- Joined
- Feb 13, 2018
- Messages
- 80
- Reaction score
- 33
I am a newbie (no saltwater setup yet) in the research phase. I am tempted to purchase the Red Sea Reefer 170 or 250. The 170 would consume my budget and the 250 is over my budget but I can’t get over the beauty and quality of these tanks!
If I go with a IM Nuvo (or another sleek tank) and am able to pull off a nice looking stand, I can save about $1000 in total costs. Plus, the lack of space for an ATO container in the 170 (a pricey but reasonable option) is a downer.
I built 2 stands for my freshwater setups in the past and they actually came out okay….if you stand far. I don’t like how things don’t line up and you can see the end grains of the plywood. Looks amateurish. Attached some pictures. Excuse the mess. Spring cleaning coming soon . You can see how things don't line up.
Can you help me learn what would be required to make a stand that looks like a Red Sea Reefer stand (or close to it). I’m looking to make the stand flush with the display and look minimalistic and modern. If it’s economical and possible for a newbie, I may give it a try.
Tools I currently own:
Miter saw, level, right angle square, Kreg pocket hole jig, measuring tape
If I go with a IM Nuvo (or another sleek tank) and am able to pull off a nice looking stand, I can save about $1000 in total costs. Plus, the lack of space for an ATO container in the 170 (a pricey but reasonable option) is a downer.
I built 2 stands for my freshwater setups in the past and they actually came out okay….if you stand far. I don’t like how things don’t line up and you can see the end grains of the plywood. Looks amateurish. Attached some pictures. Excuse the mess. Spring cleaning coming soon . You can see how things don't line up.
Can you help me learn what would be required to make a stand that looks like a Red Sea Reefer stand (or close to it). I’m looking to make the stand flush with the display and look minimalistic and modern. If it’s economical and possible for a newbie, I may give it a try.
Tools I currently own:
Miter saw, level, right angle square, Kreg pocket hole jig, measuring tape
- Is building my stand worth the extra cost and time? I suspect building a stand will cost $200 to $300 depending on if I need new tools.
- How do you make the end grains of the plywood invisible?
- Do I need to use 2x4s for the frame? I will most likely go with a 40 gallon display.
- If I do not use 2x4s and use only 3/4 inch plywood, is a back necessary? I would have a top, bottom, and sides. The front will be only doors.
- Is a circular saw the best tool for ripping plywood and cutting holes in plywood?
- Is a slight overhand of the display tank safe?
- How do you achieve the gloss look Red Sea stands give? Vinyl, a special paint or stain, formica? The stand would also have to be waterproof.
- If your tank has rims, how do you make the rims not so obvious. I’m considering a 40 breeder and the rims are a turn off for me.
- Any other tips for a modern or contemporary looking stand?