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This hood can accommodate a hanging filter and fluorescent lights.

1. Measure the length and breadth of your tank and build a rectangular box about 5mm, (depending on the side of the tank, reduce for a smaller tank) larger on all the sides, so that it will slip over the top of the tank.
2. Note that the back piece is placed horizontally — this gives a place to attach the hinges for the lid and keeps the back open for pipes, filters and cables.
3. Cut the wood blocks to size. Glue them on the inside of the box, about 5mm from the bottom on three sides. Note that the block attached to the horizontal plank at the back needs to be placed vertically and should reach down to the same level as the other blocks. There blocks support the hood on the tank top.
4. The blocks may need to be positioned slightly lower or higher to hide the water line. An alternate method is to glue a strip of moulding to the bottom of the box.
5. Cut out the lid using the 16mm wood, slightly larger than the box. Attach the wood mouldings to the front and two sides of the lid.
6. Paint the inside of the box and lid with white paint to maximise light reflection.
7. Apply a finish of your choice to the outside of the hood.
8. Attach the lid to the box using the hinges.
9. Attach the fluorescent casings to the inside of the lid and insert the tubes

Materials: 

Wood of your choice:
20mm x 180mm for the side boards 16mm for the lid
4 square blocks (25mm x 25mm x 60mm)
Hinges
Wood mouldings (25mm wide) You will need to measure the size of the completed box to get the correct length
Wood glue and nails
Fluorescent casings with correct tubes (work out according to tank volume). Your local pet shop may sell a complete system
Varnish or finishing of your choice
White PVA

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