers
Scott
There are a number of variables when it comes to building work, they reckon once your up to ground level, therefore; excavations/skips/pipe-work re-routing/footings in (depending on dimensions, the ones recommended for here were 450mm x 450mm x 225mm; but we went bigger), floor/brickwork to oversite
is going to come somewhere about 50 % of construction costs.
We've done £6,500 - £7,000 so far. Which depends on how you look at it, such as, do we include my lost wages whilst Ive been here helping with the work, if not then the figure is less by a good proportion. But this also includes the back-door (£250.00) and also various materials that I'll use on the tank room which we hadn't budgeted for in the first place.
Matt
julesandsand
18-12-05, 12:19
You could smack a hole in the bathroom wall, stick one of those 2 way mirrors in there and you could lie in the bath, sipping the Pinot Grigio and look at the tank.
:lol:
Looking good - I'm really looking forward to seeing it complete.
:thumbsup:
Just one pic, thought it might be worth it, as nothings been posted for a good time since before christmas.
Only posting it as this is the first appearance of anything really solid for where the fish-room is going to be, xmas was spent in homebase buying kitchen units :lol: :lol: :lol: so its nice now to be able to do something for the fish-room.
You can see the size of it better now, obviously the hatch will be located to the right (as we view it) of the window opening, and it'll be as long as to where the brick-work has indents in (approximately 11'), this is to enable the brickwork for the far wall to be jointed into the existing.
Matt
looking really good.
was it a requirement that your brick matched the neighbours house or was it your choice?
fishandchips
05-01-06, 17:19
did you have to climb a tree to take the pic :D
Originally posted by SCOOB@Jan 5 2006, 17:01
looking really good.
was it a requirement that your brick matched the neighbours house or was it your choice?
Funny one that Scoob, cos they stipulated on the planning that the brick had to match the brickwork of the existing property.
So,I phoned the boys at the council and told them it was rendered, as you can see, then they said it still had to match it :lol: :lol:
So, I said how do we go about this then, they said whatever brick was chosen needed to be brought into the local council offices so they could compare it........ I then asked him how he was going to compare the desired brick to the existing brick, which he wouldn't be able to see sat in his office and was also below 3/4" of render.
He wasnt impressed, I still havent taken a brick in, whats the point?
Anyway, eventually we chose one similiar to the surroundings, cant see that would actually ruffle their feathers.
:whistling: :whistling:
Matt
Originally posted by fishandchips@Jan 5 2006, 17:19
did you have to climb a tree to take the pic :D
Na, this is where the waterfall is going to be, for the outside pond, I live on Hill Road, can't you tell?
:lol:
Johnymajors
05-01-06, 19:40
Matty ... are you continueing with a flat roof or you gonna run a pitched one over the pair.
coming on nicely tho :thumbsup:
Flat roof, in keeping with the others neighbouring.
Any reason?
Thanks
Matt
Johnymajors
05-01-06, 22:41
Just had a few problems in the past, adding to a flat roof without leakage or drainage problems :huh: ...... then again may have something to do with excessive beverage consumption :cheers: .
Would be interested in some piccies when its done, if possible ... to see how the pros do it :thumbsup: as i have to do me parents new place, in the summer, and would rather just add to the exsisting flat they have. Just a bit dubious, due to past experiances.
Either that or ill just lay off the beer this time. :D
Originally posted by Johnymajors@Jan 5 2006, 22:41
Just had a few problems in the past, adding to a flat roof without leakage or drainage problems :huh: ...... then again may have something to do with excessive beverage consumption :cheers: .
Would be interested in some piccies when its done, if possible ... to see how the pros do it :thumbsup: as i have to do me parents new place, in the summer, and would rather just add to the exsisting flat they have. Just a bit dubious, due to past experiances.
Either that or ill just lay off the beer this time. :D
The existing flat-roof and existing extension are coming down, and being rebuilt, so the new roof will be a complete new one.
Matt
Johnymajors
06-01-06, 00:47
Dont do things by half then? :D
Whats the total building outlay gonna cost (if you dont mind me asking that is?)
Originally posted by Johnymajors@Jan 6 2006, 00:47
Dont do things by half then? :D
Whats the total building outlay gonna cost (if you dont mind me asking that is?)
Well, we budgeted for £20,000, for the building, including fittings, new bathroom/kitchen etc.
However, at one stage it was looking like we might achieve it with some nice spare to play with, its looking increasingly like we wont be, although we shouldnt be over this by too much. I havent looked at the figures since before christmas, but since then we've been shopping :wacko: :wacko: :wacko: :blink:
I ned to sit down and work it out again, and soon, trouble is, the longer it goes without working it out the more frightening it becomes.
Matt
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/retank.jpg
Okay, spent a little while drawing up how this whole thing is likely to take shape.
Ive put together what is a small part of the external plumbing. However, it seems whenever I give this project any thought at this particular stage it has a habit of overwhelming :lol: :lol:
So, with that in mind this is intended for a bit of guidance, maybe some suggestions, questions, queries or help may clear the mental fog !!
Obviously theres going to be a fair bit of room under this tank as its going to be 5' from front to back, however theres not going to be a huge amount of space in the tank-room after the tank is in there. So it makes sense to use as much of this space as possible.
I'd like to have as much diversity in the system as poss, and therefore figure a cryptic zone would benefit in this respect, but also as large an area as possible. So as things stand Ive got in mind a DSB measuring 4' from front to back and 3' long. Quite a nice size, but are these proportions for the best, can anyone see any issues that may arise from it being squareish?? as opposed to the traditional long and thin sump design?
Ive also thought it would be possible to install additional tanking (thus increasing water volume) underground, I think Carco has something along these lines.
The area that is going to be where the sump is as things stand could be excavated for this purpose.
I havent so far illustrated where the skimmer will be, but guess this'll be fed from the sump, prior to any biological action on the water I guess. Also not shown the top-up tank, water change butt, calcium reactor or carbon/phosphate stirrers. These are all likely to be outside any glass work, but probably under the tank, excepting the top-up and water change.
Also havent shown any of the guts of the sump, i.e. design of wiers, positioning of caulerpa bed, D.S.B location, this requires further thought, and most definately suggestions, the main reason for this particular post, your help and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Matt
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/12345tank.gif
Thought Id add this, a few modifications and a little extra detail.
Things are somewhat clearer now, appreciate the chat Si, ta muchly :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Matt
simon garratt
09-01-06, 16:15
It'll never work............ :lol:
:whistling:
Regards
Si. :)
Originally posted by simon garratt@Jan 9 2006, 16:15
It'll never work............ :lol:
:whistling:
Regards
Si. :)
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
Now he tells me !!!!
julesandsand
09-01-06, 16:45
No idea whether it'll work or not, but at least the diagrams look fantastic.
