i have been doing some research on stands for my future 55 gal tank. ive read thet iron is lees sturdy but i like is because i dont need a nice wood stand. i want a less expensive stand (iron) but also practical. im prolly gonna get iron should i not?
iron vs wood stand
- Thread starter klmt
- Start date
Depends on the design. How much support and structure does it give to the tank itself.
Got a pic?
Got a pic?
You ought to be able to find an iron stand that can withstand the weight of a 55 gallon tank. The not-so-great part about the iron stand is the visibility of cords and your fishing eq. An upside to it, though, is that you can have another tank on the underhalf.
All the big box pet stores make iron stands that will support 55g tanks. I think they are kind of ugly (doesn't hide ANYTHING), but they are cheap and I have never heard of one failing.
my thoughts,
Wood:
Ups:Cheaper, Easier to Diy and to add a "wrap" of plywood or other things etc. Also the most easiest to find.
Downs: less underneath space, heavier.
Overall: Best option for simple freshwater setups or DingIY. only need to brush on some clear estapol to keep it water tight
Steel:
Ups:lighter, more underneath space ideal for "High-Tek" reef setups where space is needed for light controllers large sumps and skimmers, chillers phos,cal,kalk, sul and other reactors etc.
Downs: not the easiest DIY unless you have acess to equipment and know how to use it. more expensive. need to be powder coated which can get expensive.
Overall: the best option for setups which need alot of equipment.
Wood:
Ups:Cheaper, Easier to Diy and to add a "wrap" of plywood or other things etc. Also the most easiest to find.
Downs: less underneath space, heavier.
Overall: Best option for simple freshwater setups or DingIY. only need to brush on some clear estapol to keep it water tight
Steel:
Ups:lighter, more underneath space ideal for "High-Tek" reef setups where space is needed for light controllers large sumps and skimmers, chillers phos,cal,kalk, sul and other reactors etc.
Downs: not the easiest DIY unless you have acess to equipment and know how to use it. more expensive. need to be powder coated which can get expensive.
Overall: the best option for setups which need alot of equipment.
I'm having big problems with the steel stand for my 160g not being deal level across the top, I put the tank on it with no poly and there is a gap of about 2mm at either end, and the tank is only supported in the middle. I never had any problems like that with the timber stands I made.