I used to use lighting diffusers, "egg crate", for covers. they keep the fish from jumping out but don't get scaled and algaed up and block the light. It comes in 2' by 4' sheets and is really easy to cut with tin snips or similar tools. You can use the scraps to make fish "caves" or plant anchors. you don't have to make holes for airlines because it is all holes.Lids/tops
What do y'all do for aquarium lids. I'm constantly fighting with them.
Marcey
Don't put tanks on or near the floor. Allow enough height to siphon water from the bottom tanks. You will need to siphon water no matter what kind of system you have.
@thefishlady Will they be in the way of the construction crew? Will they even let you in to the house during construction? That looks like quite a few tanks to work around. How many fish do you have and what kind that need to be moved. If they are not in the construction area, you could put up a plastic curtain. There will be dust from the construction. Can you even cover your tanks. Will the power be cut off. You might need to make some hard decisions. Find someone to take you fish, Sell you fish and shrimp. Most of your fish can be replaced. It is not a fun thing to do. I have shut my fish room down twice due to health issues. I did keep water in my tanks and I kept a few fish. I also have baby sit fish in my tanks twice. It just worked out that I had room at the time. If you could find someone you were friends with that could babysit your fish in their home.
Good questions. I think I have it worked out for construction. It won't be easy but it's only for 3-4 weeks. (It's been delayed so I don't have the benefit of the warmer weather 😔). I'll let ya know what worked and what did when it's done.