Hiya "Thumper" (my childhood "nickname" also..)
Reinforcing what Craig says earlier...
Couple of recent threads running in the DIY forum on sumps, esp. on building of.
I am setting up a new tank also and have pretty much decided to build own after spending lots of time looking around and seeing what they cost and how easy they can me put together with a little, glue, glass or plastic. Have a large "rubbermaid" tub from Lowe's right now. - Basically adequate for just a sstarting sump - not for long run however if you want a refugium, etc - basically a matter of size for me.
Doing yourself lets you customize to meet your own needs (size, configuration, etc) - plus you get lots of self satisfaction in self interaction with the system, which is a big part of this hobby for me.
Nice to have another PNW "poster" about. Was getting lonely.
Good luck, keep us posted with progress.
Regards,
OmarD
