Stand Building Question
- Thread starter Twiegs
- Start date
bdevillier
New member
i used 2x2 for my 20 long. i screwed and glued it to 1/2 mdf for shear strenght. if you do it like i did it might be strong enough if the inner frame is built properly. you could always do metal. thats the way i'm going next time. less wasted space on lumber.
Henchman24
Member
I like to think of it this way - a gallon of water weighs a little more than 8 lbs. 40 gallons of water is 320 lbs plus live rock weight. you can build a stand with 2x2 , 2x4, or even Popsicle sticks as long as the weight is supported. Using liquid nails, adding support pieces, and adding L-brackets will add to support strength. I like to go overboard & used 2x4 studs on my 40 gallon stand plus the studs are cheap as <font size="4" color="#0000FF">profanity removed</font>. Now keep in mind my stand is unfinished still being a 2x4 frame. Not going to impress the ladies or please the wife by any means. Bottom line there are many options just make sure the weight is supported & it is what you want.
This guy uarujoey builds a ton of stands & tanks
http://youtu.be/jN4Y9AYuwcQ
My stand I built - still unfinished
This guy uarujoey builds a ton of stands & tanks
http://youtu.be/jN4Y9AYuwcQ
My stand I built - still unfinished
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tatuaje08
New member
No problem. The only reason people use 2x4s and such is because they aren't good at working with wood. It is easier to build a wood frame and skin it, rather then build only from plywood. Not only do you waste time and money using lumber, but you also lose a ton of real estate inside the stand. I have built stands 5' long with plywood only. Just look at the commercial stands sold in stores.
Thanks for the info and the you tube link!
**Quote edited for profanity**
This guy uarujoey builds a ton of stands & tanks
http://youtu.be/jN4Y9AYuwcQ
My stand I built - still unfinished
**Quote edited for profanity**
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I would definitely agree with you. I'm not the best with wood working. I would have no idea how to build a stand with just plywood. Which is why I was leaning toward using a wood frame. The stands in the store seem to be built out of particle board! But they work.
brian cummings
New member
it's amazing how much weight a properly made stand in plywood or even MDF can support. I've made stands for years for some of the art museums in town (usually MDF), that we put bronzes on and such.
jteternal2
New member
I have build both a ply wood and a frame stand for my 200 gallon Oscars tank. I still think the 2x4 frame are easier if you don't have much wood work or tool, just need a miter saw and a drill. The ply wood stand was just hold togetter with wood glue and staples.
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Bummer! I just purchased all the wood this morning. Thanks for the offer though. I appreciate it!
Henchman24
Member
please keep us informed on how the stand build goes. It is cool to see different ways things are done in this hobby as there are many options. Some stands will look amazing with trim & beautifully stained while others like mine don't look the best but are overkill strength wise. I guess growing up working for my uncle building houses I will always go the 2x4 method. Don't be too discouraged with woodworking as 90% of it is having the right tools & proper materials. At least there are no inspections you have to pass.