:lol: :thumbsup:
simon garratt
09-01-06, 16:56
No idea whether it'll work or not, but at least the diagrams look fantastic.
thats what i secretely thought after id hung up...... :lol: :lol:
Just kidding Matt..........best of luck m8 and as stated give us a call if you need help. ;)
Excellant project Matty :bow: :bow: :bow:
How did you manage to get the other half to allow you to take this on
I think Kevin may be lying in wait for the new 'tasty livestock/food' to arrive
A cat with a plan
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Originally posted by hamagogo@Jan 11 2006, 21:32
Excellant project Matty :bow: :bow: :bow:
How did you manage to get the other half to allow you to take this on
I think Kevin may be lying in wait for the new 'tasty livestock/food' to arrive
A cat with a plan
:thumbsup: :thumbsup:
:lol: :lol: :lol:
She wanted a kitchen, I wanted a BIGGER fish-tank, thats where the negotiations started.
;) ;)
Shes too good actually, there was no resistance whatsoever, shes knows what it means to me, unbelivable though.
Anyway, been doing a bit more planning, the pipe-work drawings stay pretty much as they are, a little modifications though, but this is what Ive come up with for the stand.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/tank%20xyzstand.gif
Matt
DSB? :o
still got nightmares about the last crash
Are you sure?
:thanx:
:cheers:
Originally posted by lukmek@Jan 13 2006, 02:06
DSB? :o
still got nightmares about the last crash
Are you sure?
:thanx:
:cheers:
You lost me Luk, did your DSB crash?
Matt
hi bud
looking realy good, keep it up and if you want a perfectionest sparky to go with your builder give me a pm. :D
going back to your bricks, id personaly would worry about that little detail, as he could turn round and say they dont match......change it! not worth the rish imho, there are plenty of jobs worths out there bud. dont give them the satisfaction. :thumbsup:
Johnymajors
19-01-06, 18:18
Oi ...... :huh:
Been nearly 2 weeks since the last pics ..... you been slacking or somin. Need to speak to your foreman bout this ....... Now wheres kev :D
Originally posted by Johnymajors@Jan 19 2006, 18:18
Oi ...... :huh:
Been nearly 2 weeks since the last pics ..... you been slacking or somin. Need to speak to your foreman bout this ....... Now wheres kev :D
Oh blimey.......
This build is beginning to test my patience, tolerance and stamina.
As has already been stated about the guy doing the building work, I can't knock his standard of work, but his rate of work leaves something to be desired. I was asking him about why we wernt doing something today and his response was 'Well, I just plod along with this.............' :angry: :angry: :angry:
Everything is wet, the inside of the house is filthy with mud/brick-dust, I have 2 tarpaulins over the back of the house, one covering the back-end of the bathroom , so its freezing in there :angry: :angry: :angry: and the other over the kitchen :angry: :angry: :angry: . To get into and out of the house I have to crawl out of a hole in the wall with the remains of a window and it's frame hanging over my head, Homebase have delayed the delivery of some of the kitchen by 5 weeks :angry: :angry: :angry: my garden is sh!t-hole and Im just thoroughly dogged off with it.
I just looked through the first 2 pages of this thread and my heart dropped when I saw the old pictures of my woodland garden
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/cry2.gifhttp://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/cry2.gifhttp://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/cry2.gif
I'll see what new pics I have, I do have some, but not too much, nothing extra for the tank-room I don't think, I'll take a look.
Matt
The pics here are from yesterday, the rear wall to the house in these is mostly still there, not anymore !!!
Kevin looks equally distressed about the whole scenario :blink: :blink:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/XXDSCF0044%20(450%20x%20600).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/XXDSCF0045%20(450%20x%20600).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/XXDSCF0046%20(450%20x%20600).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/XXDSCF0047%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/XXDSCF0048%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/XXDSCF0049%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/XXDSCF0050%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
holy crap thats 1 scary looking cat :ph34r:
Originally posted by bigray@Jan 19 2006, 21:02
holy crap thats 1 scary looking cat :ph34r:
:lol: :lol: :lol:
Kevin is the sweetest, funniest, loving thing I've ever known, thank god its a cat I'm saying that about ;) ;) ;)
Matt
bud im sure its frustrating, but do you want or need a rushed job? a "bit" of mess and a "bit" of hassel go without saying in this sort of project, bare with him. :thumbsup:
cracking cat!
i had one just like it up untill a few years ago....do a google search on 'maine coon'!
Coming along nicely!
Should all those gaps in the bricks be there ;)
Here's my boy - takes a lot to worry him!
JasandJules
20-01-06, 12:57
Matt,
Better he takes his time and it goes right, than it is rushed, and in three months time you have to get another guy in to repair/rebuild it all??
I know it is frustrating, it has taken us three months and we haven't even got the new tank stands built yet....BUT I would still rather than happen than the job go wrong....
Fantastic shots of Kevin again, yelling at you for attention no doubt.
Wayne, Main Coons are one of the nicest cats you can get.. Had one for 13 years... Loved it. He used to sleep under the covers with me...
Steve, that looks like a cat on the edge.........
Originally posted by JasandJules@Jan 20 2006, 12:57
Steve, that looks like a cat on the edge.........
LOL!
He's called noobs - or nooby - as he is precisely that - in addition to looking a bit like a brush at times he is as daft as a brush!
Favourite pastime - sleeping:
Johnymajors
21-01-06, 14:02
The worst part about big changes to a house is the last stages of the build as its the messiest and most awkward part.
Hang in there, it will be worth the agro :thumbsup:
sharemaster
21-01-06, 14:25
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/XXDSCF0050%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
"No don't do it like that!!" "what are you doing that for" etc :) :) Your cat is like our other halfs!!
Looks like a mess at the moment your missus must be a diamond! maybe she could be our liasion with our better halfs!!
As they say "You gotta break eggs to make an omellete!" and it's gonna be one hell of an ommellete!
How long you looking at until d-day??
:thumbsup:
Originally posted by sharemaster@Jan 21 2006, 14:25
How long you looking at until d-day??
:thumbsup:
Well, I'm praying the roof will be imminent, if not part way done, by this time next week. However, if youre talking about the tank, tank-room etc, then that's a long way off yet.
Still need to do the footings for that and the base for the tank, walls to support it etc, but once the extension is done the tank-room will be well into the logistics stage, getting blocks, concrete etc. If all goes well, that'll be started by mid-Feb, but that also depends on the weather and don't forget I have plastering, electrics, plumbing, tiling, floor to lay, painting, door hanging, window fitting, gutter fixing, skirting board fixing, bathroom to fit, kitchen to assemble, kitchen to fit, hole in wall to create, patio and path to lay, as well as go to Cairo for a weeks holiday end of April.
Therefore D-Day is..............................
:whistling: :)
Well, its been a week since my last post.
Firstly I would like to apologise to those on here who may be thinking why is he boring us with all this stuff about his house extension. The answer is simple, but I do sometimes think myself that no-one wants to hear about that. Its that this is ALL about the eventual tank/fish-room thats part of the works we have on going.
