starboard thickness

The thickness does not matter as long as it's laying against glass and not silicone. I think I left like a 1/2" margin around all of the edges and filled it in with black silicone. I had purchased 10.1 oz tubes for $6.50 a tube about a year ago, but that company does not sell that size in black anymore. Make sure and buy the 10.1 oz tubes and use a caulking gun to put it in. Squeezing it out of those little foil tubes is HORRIBLE for that much silicone. Big Al's Online sells this (http://www.bigalsonline.com/Fish_Maintenance-Equipment_Silicone-Sealant_Bondaflex-Sil-100-GP-Silicone-Sealant_9083905_82.html?tc=fish) which I can't imagine they would sell if it wasn't aquarium/reef safe, but you never know. I would research it before buying it.

I've read that if it states "100% silicone" and "food safe", then you should be OK. Many that just say "100% silicone" still have additives like fungicides to prevent mold growth and are not recommended to use. I always use the All-Glass or Perfecto brand stuff just to be 100% safe, but I believe there are cheaper options available if you look for "food safe" stuff. If you're OK taking that chance, then you should check at your local hardware store as shipping would kill the price online.

--AJ

 

+1  Me too! 
Here's a decent price... http://www.amazon.com/GordonGlass-Black-Aquarium-Silicone-Sealant/dp/B003PNXU1K/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=industrial&qid=1296446068&sr=8-7
Not familiar with the brand, but most places seem to be out of the 10.1 oz tubes in black.  You could get 3 tubes for about $33 shipped.
--AJ

 

dumb question, what is starboard? link? pic? Thanks!

 

Starboard is the material that plastic cutting board is made of. It's safe to use in a reef tank, does not scratch as easy as acrylic and is also less expensive. It comes in a variety of colors as well. Google is your friend...do a search on something like starboard sheet or something like that and you should be able to find more information on the exact material specifications if you're interested.

--AJ

 

I think Webers Paint in Marion still sells the big tubes of black aquarium safe silicone. If they dont I'm sure they will order them for you, and they are reasonable priced as well.