Basic DIY Stand Calculator

Jun 14, 2026

Fish Fan

Master of Disaster

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woodfirefighter said:
Ok, I've looking around at all of the different threads of larger stand being created... I'm building a stand for a 72x30x25H tank (235g I believe), glass tank. It will be attached to the wall in the back with benches on either side (kind of like a built in). With the 30" width I was going to double the front red beam, put middle brace in back and front (removable for front). Can I get away with 2x6 since my span is only 3'?

How about the 30" width too? I haven't seen too many add a third red beam in the middle. I do plan on adding cross bracing to the top as well.

I'd like to say, Welcome to Reef2Reef!

#WelcometoR2R

@RocketEngineer knows the calculations and can tell you for sure, but I believe you can simply use his guidelines for the side-to-side horizontal rails for your front-to-back horizontal rails. So yes, I believe 2x6's will work

I'd also like to remind everyone that any center brace, no matter how necessary or how annoying, can be made to be removable

Best of luck with your build!

HOW MUCH DOES A FISH’S FEEDING REQUIREMENTS AFFECT YOUR STOCKING DECISIONS?

A lot! - I avoid fish that require frequent or specialized feeding
Votes: 18 34.0%
Quite a bit, but an automatic feeder can change my answer
Votes: 7 13.2%
It depends on whether my nutrient export can handle it
Votes: 8 15.1%
It depends on how badly I want the fish
Votes: 11 20.8%
Not much. I’m willing to adjust my routine
Votes: 9 17.0%
Not at all. Feeding demands don’t limit my stocking choices
Votes: 8 15.1%
I usually learn about the demanding feeding schedule after buying the fish!
Votes: 2 3.8%
I haven’t really considered this before
Votes: 4 7.5%
Something else (see my comments in the thread)
Votes: 2 3.8%