But, an update, as this last week has been fairly significant. The building is effectively 'sound' now and Elvis has left ;) ;) if you see what I mean. We have a roof, its to be felted this week, the glazing panels arrive this week, so the windows will also be fitted, my mate Dick hung the back-door today and the roof insulation is ongoing. So now.......TA DARR, we're in a position to push onwards and upwards........
The hole for the 'hole-in-the-wall' bit has effectively been conceived, just a case of knocking out those relevant bricks and blocks, the lintels already in place. One half of one of the fish-room walls has been built with adjacent foundation for the tank.
I've sourced my Deltec AP703 skimmer, feed-pump and calcium reactor.
Theres plenty of additional work in the pipe-line to be done, fitted Kevins cat-flap today, as an example :wacko: :wacko: but as said in my previous post whatever else I do theres going to be plenty to be getting on with as it is. My missus is a diamond, as Sharemaster suggested, she wants her kitchen, and theres lots of flat-packs in the new room also waiting for my attention.
BUT.......
I've basically taken 2 months off work since we started this, and I have to get back tomorrow or else I'll lose my customers.
So, this week has been hard, the weather has been good to be dry, but very trying as we only had a tarpaulin over the kitchen and bathroom for nearly two weeks with an easterly wind blowing and night time temperatures of -5C. But we now have a roof, door and imminent windows. Work commences tomorrow, and from then on in I'll be able to devote time to this project in a more orderly fashion.
Apologies for the irrelevance if some feel that, just I know of a few others on here pursuing similiar projects at the moment and thought it relevant for that reason.
I'll post more pictures soon, just time is short lately.
Matt
Don't apologise Matt - it's great that you've taken the time to keep us up to date with your progress on this pretty big project. Still watching with interest!! :thumbsup:
John
No apologies mate. We like the full story :D
Have you sacked the builder then :blink:
Cant wait for the tank area to begin :thumbsup:
Mark..
Originally posted by Lambretta Madman@Jan 30 2006, 13:30
No apologies mate. We like the full story :D
Have you sacked the builder then :blink:
Cant wait for the tank area to begin :thumbsup:
Mark..
The builder has about 3 more days work, mostly for things like tidying up bits and bobs, bit of briskwork here, the odd window there.
Today I fitted the roof-windows in the flat roof after work, just got in now.
No tank building structure as such done yet, I have ninety flat-pack boxes in the kitchen waiting to be constructed at the moment :angry: :angry: :angry:
Matt
JasandJules
30-01-06, 18:39
It is all coming together now.
Take your time, take deep breaths, the worst is over. Now come all the fun bits (Hell, I think getting a new kitchen is fun too.)
Jas
Just caught up with this thread - what a great project! Now I understand where your knowledge on the trials and tribulations of extensions has come from ;)
Love the dimensions for the tank, I'm thinking of similar front-to-back depth but probably a bit longer and a little taller, so I'll be interested to see how you find the maintenance.
Regards,
Keith
bit longer and a little taller
Bleedin' nora !!!!!!!!!
see how you find the maintenance.
That will be interesting :wacko: :wacko:
hi matty looking good long way to go ive been on mine a year off & on and only 200g :wacko:
:o that cat looks scarry but lovely :)
Thought I'd post a few polaroids, as a few things have moved on now, we now have a fully fitted, functional, weather-proof and draught-proof roof, and the same can also be said of the windows and doors, so depsite my negativity of a couple of weeks ago we're getting there.
Tramline came round today, and steered well clear of tools, implements, nails, screws and plasterborad, he simply raided my wallet ;) ;) ;)
Anyway, here are few progress images.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/1DSCF0061.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/2DSCF0066.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/3DSCF0068.jpg
As you can see from this image the old roof from the previous flat-roof extension is now gone, so we're one big 23' flat-roof extension now
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/9DSCF0074%20(600%20x%20450).jpg
This next image shows where the hole for the tank will be, the top of it being the top of the quarter blocks and the bottom being 3 full blocks below that height, the 2 vertical lines of cement within the blockwork illustrate the sides, although this isnt the full width of the tank, this is done to help conceal any Stream pumps in there, Tuans idea :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/4DSCF0070.jpg
Look now at what landed on my carpet today, wooo bloody hooo, what a beast, a Deltec 703, Deltec Sequence pump 5250 and Schuran Clacium Reactor. There REALLY is NO going back now !!!!!!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/5DSCF0081.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/6DSCF0084.jpg
;) ;) ;) 3 fick-off air-intake and circulation pumps, a footprint half the size of Wembley and one God awful great feed pump, however I may feed the skimmer as a 't' from the gravity feed out of the tank and down to the sump and use the sequence for circulation.
Enjoy.
My missus is chuffed, theres no room in the lounge at the mo to push the hoover round :lol: :lol:
Matt
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploads/7DSCF0082.jpg
Don't lie, I just about give it to you...how's the moths! Had a few still fluttering about between them notes you give us... :lol: :lol: :lol:
Mark :)
Originally posted by TRAMLINE@Feb 4 2006, 21:31
Don't lie, I just about give it to you...how's the moths! Had a few still fluttering about between them notes you give us... :lol: :lol: :lol:
Mark :)
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
Actually he walked thorugh the door with this huge lump of plastic, pumps, cables and wires forcing the thing on me, insisting I take it off his hands. I had no choice :wacko: :wacko: :wacko:
But I do know now Tramline is an out and out liar, he said he isnt going to carry on reefing, yeah right, look out theres a low flying pig :lol: :lol:
Matt
lookin good keep the pic's comeing
Lawrence Corley
05-02-06, 01:18
Hey Matt,
this is the first chance I've had to read the thread from start to finish (so far). Gotta say mate that this is gonna be one hell of a set up. Congrat's on your perseverence so far and best of luck for the future, though with all your forward planning luck shouldn't come in to it!!!
Keep the updates coming.
Loz
PS what tank dimensions did you eventually decide on?
PPS is there something in the Hampshire water that causes reef-addiction. You've more than your fair share of top reefs in your part of the country.( Not jealous .............obviously :wub: :wub: )
Okie dokie, here we go again, now that UR is back online,
Lawrence, the eventual dimensions are going to be, and this is IT, without a shadow of doubt, unless a comet hits the back garden :D :D ......4' wide, 5' from front to back and 2.5' height.
The last few days Ive been plasterboarding the ceiling, today I started plastering the walls. Takes a little longer than I imagined, but want to do a good job, so not rushing it.
This last week the sparky has been in to do the first fix for the wiring, which includes at least running hte cable for the fish-room, although it wnt be connected yet, its there........6 mm with 2 core and earth on a 30 amp fuse, so lots of capacity to play with there. I told the missus we're gonna also want to run electric up to the shed at the end of the garden. This'll come off an outlet from the fuseboard in the fish-room, little does she know, Im planning some additional 'water' at the far end of the garden too :D :eek:
Tomorrow Ill carry on with the plastering, and crack on with this over the coming week, then screed the kitchen floor. After that theres about 4 days work again for the builder, moving an internal wall etc. But after that the kitchen will be fitted and then Ill be free to really start the fish-room.
