New reef tank journey

[Acid King]

Hey all, it was recommended I start a build thread for my first reef tank in the introduction forum.

As of today I’ve got my tank, sump, built my stand, and have my RO. Currently I’m trying to decide between an Eshopps overflow and Marine Depot’s Elite overflows.

Here’s what I got so far. From the start of my stand build to the stain and urethane I’ll be using. Also my RODI. These pics are rough because I didn’t take them with the intention of a step by step guide or approach. But will try my best to be more descriptive as this project comes to fruition.

My dad and I built the stand with a solid 3/4” red oak front panel and trim, while the sides, rear, and bottom are all 3/4” plywood with oak veneer. My dad is a perfectionist and likes to conceal fasteners so we used dowels to secure the panel structure and a Craig Jig for the top, rear, and sides. Copious amounts of Titebond II and this thing isn’t going anywhere. Currently I’m working on staining the stand. I’d have more of it done by now but I had a vesectomy yesterday so I’m not allowed to do any bending and lifting.

 

[Acid King]

 

[Fishboy9227]

Wow. Your cabinetry skills are

Looking forward to see more progress!

 

[Acid King]

We built at my dads shop and I’m finishing it in my garage. He’s a serious wood worker among other hobbies. It’s just easier to build at his place when he’s got everything you need available. I’d rather work with a table saw than jigs and a skilsaw. Plus his wood working skills are phenomenal compared to mine.

 

[Rollman]

Welcome. Very cool

 

[Acid King]

Welcome. Very cool

Thanks!

 

[Acid King]

This week I ordered;

Marine Depot Medium Elite Overflow
Eheim Jager 125W for the mixing container
Marineland Maxi-Jet 400 Powerhead for mixing
Tropic Marin Pro Reef Salt

After I get the overflow setup I’ll post some pics!

 

[Acid King]

Just finished with the exterior staining. Gotta let it dry. Trying to decide if I should stain the inside as well before I finish the whole thing with exterior urethane.

Picked up a bunch of plate glass from Home Depot along with my glass cutter and some clamps that won’t destroy glass. I’m still trying to decide how I’m gonna layout my sump. I know this is a beginner setup for you folks but I want to think everything through.

Picked up a Bubble Magus Curve 5 on Marinedepot since they were running a sale. Need to get an ATO next. I’ve got a 5 gallon and 10 gallon tank, if I can I’ll turn the 10 into my ATO.