I want to get a stand for my 150 gallon aquarium. I was looking at the stands for them at petco, and they are made of like 2X2 s. I want to build one out of 2X4s and plywood, but I am unsure about what to do, cuts, staning because my tank is oak colored, ect. HELP
Stand For 150 gallon
- Thread starter reefraymaster
- Start date
All you need to do is two rectangles outve 2x4s with 45 degree cuts on the ends. One for the tank to sit on an one as a Base, The make posts (however tall) you want them. Obviously all 4 corners, Id suggest doubling up on the corner posts an placing either 2 more 2x4 posts in the Middle (1 front one back) or 4 more 2x4 posts (2 front an 2 back).
If youd like I can draw up some basic plans for a frame an you can do what you want as a covering.
If youd like I can draw up some basic plans for a frame an you can do what you want as a covering.
Its best to have a post directly under each corner of the tank.you can double them up or use 4x4 if you want it really sturdy.use screws instead of nails to fasten the joists to the posts.Use a stainer and sealant for the wood you dont want it absorbing water.any good hardware store or home depot can help ypu match stain to your tank take color samples home and see what matches best.theres pics of diy stands all over the net this site included look at a lot of stands and draw plans before you start
It's pretty basic. I just wipped this out on paint, but the squres are posts, the browns are 2x4s (I used 2x6s at the base and 2x4s at the top) and the corners are cut 45 degree.
Actually, better to skip the 45deg cuts. Butt them up against the piece next to them and support them with vertical 2x4s. Oh, also those ones that are flat should be vertical. A stand can be made with 2x4s, no problem.
As far as staining, there are several ways to do it, but I prefer the easy way. Sand the wood with 120g or so. Apply mineral spirits to clean off any residues and it also pulls off some of the leftover sawdust. Apply the approrpiate stain (I use a 2 in one minwax stain and seal). Allow it to dry and sand with a fine steel wool. This will remove the burrs that are overlooked or sealed in with the polyurethane. Allow to dry for a day and apply a second coat. This coat will make the stain resemble the intended color. Usually 2 coats is enough, but if you need more, repeat with the steel wool. On the final coat, allow to dry for a day or 2 then rub it with newspaper. This will polish it and ensure that the sealant is cured. It keeps it from staying sticky.