Working out plans for an 8x4x4 tank and want to know if this would work. Instead of butting panels against each other and corner posts, cut slots in the posts and slide panels into them. The floor could be slotted into the posts also. Any thoughts or suggestions welcome, even if it's to say I'm crazy.
Design question
- Thread starter dragonfish
- Start date
Not sure if you would gain anymore strength using that method, plus I think it would actually give you more joints to seal. One other thing a 48" tall tank will have to be much stronger. The water pressure of taller tanks is very extreme.
Thanks Bderick. I'm trying to get all the input I can so as to minimize mistakes. I know that it will have to be stronger as it gets taller, but your avatar inspired me to go for more room.
Is this going to be a plywood tank with windows or a glass tank with wood corners?
If all wood, slotting the corner uprights (4x4s) an inch and inserting the side panels would make the corner seams very strong considering you can run screws thru both side of the slot and pull the seam tight. Fitting into the floor could weaken it, I use a 2x2 on each side of the side walls top and bottom (basically creating a slot). Not as pretty as pieces butted together, but I would rather have strength over beauty in this case.
Dr Joe
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If all wood, slotting the corner uprights (4x4s) an inch and inserting the side panels would make the corner seams very strong considering you can run screws thru both side of the slot and pull the seam tight. Fitting into the floor could weaken it, I use a 2x2 on each side of the side walls top and bottom (basically creating a slot). Not as pretty as pieces butted together, but I would rather have strength over beauty in this case.
Dr Joe
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Thinking full frame top and bottom with 2x6 supports every 12-16 inches. Still working out details.