Matt
Hey Matt,
this is the first chance I've had to read the thread from start to finish (so far). Gotta say mate that this is gonna be one hell of a set up. Congrat's on your perseverence so far and best of luck for the future, though with all your forward planning luck shouldn't come in to it!!!
Keep the updates coming.
Loz
PS what tank dimensions did you eventually decide on?
PPS is there something in the Hampshire water that causes reef-addiction. You've more than your fair share of top reefs in your part of the country.( Not jealous .............obviously :wub: :wub: )
Wow, just got an e-mail from a company I asked a quote for regarding this tank, to build in 3/4" acrylic.
To be honest, Iasked for this quote a month ago....what have they been doing in between??
Anyway, regarding the price :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:
instantsquid
23-02-06, 16:42
Don't keep us in suspense! What was the figure????
JasandJules
23-02-06, 16:47
£50?
Surely not lower.....:-)
dan-the-man
23-02-06, 16:48
More importantly, can you afford it??!!! Will you afford it??!!!
JasandJules
23-02-06, 16:52
There is still Glass though if push comes to shove...
Nearly Jas, nearly.....:D :D :D :D
Well, I could NOT afford that, no wayyyyyy, not what they quoted.
My e-mail reply was flippin' eck
Anyway, it was........
no, actually, give me a figure or two, see if you guys have a more realistic view of what it would cost. I kinda thought a fair whack, but not that much.
What do you guys reckon, I'll will enlighten you, but what do you guys reckon it was first, 5' x 4' x 2.5' in acrylic.
Matt
dan-the-man
23-02-06, 19:40
Ermmmmm, £1500? I looked to see how much a 36x36x28" and 30x18x18" would be and i wouldve had to use a 2030 x 3050mm sheet - that wouldve cost £651 inc delivery, and that was in 12mm acrylic!! So actually, I'd say my guess was too low. More like well over £2000.
2 grand including delivery?
fishandchips
23-02-06, 20:24
if your having a "hole in the wall" tank do you need all the tank in acrylic? can you not get away with the front viewing panel in acrylic and the rest in glass?
i havnt had time to look at the rest of the post but there was an add in
pfk from neptune aquatics and there price for a 20ftx2ftx2ft was £1000. maybe worth given them a try if you havnt already
Keith was the closest
£2,600.
I'll most likely be doing it in glass anyway. But the crowd that gave me that quote have had my query for a month, god knows how long for the tank to be built in that case.
Spoken to one of the regulars on here who reckons that a couple or three of us could most likely make one for less than a Grand out of glass.
They already have tank-building experience as well.
Matt
if your having a "hole in the wall" tank do you need all the tank in acrylic? can you not get away with the front viewing panel in acrylic and the rest in glass?
Sorry, you'll have to excuse my ignorance, but for what purpose would that be?
The downside of acrylic, as well as cost, is its likelihood to scratch, if I was to do it 'mixed' the front panel would be glass the rest acrylic.
Unless I have the cart before the horse??
I dunno....
Matt
I can't remember how things stood the last time we had images on this site concerning this thread.
Anyway, bearing in mind the rate that some peeps appear to be motoring on with their tanks and the relevant threads I htoguht it might be about time something of a photographic nature was posted here.
This must be just about the first pic on this thread that gives any real idea of what things will hopefully look like in the future.
Anyway, you can see Ive been cracking on.
Maybe the last pic we didn't even have a roof. Well, we have one now. We're plasterboarded, the sparky has been as you can see for first fix.
We have windows and Ive been plastering the float on the walls.
I'd love to get the first float finished tomorrow and skim it Saturday, wow, the top screed for the floor might go down Sunday, but I doubt it.
And, you can see where the viewing panel for the tank is.
YES LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THATS THE BIG OBLONG BIT ON THE LEFT-HAND SIDE......TA DARR !!!!!!!
We might be getting there.
Matt
http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/hampshirereef/windowview.jpg
If you are not skimming the walls the same day as putting the base coat on then I recommend that you seal the walls with a 1:5 unibond/water mix before skimming. If you dont, the finish coat will go off so fast you wont believe it
If you are not skimming the walls the same day as putting the base coat on then I recommend that you seal the walls with a 1:5 unibond/water mix before skimming. If you dont, the finish coat will go off so fast you wont believe it
I certainly won't be skimming the same day.
Today is almost over :D
I may start one of the walls tomorrow with multi finish.
I wouldnt want to skim the top on the same day anyway, its gonna crack like that.
Always use Uni anyway, the walls got a 5:1 the day before the base went on then 3:1 just prior to applying, its the only way the way I see it.
Thanks Matt
Sory cant vote....wheres the LPS option.
Mix of all THREE IMHO, I'm well pleased with my mix.....all the doubters that say you cant mix...........I have and love it.
Craig
Ok thanks Craig, that'd be under the softies really (LPS).
I really wanted to guage the difference between those dyed in the wool SPS fanatics and anything else really.
Matt
Sory cant vote....wheres the LPS option.
Mix of all THREE IMHO, I'm well pleased with my mix.....all the doubters that say you cant mix...........I have and love it.
Craig
ok.....I'll go with the flow.
But my vote for the bottom option means LOTS of LPS as well. ;-)
JasandJules
27-02-06, 19:52
I much prefer LPS to SPS... Hammers, Frogspawns etc..as thehy wave in the current, and you can feed them too...
i prefer a mix of sps and lps! but it doesnt matter what i like,what do you like matt?
Me, I like softies and LPS, however I also have a desire to have a number of SPS, but not a tank FULL of 'em.
I think to an extent I'm feeling its not a reef tank unless its crambed with all those that traditionally have required all the love, care and attention and $$ thrown at them that any man could muster (this may or may not be true, but tis what I used to think)
I think Aidys tank of softies looks great, but what would that look like on a bigger scale (overkill perhaps) would a tank 5' from front to back be blinding if crammed with softies or would it go down as truly beautiful and inspiring?
I have to admit, all the building works Im doing here is demoralising, and yesterday I actually thought 'sod the tank' finish the kitchen and forget it.
But I think in all honesty that was a culmination of all the works, havent had a day off basically in 3 months, and the thought of setting up a hihg-tech tank, building the room etc etc started to be a little daunting.
Im sure a tank of softies/LPS nd a number of selected SPS with a shol of Anthias and Chromis along with Emporer and shoal of Tangs will look lovley.
Just wanted others feelings.
Thats bud.
Matt
i prefer a mix of sps and lps! but it doesnt matter what i like,what do you like matt?
EnglishReefer
28-02-06, 13:31
Go for a mix you can afford to run, more sps=higer running costs and agro eg more reactor media more co2 bottles more water movement more... more... more... etc
I'd vote for a mixed tank with some sps in the best lit and most flow areas and softs and lps in whatever spaces suit in your rockscape.
