Can normal aquarium silicone be used above the water level on a live tank?

[AndyEllard]

I will soon be moving some of my tanks on to some new racking. I need to move the Jewel internal filter back to the right hand side of the tank which is siliconed in place. My question is that as I dont have anywhere else to hold the fish while the silicone cures for 2 days, would it be ok to use normal aquatic silicone and just drop the level of the tank so that the silicone used is above the water level? I'm not sure if the fumes could cause a problem.

I could get some Gold Label silicone as this states it is safe to use underwater, but I already have normal aquatic silicone at hand.

[/URL]"]http://http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/GOLD-LABEL-ONE-SHOT-75ML-AQUARIUM-POND-SILICONE-SEALER-SEALENT-ULTRA-STRONG-/330684553765?pt=UK_Pet_Supplies_Fish&hash=item4cfe55da25[/URL]

 

[scatz]

I would guess at no, even when resealing a tank i've always been told to leave it for a good week or so to cure properly

 

[bigbird]

i would have to agree with Sctaz on that one. Even when I build caves etc, I let it cure for at least 3-4 times longer than it states on the tube. cheers jk :thumbup:

 

[rickyjjuk]

Hi

I have used aqua mate before and it says it ok after 24hrs. It does also say after filling test ph as product liberates acetic acid on cure. I have used it to install dividers in tanks but usually they are empty and I leave for 2-3 days before filling. I have never used on a tank whilst still in use. But would the condensation from the tank also not effect how it cures??? I would have to say I wouldn't risk it personally.

Regards

Ricky

 

[Joby]

I once had a bracing bar go on a 3 foot which made the front very wobbly :fr: I also had no spare tank for the occupants so dropped the water a few inches to make sure no water splashed onto it and used aquarium sealant to re-seal the bracing. All fish were ok

 

[AndyEllard]

Thanks guys & gals,

I have ordered some of the Gold Label silicone shown in the link above, which will use as it states it can be applied under water and is fish safe. It's just a shame it costs a lot more but if it keeps the fish safe then it is a price worth paying.

 

[Lornek8]

Thanks guys & gals,

I have ordered some of the Gold Label silicone shown in the link above, which will use as it states it can be applied under water and is fish safe. It's just a shame it costs a lot more but if it keeps the fish safe then it is a price worth paying.

Being safe to use underwear and fish safeonly applies to cured product. During the curing process is what you need to worry about.