Stand Build

[Adam Picard]

Hello,

So I decided I'm going to build a stand for my first tank as this way it will help save me some cash in expenses. Ill post some picks of the design and the build as I go.

I was just wondering what would you guys recomend using for finishing the top (where the tank will sit) and the sides/doors before I get into cutting the wood.

Adam

 

[Burch01]

I chose to do the same thing for my 75 gallon tank. I used 2x4's with 3/4" plywood for the top and bottom shelf and then used a good quality oak plywood for the front facing. In the area where the tank sits I left the ply wood exposed and then used the oak plywood to cover the areas around the tank. I am thinking about adding a 1/4" foam pad under the tank so that the bottom of the tank is firmly seated and level. I also pre-stained the oak plywood before I tacked it into place to keep the smell down in the house LOL. You can see my design here https://www.livingreefs.com/75-gallon-reef-tank-build-scratch-t36453.html. I found that google sketch up was a good design tool that helped me picture what my design would look like and what dimensions of material I needed. Good Luck with your build.

 

[Adam Picard]

So just a quick update got all my wood purchased and started making some cuts will post pics tomorrow if the weather is permiting for me to finish my final cuts

 

[Dana42078]

make sure that bish is LEVEL!

 

[Adam Picard]

Of course. Measure twice cut once lever three times then assemble

 

[Adam Picard]

Just thought I would pass on my dementions to start off. The stand will be holding a 65gal tank, the top of the stand is 50" x 14" with a total stand hight of 40".

There is a lower shelf built into it at 44" x 8"

I may have to do some modifying to the bottom shelf tho.

 

[sen5241b]

You might think about using bolts instead of nails.

 

[Adam Picard]

You might think about using bolts instead of nails.

I was planning on using screws for all of it. You really think I need to go to bolts?

Also Changed up the design a bit its now 50" x 14" bottom shelf and 56" x 20" top shelf

 

[arkansasboy]

I used mostly screws on mine. I used 16 penney nails only on the braces and it is rock solid. I am curious though about the height. I am in no way an expert but 40" seems a little high. Maybe its because I am only 5' 9"!

 

[Adam Picard]

So I modified the height to 36" total........here are some pics of what I got done today.

 

[Dana42078]

lookin good....wanna build me a stand for a 45g cube ;)

 

[Adam Picard]

lookin good....wanna build me a stand for a 45g cube ;)

Thanks

Picking up the stain and the final sheeting tonight should have it ready for the tanks by tomorrow night at the latest

 

[sen5241b]

The nice thing about bolts is that if you ever need to take it apart and move it -it might be easier.

 

[Burch01]

Looks good so far!! Can't wait to see how it turns out. By the way, what type of plywood/sheathing material did you decide to use for the front and top?

 

[arkansasboy]

Thanks

Picking up the stain and the final sheeting tonight should have it ready for the tanks by tomorrow night at the latest

Are you planning on putting some polyurethane on it after staining?

 

[Adam Picard]

Ok so its full assembled minus the side and front panels will work on those after the tank is up and running, Will be putting a clear coat on tomorrow after the stair dries over night tonight.

 

[Adam Picard]

Looks good so far!! Can't wait to see how it turns out. By the way, what type of plywood/sheathing material did you decide to use for the front and top?

I used 1/2" plywood for the top and sheeted it with 1/8" Venier plywould.(I think thats what its called lol cost me $20 a sheet) all of it is stained With a dark stain and will be clear coated tonight.

 

[Adam Picard]

So I finished the Stand tonight except for the sides and front those will go on after the tank is up and running.

 

[Burch01]

Looks great so far!!!!

 

[Adam Picard]

Thanks Burch, Should have the tank on it by tomorrow afternoon I hope