FWIW
Ok, its been a steady, slow graft this week.
Been working (well a couple of days :D ) and pushing this damn extension on.
Plastering pretty much wound up and sorted, including ceiling, thought I'd post a pic or two of how things are looking now.
http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/hampshirereef/syntheprufe.jpg
Just the short section on the left side to finish plastering as you can see. Syntheprufed the floor today, still tacky, hoping to get the floor screeded tomorrow.
http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/hampshirereef/syntheprufe_cooker.jpg
Looks like a take-out tonight, this is the existing kitchen looking into the extension. The existing will be the utility room.
Nice new RangeMaster sat there with new dish-washer blocking everyting, can't even get to the sink to do the washing-up :D
Now that is progress, thought you was doing the tank last:D
http://x402.putfile.com/3/6012235077.jpg (http://www.putfile.com)
Mark:)
Now that is progress, thought you was doing the tank last
http://x402.putfile.com/3/6012235077.jpg (http://www.putfile.com)
Mark
http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/hampshirereef/smilie.jpg
Very good, now that gives me inspiration, cheers ;)
http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/hampshirereef/kitchen_fitting.jpg
Thought you might like an update since last pic.
The screed has gone down, Ive tiled the floor, ran the plumbing round, started fitting the kitchen units and at long last found a home for that damn Rangemaster.
Hope you enjoy despite the fact that the tank still isn't progressing.
All in good time.
Matt
Nice Kitchen Matt...come on loads since i last saw it
Mark :)
Nice Kitchen Matt...come on loads since i last saw it
Mark :)
Cheers mate, getting there.
As kitchens go, Im chuffed as nuts with it. Taking my time now, bit of pride in the job.
Theres no doubt though, the intention is to 'set it off' with the tank. Should look grand !!!
Matt
http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/hampshirereef/DSCF0095__600_x_450_.jpg
Kitchens come on a bit, been very busy with all of this. You can at least see now how things wil look once the tank is up and running. Newly built bathroom wall to the left.
http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/hampshirereef/DSCF0093__600_x_450_.jpg
Someones blown my garden up with a landmine methinks. Ive been playing with that digger the last three days again :D Pond excavations started to the left of pic on the bank, this'll be 2 or 3 ponds running together via a waterfall.
http://mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/hampshirereef/DSCF0092__600_x_450_.jpg
I've had an opportunity to dig out the area for the tank-room. The above picture shows where it'll be located outside and also the depth of chalk excavated for the base.
Theres been some discussion at times on here about support for tanks etc. The depth excavated and allowed for in total for this setup will be approx 12"-13" of concrete with reinforcing mesh. The area where the brick rubble is wont have the weight of tank on it, so not worried about that. The area obviously closer to the kitchen wall is where the tank'll be, so thats where the mesh wil be as well.
Enjoy
Matt
Silverreef
14-05-06, 10:28
Hi Matt,
It's about time we had an up-date on your build, show me yours and I'll show you mine:eek: .
Regards
Steve
:D :D
Steve, there isnt much to show really, but thanks for asking. The building works is still on-going. Though Ive taken a break from it though for a while, we also went away for a week to Cairo, but will hopefully get the bathroom sorted in a couple of weeks (the missus insists).
It should be after that that Im able to start the work for the fish-house. I have the foundations for it dug out. A depth of about 12" or so. Im gonna fill this with concrete with steel reinforcing and then brickwork the walls to about 3' with timber framework around to the roof line. Then blockwork for the stand etc.
But nothing to show picture-wise til then really, the other works really did take their toll, been shattered since then and not had too much energy or motivation. Although Im still going to go ahead with the plans, just things havent worked out exactly as I'd have hoped.
Pics will be put up once things change round here, 'bout a month or so. Should be nice summer project to get on with.
Matt
Yesterday, despite the rain :confused: I managed at last to start the actual work on the fish-room.
Got the floor concreted. Its at its deepest 11", immediately below where the tank will stand, with three layers of steel reinforcing embedded within it.
It doesn't look from either angle large enough to house th ewidth of the tank, but there will be a few inches either side allowance.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/llDSCF0153%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0154%20%28600%20x%20450%29%20%28450%20x%20600% 29.jpg
So now theres the brick-work to do, approx 12 or so courses to go round, allowing for the door, and then timber frame above this, then we have the fish-room !!!
The concrete block stand after that, steel lintels....ta daa
Matt
Well Done Matt :) Turned out a good job considering it was Raining like it was :eek:
Look forward to the next bit....:D
Mark
but will hopefully get the bathroom sorted in a couple of weeks (the missus insists).
Matt
Screw the bathroom, thats been put on hold
First off heres the boss, Kevin, shes still around, checking everything out.
This is in fact the unfinished wall of the outside of the fish-room.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0320%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
Some cheap-skate brickie, yours truly, the missus seems to have put herself in charge of the lens.
Today been fitting the door frame for the fish-room. As you can see Ive just about done the brickwork for this.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0319%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
Putting the brick down on top of the last layer, next to the last one you did, I think thats how its done.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0324%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
Then you knock all the snot off the edge, unfortunately theres always more there than under the brick !!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0325%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
Then you pretend the bubble's in the middle.
So, the room isnt far off being done now. The weekend may get most of the walls up to roof. Got the roof to do, electrics, water etc afterwards.
I think I'll be getting collared to finish the main house stuff before then.
Matt
Matt
Now that the main room is just about up Ive had to relook at the dimensions of the tank.
It in hindsight seems that the modified 5' x 4' is too large for the room. It'll go in there, but just seems toooo big for practical reasons. Mainly access to the front of the tank from the back, there really isnt enough room along the sides to be able to get to the front comfortably. I think.
Unless anyone has any ideas about how this problem could be surmounted. At first I thought I might have to build some sort of cradle above the tank to enable me to get to the front, crawling fashion, it seems doubtful that way now. Too much aggro, bit dodgy too, crawling across to get to the front.
Anyone got any ideas, if not, its gonna have to be 4' x 4' and not 5' (from front to back) x 4' ?
Matt
Reef bloke
02-06-06, 18:51
Looks like hard work mate!Hats off to ya and all the best with the build.Cant wait to see it finished!
.
Anyone got any ideas ?
Matt
what about a scaffold bridge. 2inch pipe constrution with a ply table on top. must have 2 inches spare each side. just slide over when you need to, ahem, get on top. then maybe have the lights on pulleys like tuans tank so they can lift out the way.
what about a scaffold bridge. 2inch pipe constrution with a ply table on top. must have 2 inches spare each side. just slide over when you need to, ahem, get on top. then maybe have the lights on pulleys like tuans tank so they can lift out the way.
I was figuring something, regarding the lights, along the lines of Tuans setup. Makes bulb changing cleaning etc so much easier as they'd be that much more accessible.
