I know the norm is to use 2x4 but I don't like working with 2x4's and 2x3 are much straighter and easier work with and from a cosmetic viewpoint it conserves space better, it's only 1 inch difference. Some prefer the more is better method, I prefer the less is better approach. The stand will eventually hold an 8ft glass aquarium 96x24x24. I'm planning on having two tanks below it, maybe two 75's or two 120's. Would the vertical 2x3 hold the weight ? Does 1 inch really make a difference ? The weight would of course be distributed on wood not screws. Since 2x3 are less expensive, I could always add a few more extra vertical posts.
Is it ok to use 2x3 for 8ft stand ?
- Thread starter plecostic
- Start date
Assuming you don't have a span over 4 feet I think you should be fine. I think the 3 keys are weight being distributed to the legs(as you mention), the angles being square and the stand being rigid.
If you design and build it well, I think the 2x3 will make a stand that is strong enough, but also light enough it isn't impossible to move.
If you design and build it well, I think the 2x3 will make a stand that is strong enough, but also light enough it isn't impossible to move.
2x3 would definitely be fine for the uprights - a single 2x3 can hold against thousands of pounds of vertical pressure. If you are spanning any distance horizontally you may want to upgrade to a larger dimension. It is not so much the size of the lumber, but rather the design of the stand that will make the most difference.
The stand for my 210 doesn't have a single piece of dimensional lumber in it (all plywood) but it is probably the strongest, most stable stand I've ever used (out of dozens of DIY and store-bought stands I've owned).
The stand for my 210 doesn't have a single piece of dimensional lumber in it (all plywood) but it is probably the strongest, most stable stand I've ever used (out of dozens of DIY and store-bought stands I've owned).
I am actually looking at around the same size (volume) tank as yours (~200 to 250 gallons - but mine will be taller rather than longer: 72"Lx31"H) for my first native fishes tank, and I drew up a preliminary plan using 4x4 posts for the corner legs and 2x4's for corner/cross bracing (overall stand height will be ~36"). I'll be covering/facing the tank stand with unfinished 1x8 knotty pine shiplap boards so that it matches the lower wall covering of my recently-finished, hunting/fishing-themed basement 'man cave'.
From the responses to the OP it sounds like my support structure might be overkill, but I would rather err on the side of caution. However, as Dan F. said, lumber can be very strong and it is the design of the stand that is perhaps the most important.
From the responses to the OP it sounds like my support structure might be overkill, but I would rather err on the side of caution. However, as Dan F. said, lumber can be very strong and it is the design of the stand that is perhaps the most important.
ive made about 100 stands, from 2x10's to 1/2 " plywood, its all about the design and the span. Make a frame out 2x3 and use 2x4 uprights in the corners,so 8 2x4's ,two per corner, then skin it in 1/2 or 3/4 plywood.