starting my inwall build. Long slow trip.

[Tampico96]

I'm exploring my options for my tank setup in a new home.

I have 2 tanks that I could use and the final decision has not yet been made. I have a 6ft 150 gallon and a 4ft 125. I'm leaning towards the 125 for the deeper look.

I've collected a few items that I would like to work into this build but each opens more questions than they solve.

First off the "Stand" I wanted to use warehouse racking in a built in. The cross beams are rated for 5000lbs per beam... 2 beams = 10000lbs. Weight of the 2 tanks should not be an issue. Questions are:

1. With the concrete thickness for my 1971 built home, should I be concerned about point loading 4 4inch x 4 inch steel legs on the floor.

2. With both tanks having plastic trim, should I be concerned about the grate shelf on the rack. (see photo) does it need a layer of plywood or pink foam?

Next is the sump. I'd like to use 1or 2 of the plastic totes that I have as a sump. This may be more of a big tank forum question, but what type of configuration do people use in stocktanks as sumps. Do they devide it into sections or keep it one open area. These totes are 49inches wide 29 inches deep and 25inches tall. makes for a max volume of 135 gallons but 75-100 gallons as a sump seem more realistic.

Thanks
Josh

 

[swabe3618]

1. I dont think it would be a problem for the amount of gallons you are using.
How level is the concrete floor? You might have to shim it anyways. For piece of mind though you can use ice hockey pucks. (I actually use them all the time for stuff, for example; i have a steel frame bed...not on wheels, and i used four hockey pucks to keep the carpeting from getting destroyed.)

2. A piece of foam or ply wouldnt hurt but even just using a piece of scrap cardboard wouldnt hurt either. But i dont think you need to worry about going out and purchasing anything for it.

These are just my opinions however. Good luck with your build!

 

[Tampico96]

Thanks for the advise. As far as the sump design, I dont think I am going to devide it into chambers. one large vat. Drain lines coming into to a filter sock. 8-10inches of sand bed. Skimmer sitting on a milk crate and fill the tub with live rock. Just tapping the side for the return pump back.