Its the design I guess thats kinda throwing me at the mo Scoob. Theres room in there from front to back to house 5', although it'd make it that much more cramped obviously. The room is there. But, it seems all a little bit too much if your having to construct some sort of platform, only then bring able to hang yourself from the top of it, also dodgy and underpants soiling kinda scary :eek::eek:.
Imagine if you fall in !!!
There must be someone that might be able to expand on Scoobs idea or something entirely original.
I was thinking mkaybe fix something like those hangers you get on the underground for steadying yourself whne the rides a bit jolty. having something like two or three of them hanging from the ceiling and just steadying myself with those.
Ideas !!! ???? PLEASE..!!
You did ask .......
Kevin's job as site foreman will be finished once the job is done and the tank is in so ........
http://ypcommando.com/images/scuba_cat.jpg
what about having no gaps either side of the tank but instead fill the gaps with an inner brick wall, bringing it to 2 inches above the tank height giving the impression the tank is sunk ino a brick floor, then you could lay 2/3/4 cut to size lengths of ladder across (store easily) and build a proper stage. can't fall in if the stage spans the whole tank in all directions.
if not LTD's idea is a riot.
ooh what about rope monkey bars??? instead of the underground grab handles. although the grab handles are a good idea they fix you to a single point above. stretches of rope going from one side to the other mean you have many points to grab and if taught enough, you wont lose any stability you'd have had with the underground handles.
if not LTD's idea is a riot.
Thats not what Kevin thinks, she just seen the pic and confirms in no uncertain terms her dislike for water, even if she gets to dress in kinky latex :D
I just dunno, can't make my mind up. The idea to surround the tank is good. There'll be gallons of space underneath, just havent been able to build the tank room as big as really wanted.
4' x 4' is big, but Id love that extra foot, although it wouldnt be aquascaped, so therefore in actual fact no need to worry about being able to reach right the way across. It'd be nice to be able to have a couple of feet totally free for the fish at the front.
I may build a false tank first to measure it all up and see.
Or am I worrying over nothing.
Is there any REAL need to be able to BE CERTAIN you can get to the front?
Matt
that's what i was about to post.
i'm none to bothered about internal access, sure it will be a bitch at first but once done, provided you have a magfloat at the front, how often do you need access, apart from a seaweed clip (can go at the side) and cleaning, i haven't touched the bottom of my tank for years.
go for the extra foot, personally i'd rather deal with the 'i'm stupid stupid stupid' than the 'what if what if what if'.
simon garratt
03-06-06, 00:15
matty, if you can, Build youself a ledge at the back of the tank (level with the top of the stand) that you can stand on to put you at a higher vantage point. this will make life alot easyer and you can reach a hell of alot further forward if your waist is able to bend across the tank rather than your stomack being pressed up against the glass from a floor level position.
Either way though, at 5ft front to back, your gonna be pushing it to get right to the front.
As in my case, i wouldnt worry too much as its an area you'll probably keep clear anyway.
Regards
Si.
simon garratt
03-06-06, 00:22
Just as an addition Matty, have you had a quote on the tank glass yet. Greenburg glass (behing Dockgate 20) have quoted me £635 for my glass, thats a 6.5 x 3.5 x 30" deep. all the brace bars weir etc, double base, front, back and the sides in 15mm. and every single edge ground. including delivery, ive just got to build it on site.
regards
Si.
Thanks guys.
Was getting a little frustrated regarding feed-back, thought I'd been forgotten :D:D
I got to really look into this now, planning etc, layout particularly, you know placement for top-up tank, calcium reactor, skimmer etc etc
Si, thats a good price you got there, in total Id say about the same amount of glass as mine is likely to take.
We spoke if you remember regarding tank construction on the phone a couple of months back Si, how does that stand now?
Matt
simon garratt
03-06-06, 01:25
Not a problem Matt. if you want me to put you in touch with the guy at greenburgh i can give you thier number. and i can come round and stick it all together for you when your ready. (only takes a day to be honest).
regards
Si.
Not a problem Matt. if you want me to put you in touch with the guy at greenburgh i can give you thier number. and i can come round and stick it all together for you when your ready. (only takes a day to be honest).
regards
Si.
That sounds like a good idea.
Cheers.
Matt
Hi Matty
coming on nice, another monster in the making,
just a quick post, as you know my tank is 4 foot high and 4 foot from front
to back, believe me you can not reach the front glass no way near,
i have worked out a system of opening a tap and emptying half of the water, and getting into the tank
start putting your corals at the bottom of the tank and working your way
up emptying less tank volume each time,
not only that if you get in to the tank you can pile rock up and make some fantastic aquascapes,
i would scrap the idea of hanging over the tank !!! if you dont believe me come and have a look at the top of my tank it will scare the hell out of you,
dean
Thanks Dean.
Bearing everything in mind, heres what going ot happen.
Originally I wanted it to be 5' x 5', then I downsized to 5' x 4', well I ain't down sizing anymore :D
It does seem rather a monstorus undertaking at times and I was beginning to think that the 5' x 4' was just too big, too cumbersome and too daunting. But I do want that extra depth from front to back, I think it'll make a big difference for the aquascaping, for the fish and the perspective when you look in from the front.
So, what Im gonna do, is build it in position and see what happens...:D
There will be a platform like Tuan has at the level of the base of the tank. Im sure coupled with the fact that Im only going to aquascape the rear 3', so as to allow plenty of room for the fish, access isnt oging ot be as big a problem as I was beginning to think it might.
It should look something like this. The front of the tank is to the left of this pic, the rear therefore to the right, here you can see the platform
http://mysite.orange.co.uk/hampshirereef/uploader.jpg
Thanks for all help, Scoob, Si and Dean. Kevin says hi LTD :p
Theres gonna be 4' in height under the tank, so plenty of room for sump etc.
Thought I'd put a couple of pics up to show the progress, yes it's slow, of things progressing.
Firstly, the stand is finished, solid concrete blocks, on their sides, with 2 sets of steel bars set at regular intervals to support the two sumps that are to be installed underneath the main tank in addition to the skimmer.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/../uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0344%20%28450%20x%20600%29.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0345%20%28450%20x%20600%29.jpg
Had a phone call yesterday from S.T.M, the 4# 10,000 litre per hour closed loop pumps have arrived and are in the post. Got in today, CityLink have been, going to collect them this evening at 7.00 :D:D
Just so much to do here, the garden hasn't been touched yet, its still a building site, still not touched the bathroom, you can see where my priorities lie :D thank God Sal is so patient.
Matt
looking good matty, bet that stand is beginning to make it hit home now.
keep the updates coming :D
looking good matty, bet that stand is beginning to make it hit home now.
keep the updates coming :D
Cheers Scoob.
Yea, when it first went up the height of it was what shook me at first, as the floor level in the shed was 3 brick courses below normal floor height and the end-product will be about 8" above kitchen work-top height too.
