Weight of Large Tank

[drcrook]

I'm looking at a full system of around 350 gallons. Hardwood stand with steel reinforcement etc. I'm estimating the total weight will be close to 3,750 lbs. It would go right up against that fireplace on the back side. That fireplace is a full masonry fireplace above a basement and does not go into the basement. I'm not sure what is supporting that, but I'd expect it to be substantial since that is a full solid rock fireplace, not just decorative. I'm definately going to consult a builder, but interested in hearing folks opinions/thoughts especially if you have a similar setup and or house design. The whole house is built as a timber frame mortise tenon super structure (no nails).

 

[JTP424]

Do you have any information regarding the joists of the flooring? Direction/pattern/spacing?

 

[kfries]

First of all, you have a beautiful home, and a fish tank will look great right there. One of the first things to consider is how the floor joists run, as far as whether they are perpendicular or parallel to the fireplace. The way they tie into the structure that is supporting the fireplace is also important. Keep in mind that whatever is holding up the fireplace was most likely designed for the weight of the fireplace and not necessarily designed for an extra couple of tons of weight. Often, these structures are heavily overbuilt, and since they are compressive loads, they can take a lot of extra load.

 

[Gumbies R Us]

@Troylee

 

[Uncle99]

I'm looking at a full system of around 350 gallons. Hardwood stand with steel reinforcement etc. I'm estimating the total weight will be close to 3,750 lbs. It would go right up against that fireplace on the back side. That fireplace is a full masonry fireplace above a basement and does not go into the basement. I'm not sure what is supporting that, but I'd expect it to be substantial since that is a full solid rock fireplace, not just decorative. I'm definately going to consult a builder, but interested in hearing folks opinions/thoughts especially if you have a similar setup and or house design. The whole house is built as a timber frame mortise tenon super structure (no nails).

Approaching two tons, and next to an existing load, you’ll need reinforcements below that sized system for sure.

A mistake would be catastrophic.

 

[drcrook]

First of all, you have a beautiful home, and a fish tank will look great right there. One of the first things to consider is how the floor joists run, as far as whether they are perpendicular or parallel to the fireplace. The way they tie into the structure that is supporting the fireplace is also important. Keep in mind that whatever is holding up the fireplace was most likely designed for the weight of the fireplace and not necessarily designed for an extra couple of tons of weight. Often, these structures are heavily overbuilt, and since they are compressive loads, they can take a lot of extra load.

Thanks! I absolutely love it and just love timber frame construction homes. The estimate on the weight of that fireplace is north of 10 tons. I think you are right though about the tank will not be sitting on that support structure most likely and I need to look at those joists. Also the directionality of those joists is a good call.

 

[W31Olds]

I would recheck below the Fireplace. If it doesn't go all the way to the basement floor there must be steel underneath it, especially since it's it the middle of the room.