[Reefer769]

hey everyone, im starting to build a new stand for my 30gal this weekend, becuase i read that if your tank is just a little bit off scale then it might crack, and the reason im making a new one is becuase the stand i made first off sucks and is all uneven, so i need to get this new one built as soon as possible.

-what kind of screws should i use to drill the stand together? (should they even be screws? or should then be thin, or thick? or should i just use wood glue instead of screws?

-next is will 2X4's will strong enough, or will i need to purchase something a little thicker? im only using 2x4's for the top frame, and for the bottom frame im using 2x6's, and the the legs im using 3x3's. and for the top, just a 1/2" plywood sheet.

-should the stand have a base to it? or should i just leave the bottom open?

thanks!

[imsqueak]

2x4s will be enough by far. I built mine out of 2x4s (100' of them) for my 300. You could actually get away with using 3/4 plywood and just a 1x3 frame if you wanted. Use decking screws, they are meant to be subjected to weather.

[Meric]

Originally Posted by Reefer769

hey everyone, im starting to build a new stand for my 30gal this weekend, becuase i read that if your tank is just a little bit off scale then it might crack, and the reason im making a new one is becuase the stand i made first off sucks and is all uneven, so i need to get this new one built as soon as possible.

-what kind of screws should i use to drill the stand together? (should they even be screws? or should then be thin, or thick? or should i just use wood glue instead of screws?

-next is will 2X4's will strong enough, or will i need to purchase something a little thicker? im only using 2x4's for the top frame, and for the bottom frame im using 2x6's, and the the legs im using 3x3's. and for the top, just a 1/2" plywood sheet.

-should the stand have a base to it? or should i just leave the bottom open?

thanks!

You should try shimming your current stand before building a new one. However if you want to build a new one. Don't waste your time and money buying all those different types of wood.

Buy all 2 X 4's and make sure they are straight before you buy them. Look at them closely. .5" Plywood for the top is perfectly fine. I used KIN dried wood, but you can also use treated wood (non Arsenic).

I had a link somewhere that had a great DIY stand building site.

You should use both Glue and Screws. Get some good waterproof wood glue and marine grade deck screws.

Make sure when you cut the wood, it the length you need within 1/32" and the cuts are straight. When you assemble you stand make sure that your corners are 90 degrees.

Most importantly take your time and do it right the first time (well in this case the second time) so you wont have to do it again a third time.

[Reefer769]

alright thanks a lot, what do you suggest about side panels? and what should i use for the doors?

[sirrahcd]

Do a search on Google for DIY Aquarium Stands. Your options are endless and what materials you use all depends on what you want your stand to look like. If your stand painted, then use exterior grade plywood. Want it to match your current furniture, then look into laminates, cabinate grade plywood, and solid hardwood/softwood lumber.

The best advice, as stated earlier, is to take your time in both planning and construction.

[Reefer769]

im puting on molding around the top frame and bottom frame. when that is all secure i will moove on to boarding up the sides with plywood(hopefully today, if i get all the molding secure). and tommarow i will paint the whole thing. i wont have a door on it yet becuase the top peice of plywood on my old stand will be the door, but the tanks still on the old stand, so i need to wait untill i switch stands to get the door in place. ill have picstures up soon.

[Reefer769]

here are the pics of what ive done today. and theres a pic of the huge plywood board i will be cutting the side panels out of(hopefully today).