Got to get the 3 RSJs in there next theyre 6" deep, about an inch, probably 19mm, of ply and 2 inches of polystyrene, then its at the right height.
It would be moving faster, just didnt allow for my tax bill at the end of this month. Even Gordon comes before my tank, but my accountant has said I could split the payment between this month and next......:D:D
Oh baby, 4 of these beauts turned up today :eek: :eek: from STM, 40,000 litres output in total
;) ;)
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0352 (600 x 450).jpg
Great pumps Matty. It's good to see you are progressing. It is going to be awesome.
Tony
Any updates Matt?
Looking impressive so far :D
Any updates Matt?
Looking impressive so far :D
I'm afraid the bathroom needed to be done, so no, nothing of late, unfortunately.
We're off to Taba in 4 weeks also so nothing will be done until after we get back from that either. I aso had my tax bill to pay :eek: :eek: which has slowed things a tad.
The plan here is to get back from Taba middle of October and start things rolling again. Ideally I'd like to have the tank in by Xmas, need to speak to SiG and t'other Simon about that, and then start moving things over afterwards. There are other things that need considering regarding the build apart from just the tank, I spoke to Rob at MarineLighting in the week, prices etc, but its on hold for a short while, Im actually appreciating my existing tank at the mo, just changed the lighting on that to 14,000K's and also altered my Calcium supplementation scheme, so Im still here, just the big build has had to 'step down' for a short period.
Matt
good things come to those who wait :)
looking forward to seeing these updates when you get round to them!!
petergillett
07-01-07, 01:26
How's things going Matty?
Ah, tis a slow job thisun !
Things just havent gone according to plan.
I just re-read my last post, I dont know what I was thinking about getting things rolling again after the trip toTaba, I havent stopped on the house and garden since then, and nothing looks like its changed there !!
Shall we say April for tank ?? :D:D
GOTAREEFTOKEEP
07-01-07, 11:02
How long are you guessing it'll take you to have it completed ??
Think this is going to be a great tank, and cant wait to see the finished article.
Matt
How long are you guessing it'll take you to have it completed ??
Think this is going to be a great tank, and cant wait to see the finished article.
Matt
Id take a guess, as finished finished finished, as opposed to finished, nearly almost, kind of, as being mid summer.
Money is a bit of an issue as the mo, tax bill end of the month, lots of stuff still going on around the house which is eating money, tiling the kitchen this weekend, and I NEVER cancel booking holidays, off to Malta in late Spring.
Hey Matt,
What is your hole looking like now then? Any updates for us?
Nick ;-)
Hey Matt,
What is your hole looking like now then?
Nick ;-)
Last time I said that to anyone was some bleached blonde tart in a nightclub at about 2 in the morning after far too many dodgy sherberts and she lumped round the back of the head with her handbag.
As for my fishtank, no change.........plans always changing here, too many things going on, but........it will happen SOMEDAY :thumbsup::thumbsup:
any updates yet matty?
I'll try and remember to post some piccies tomorrow :laugh: :laugh:
yeah it's tomorrow, pull your finger out!
Ohhh, s'always rush rush rush with you Scoob :cool: :D
Ok, here's a some pictures
http://nursing.yale.edu/About/graphics/ysn_in_pictures.jpg
ag ag ag ag vewwy funny vewwy funny!!!!
now get your camera out and take some snaps of your graft.
(unless you know the steven seagal impersonator on the right. if he does the kung-kwondo-jistu thingy then just take your time mate, no rush)
different..........................?:laugh:
This ones for you Scoob, a picture of my sump, at last............... don't say I dont do anything for you :laugh: :laugh:
http://www.carbibles.com/images/wheretheoilis.jpg
Actually I hung the door on the fishhouse today, progress, I was looking at the block stand I built and thinking about the knocking of the brick-work down between the kitchen and the fishroom when the day comes, thats kinda worrying to be honest. Its all about carrying out that decision and the consequences; i.e. there will not be a kitchen as we have come to know it, there'll be NO going back then......
Okay okay guys, been sat here feeling guilty, should have posted some snaps I guess, even though theres no sign of water. Im a busy bloke :D and have my work cut out in the garden. I just COULDN'T do anything more in the tank-room before at least trying ot make the garden something to be getting on with.
But at the end of the day its just taking a long time.
Could a mod change the name of the thread to 'Matts long-time tank'? :laugh:
So, below, the block built stand. Ive decided Im going to tile the floor, and line any outside brick walls with ply, to help to mount any pipe-work evenly, so ots not influenced by any brick-work fluctuations.
I had insulated the roof but have found as my R.O unit for my existing tank is situated out here that condensation was forming between the insulation and the ply roof. Not good. So have removed that, but am not sure how this'll stand to cold at winter time.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2006Q1/DSCF0344%20%28450%20x%20600%29.jpg
Anyway, this is what I've been doing over the summer.
Ive bought in a shed-load literally of railway sleepers and made a retaining wall because the soil level in the garden had risen by about 5' due to the excavations. Below is the start of the retaining wall from the back-door heading away into the garden.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/Copy%20of%20DSCF0128%20%28450%20x%20600%29.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0128%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
I had to build this second shed at the far end of the garden, as the fish-room was initially being used to house all my tools etc, which couldn't continue.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0133%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/../uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0132%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/../uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0134%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
Steps up to the garden from the patio area also made from railway sleeprs, I need 3 more to finish these and about another 7 more to finish a few other bits and bobs throughout the garden.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0129%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0130%20%28450%20x%20600%29.jpg
Fish-room from above the steps, with new door and slabs both sorted this last weekend.
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0131%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
Yes, I know its not aquatic, but its like the bit you get at the airport before your scuba diving holiday :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
Matt
eh, not bad, pretty damn fine actually. love the railway sleeper steps, once you have flowers growing up either side of that it will look real nice :)
looking at the last photo, i think you may have room for one more small extention! :D
THERE'S GLASS THERE'S GLASS!!!!! HEAVENS ABOVE THERE'S GLASS....
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0134%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
excellent ground work there matey, soon be ready for salty stuff!!!
THERE'S GLASS THERE'S GLASS!!!!! HEAVENS ABOVE THERE'S GLASS....
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0134%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
excellent ground work there matey, soon be ready for salty stuff!!!
*Ahem* thats the old green-house :o
still glass dammit!!!!!
anyways, this pic has a salt bucket in it!!!
http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2007Q2/DSCF0129%20%28600%20x%20450%29.jpg
Johnymajors
13-08-07, 20:30
Friggin Eck Mat :eek: you certainly aint doin things by half are ya!!
Thats a hell of a transformation on the garden side of things, but come on damnit we want to see some of the salty stuff on that stand of yours!!!!
Friggin Eck Mat :eek: you certainly aint doin things by half are ya!!
Thats a hell of a transformation on the garden side of things, but come on damnit we want to see some of the salty stuff on that stand of yours!!!!
