90+ gallons on the floor

[Silvertongue700]

Attached some pictures below where I’d like to put another tank. Really doesn’t need to be bigger than 90 gallons. 90 is the tank size I’d like for the space but I first need to know beyond all reasonable doubt that it will be supported without any issues. I understand getting a structural engineer out would be best but if anyone needs more information to give their best estimate on the maximum load that can be supported here let’s figure this out.

 

[Toby_H]

Overall, your home looks well built and the materials are still in good shape.

With those things being true, rarely is it a risk to put a 90 gal tank against a load bearing wall.

With larger tanks, say 180 gal+, its best to put it against an outside wall, crossing the floor joists (as opposed to going parallel). Even this is usually not a necessity.

Are you placing it against the outside wall? Even if not, it looks like your interior wall is well supported with a 4" x 6" joist & column.

From what I can see, you look safe.
For reference, I'm not a structural engineer but have worked for an engineering firm most if my adult life. My crews test soil & concrete foundations (among other things).

 

[Silvertongue700]

Overall, your home looks well built and the materials are still in good shape.

With those things being true, rarely is it a risk to put a 90 gal tank against a load bearing wall.

With larger tanks, say 180 gal+, its best to put it against an outside wall, crossing the floor joists (as opposed to going parallel). Even this is usually not a necessity.

Are you placing it against the outside wall? Even if not, it looks like your interior wall is well supported with a 4" x 6" joist & column.

From what I can see, you look safe.
For reference, I'm not a structural engineer but have worked for an engineering firm most if my adult life. My crews test soil & concrete foundations (among other things).

Thats what I figured. The 200-500 gallon will have to go into the next house. Only thing is that this 90gal will not be directly above the 4” by 6”. That would be under one end of the tank. It is going against an exterior wall.

 

[Toby_H]

I'm shopping for a house right now. I strongly prefer slabs, for aquarium related reasons. That said I've made an offer on a crawlspace and likely will again.

And I plan to put a 750 gal stock tank in the house. Id certainly add joists, columns and concrete footings. But thats because its 650 gallons of water and in the middle of a room.

If you have any concern, or if you have someone who is concerned... put a nail in the joist most likely to sag. Hang a weight from a string (plumb bob). Measure it. Then add the tank. Monitor it for sag.

 

[fishguy1978]

A 90g isn't going to be a problem. You have 2x8(?) joists with 3/4 - 1in floor decking, not going to sag. 90g is still a small aquarium. When you get up around 180g medium size aquariums then sag can become an issue.

The Sagulator – WoodBin

 

[Silvertongue700]

Is it safe to assume that a 120 gallon would work as well?

 

[fishguy1978]

Yes.

 

[Silvertongue700]

Just picked up a 125 for $150. This thing is built way better than any of the smaller tanks I’ve had. Still a bit concerned about the weight. I’m planning to put it on cinder blocks and plywood nothing fancy. Anyone have advice on how I should setup the stand?

 

[fishguy1978]

Stack the cinder blocks so that the holes are vertically aligned for the most strength. If you look close you can see where I had to shim between blocks.

My 260g

60g sitting on 2 layers of 3/4in ply and 2x6 treated.

 

[Silvertongue700]

Stack the cinder blocks so that the holes are vertically aligned for the most strength. If you look close you can see where I had to shim between blocks.
View attachment 1471012
My 260g
View attachment 1471011
60g sitting on 2 layers of 3/4in ply and 2x6 treated.
View attachment 1471021

Great looking tank! Is that tank on a total of 12 cinder blocks on the four corners? None in the middle? How many cinder blocks would you recommend for a 6’ by 18” 125 and what orientation?