Acrylic tank support on stand

[krabbo008]

I'm setting up my 300 7'×21"×40". The tank has a steel stand w. Cross bracing every 20". The previous owner lined the top of the stand w. Foam weather stripping. I removed most of that as I know thats incorrect. I do not believe the tank ever had water in it w. That setup.

I have used foam board under the tank in previous builds, but have noticed views on that have changed in recent years. wednesday13 .

So my question is-- how should I go about setting this up? I was thinking of using MDF under the tank as it will be much smoother than plywood. I would of course paint it to prevent water damage. Better options?

 

[Reedmaster16]

Just use plywood. MDF will turn to mush with moisture.

 

[Oughtsix]

Buy a GOOD sheet of plywood... not HomeDepot CD grade crap. It will cost a bit more but be well worth the extra cost. Any lumber place will cut the sheet of plywood down for you if you buy it from them.

I like to seal plywood under a tank with fiberglass resin... just the resin, no need for fiberglass.

I would never put MDF under a tank!

 

[DN328]

I'm setting up my 300 7'×21"×40". The tank has a steel stand w. Cross bracing every 20". The previous owner lined the top of the stand w. Foam weather stripping. I removed most of that as I know thats incorrect. I do not believe the tank ever had water in it w. That setup.

I have used foam board under the tank in previous builds, but have noticed views on that have changed in recent years. wednesday13 .

So my question is-- how should I go about setting this up? I was thinking of using MDF under the tank as it will be much smoother than plywood. I would of course paint it to prevent water damage. Better options?

If plywood strong is what you need (and I agree), then you should use MDO.
- Medium Density Overlay. Basically plywood with a smooth nice finish for painting. The place that built my tank recommended it and I've been using for 4 years under my 260G. Painting is not required but I painted white to give a better look inside my stand.

I think the general concensus here is acrylic tanks directly on top wood. Use 1/2" foam on plywood for glass (what I do). Having said this, I have an acrylic sump sitting on foam within a wood tray under my tank. No issues so far.