Aye :cool:
Just a quick note fellas, we're going away in 2 weeks for a 2 week holiday to Egypt and on return this particular project will be...............
on the move
:clap: :clap: :clap:
The time for talking is over.
On my return the actual build of the tank will take place, a few final decisions need to be made etc, but all systems will be go.
:thanks:
bout bloody time, you started this before i started mine and mines been running for 16 months now :D :D
have a good hols
Yea I know, but I built a house since then too :D
bout bloody time, you started this before i started mine and mines been running for 16 months now :D :D
have a good hols
Yea I know, but I built a house since then too :D
fair enough :D
reminds me, i still havent done my kitchen yet :o
... hmm, given up on waiting for the building work, so rethought the size of my 'new' tank. When I say 'new', I mean I wish I could afford it already :(!
. good luck on your new tank
matty, 2 1/2 years on... have you got this tank running yet?!
good thread cant wait to see the finished product!
you may have a long wait, he started it before i started mine, that was back in 2005!
Hey Muzzy, I was thinking of you today, Gary Johnson and all that.
Did you see the game? I thought we played better than Hull, but just didnt manage to get the ball in the back of the net.
Anyway, back to the tank. No I havent done anything really, I was going to be getting on with it this year, but my Mum died very suddenly earlier this year. She was diagnosed with cancer (lung, liver, bowel and ovarian) and died 3 days later. So things were put on hold. Times were difficult to say the least.
However, my Mums death has changed my financial situation quite dramatically and this will enable to proceed without any financial constraints.
I drastically underestimated the amount of time, work and money involved with ALL the building projects Ive been doing around here and that is of course another reason why I havent been able to complete the tank.
Matt
hi matt!
sorry to hear of your mum, 3 days from diagnosis to death - that must have been tough :(
as a yeovilite, i was kind of glad that bristol city didnt go up, they poached our manager which i believe resulted in yeovil staying in the 1st division and not getting promotion last year. it could of been us fighting for premiership places this year - ok, i dream!
theres always next year mate, but i wouldnt be surprised if GJ is poached again this time by a premiership club.
He is going to manage a big club in the next 5 years I believe, maybe even England one day, hey he cant do worse than most of the ones we've had of late
Yes, it was tough, but thanks for your thoughts.
My missus and me went see her on the Sunday, just to have lunch with her. Ok, she hadnt been well, but was just complaining of back-ache. Who'd have thought whislt sitting eating lunch with her that less than a week later she'd be dead.
She had a scan on the Monday, the day after we had lunch with her due to her back pains; and the results came through the following day, widespread cancer.
I phoned her once we knew she knew and she said 'Well, Matt, its a lovely day, Ive got a cup of tea, the sun is shining and theres nothing to be scared of' !!! Such courage.
Her doctor told me and my two sisters on the Wednesday that she would either fight it or give in. We were told that it was about quality rather than quantity. We took her out for a walk on the Wednesday and she said she had never been so happy !!! because me and my two sisters were with her and that was all she wanted.
Anyway, on the Friday night, she died at home in her bed with the three of us sat with her. She slowly slipped into unconsiousness after telling us all that she had had enough and wanted to go. That she loved us, was proud of us.
It was such a dreadfully bad night, and really hard for a good while after.
The undertakers were great but theres nothing like watching them remove your mothers corpse from her bedroom down the stairs and into the back of a black car and drive her way, dead.
Sorry to go on, it gets to me often still.
Matt
no idea what to say to that, thankfully ive never been in such a situation, one day no doubt I will be.
At least you can take comfort from the fact you were all together.
To die alone is not something i'd want for myself
Matt thats tragic, been through it myself it does get better in time .. Although you cannot replace loved ones.
I know you dont know me from adam but i know what your going through atm, Time is a great healer to a certain degree.
Tim
Yes, it was tough, but thanks for your thoughts.
My missus and me went see her on the Sunday, just to have lunch with her. Ok, she hadnt been well, but was just complaining of back-ache. Who'd have thought whislt sitting eating lunch with her that less than a week later she'd be dead.
She had a scan on the Monday, the day after we had lunch with her due to her back pains; and the results came through the following day, widespread cancer.
I phoned her once we knew she knew and she said 'Well, Matt, its a lovely day, Ive got a cup of tea, the sun is shining and theres nothing to be scared of' !!! Such courage.
Her doctor told me and my two sisters on the Wednesday that she would either fight it or give in. We were told that it was about quality rather than quantity. We took her out for a walk on the Wednesday and she said she had never been so happy !!! because me and my two sisters were with her and that was all she wanted.
Anyway, on the Friday night, she died at home in her bed with the three of us sat with her. She slowly slipped into unconsiousness after telling us all that she had had enough and wanted to go. That she loved us, was proud of us.
It was such a dreadfully bad night, and really hard for a good while after.
The undertakers were great but theres nothing like watching them remove your mothers corpse from her bedroom down the stairs and into the back of a black car and drive her way, dead.
Sorry to go on, it gets to me often still.
Matt
:(
That must of been terrible Matt. So sorry to hear about it, at least she went happy eh?
Ben
:(
That must of been terrible Matt. So sorry to hear about it, at least she went happy eh?
Ben
Yes Ben, thanks, that is true.
She also had no pain, we made sure of that.
And we all had a chance to say what needed to be said, from one to another. The moments we spent together, alone, were so necessary and important. Kinda allowed us to let her go at that moment in time.
Matt
Matt so sorry to read that account of why the tank was delayed etc.
As said before time is a healer.
Take care, good luck.
Jungleking
25-05-08, 18:43
Sorry to hear what happened. I had an Aunt who died of cancer last year but was diagnosed a couple of years before then. It's heartbreaking when someone you care about dies. It's right to take a break to heal. Doing somethng you love can help to.
Will keep you in our prayers.
wookie7062
26-05-08, 16:10
I am sitting unable to hold back a tear. Your story of having lunch with your Mum brought back some memories of my Mum's sudden death. Time is a great healer and after a while all the bad feelings are replaced by happy recollections. Sorry for your loss
Simon
simon garratt
26-05-08, 21:49
Hi Matt, long time no speak.
understand totally where you are comming from (my mum died late last year with Emphasema)..so its not surprising things went on hold (priorities and all that)..
just wanted to pass on my condolences and wish you the best of luck with the tank build..
You have my number if you need any help.
Kind regards
Si.
Hi Matt, long time no speak.
understand totally where you are comming from (my mum died late last year with Emphasema)..so its not surprising things went on hold (priorities and all that)..
just wanted to pass on my condolences and wish you the best of luck with the tank build..
You have my number if you need any help.
Kind regards
Si.
Simon, I appreciate your comments, thankyou.
My puter died last week and everything on it, so NO! I dont have your number :D
Could you PM me it please, with your number? I been thinking about trying to get in contact with you, for this build etc.
Thanks.
Matt
simon garratt
27-05-08, 03:13
Pm sent dude..
:)
Si.
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