WHY USE WOOD?WHY NOT METAL?
- Thread starter harvs95
- Start date
I wish I could weld. If I could then I would build my stands out of metal. I nearly had my cousin build some stands for me (he owns a metal fab shop) but I thought that would be asking too big a favor.
Personally, it depends on the application. If you're looking for space under the tank (ie. a big sump or stacking tanks), then metal is definitely the way to go. Having a 6' span without a center support is the way to go when stacking tanks. If you're looking for a piece of furniture, you could do either. A metal stand can just as easily be faced with nicely finished wood as a wood stand can, and if you know how to use magnets you can actually make the whole exterior removable (I've seen it done and looks fantastic, not to mention how easy the access to the sump is without having to deal with doors). Most people in NA use wood because it's very easy to work with, tools are much cheaper, and it's readily available.
termites are not typically found inside unless you have an extremely bad termite problem that has been established and existing for an extended period of time. if you have termites this bad, forget the tank, you have bigger problems. As for outside, pressure treated wood should be fine against termites. reasons most people dont use metal are the cost, the hassle of shaping metal compared to wood, lack of proper metal working skills/tools, and it is easier to paint and stain wood. i personally think a nice cabinet style hardwood stand looks great when it is stained or even just polycoated. you don't normally get the same wow factor from iron
My father's a fitter and turner. According to him metal's much easier to use then timber, and much cleaner. I think it comes down to personal preference.
