Tank Stand Plans

[BfishLpond78]

So i'm in the process of planning my new build. Tank is a 150 gallon 60x24x24.

Next item on the list is the stand, my main concern will be to have access to the sump area, I'm a larger guy, 17 years of football ~ and I don't fit into tight spaces all that well.

First question,

1. Would I be able to get away without having a center brace on the front of the tank? (I'm not very builder savvy, but friends are, but i'd like to have a little more knowledge)
2. I'd like it to be a little taller, maybe around 40 inches for better viewing I'm 6'2, What size lumber should I go with?
3. Does anyone have any schematics/drawings?
4. Anyone know of any good links to stand builds I could steal ideas from.
5. If you could do your stand over again, what changes would you make?

Thanks again,

Happy Reefing.

 

[heathd.hd]

Look into metal! Gives you more space. Maybe even panels that come off for access.

 

[heathd.hd]

https://www.reef2reef.com/forums/showthread.php?t=167992

 

[BfishLpond78]

Show me your cool tank stand!

I was just checking that one out! Didn't know if there were any others!

Thanks, now i have it bookmarked!

 

[heathd.hd]

There's a bunch of stand builds in diy! Good luck and am looking forward to seeing your progress!

 

[BfishLpond78]

Thanks! I'll keep a look out, hope to get started in the next few weeks. Need to stick to the slow and steady routine vs. getting all excited and just throwing something together.

 

[heathd.hd]

Very much so. We all end up wanting things differnt on our tanks no matter what we do though. Lol. Wish hind sight was 20\20

 

[Culater94]

Recommend 2x6 all around for the base, you then skin it how you like. I can send you plans, or there is a thread on another forum. You can stop by and check out mine, it is still in the RAW form, not skinned. I did mine a bit taller also. It is solid, although to me, no such thing as overbuilt when you consider the alternative, and the damage water can do from a blow out.

 

[gar732]

Hey mike I've built a few stands over the years, if you need a hand let me know I'd be happy to help out. I'd do a 2x6 support across the front and you'll be good without a center support. I'd say take a look a some actual furniture and cabinets and steal ideas from there. So many different ways you can go from modern to traditional. The stand I was going to make for the 150 was under lit by LEDs to make it look like it floating.

 

[BfishLpond78]

Thank Gabe!

What are your thoughts on an oversized stand? tank is only 5 wide, but possibly make it 6 to add more room downstairs for additional items?

Wow...floating ehhh...I'm thinking more modern vs fancy woodwork.

 

[760mason]

If I could do it all over again I would go with a metal stand.

 

[Chetrod]

Mine is made of Strictly 3/4" Plywood No 2x4's 2x6's or 2x8's as long as it's built correctly it will withstand a bunch of weight. (K.I.S.S.) Think of what you want it to look like in the end and the space you need. 40" tall is just fine. Depending on your build will determine the need for a center brace although, I do recommend one. If I could do it all over again I would of used a lighter stain color and sprayed the clear coat instead of using a brush. Good luck on your build. My stand has been holding my tank up for 13 years now.

 

[TJ's Reef]

If you have friends who are offering with the skills to build cabinet quality absolutely take them up on it. Once a tank is set up there is usually never a time to redo one. I built my custom Cherry stand for a 60x24x20 125g with lots of access and used no 2x4's or 2x6's. 1x3 or 1x4 dimension hardwood is a much better choice all the way around. You can see most of designs in my build thread linked in my signature below.

Cheers, Todd

 

[Jepsep]

My stand on a 150xh, a little overkill, but overkill is underrated....outside had a 3 piece 'shell' held in place with magnets, I like it a lot.

 

[captainsaquarium]

Looks awesome

 

[adam_Lawrence]

Here's my stand I used 2"x2"x.25" square tubing and it's 44 inches tall. It's 220 gallon. Than I used 3 inch cedar slot and grove and nailed them to a 3/4 inch osb. I can take off the front and sides just use velcro to hold it in place.

 

[BfishLpond78]

Thanks for all the great advice guys. Those stands look great. Waiting hear back on a few builders!