In wall Tank

[bill f]

what size framing should I use on a 180 gallon tank
I figure 4x4 posts, 3/4 inch plywood top with formica but what about the rest?
double 2x6's? Too little or too much?

 

[robchuck]

To support a 180, you wouldn't need anything more than 2x4's to build an overbuilt stand. Note that most pre-built stands for tanks of that size are made of 3/4" pine and stapled together.

 

[woodymdt]

I'd have to agree with Rob. 2x4's would make an adequate stand for a tank of that size. Even using a nail gun would make it sturdy enough, although myself I would use wood screws and Gorilla glue.

 

[robchuck]

And make sure that the perimeter framing of top of the stand is attached to the top of the 2x4's, and not to the sides. You want to have the vertical 2x4's themselves holding up the tank, and not the screws that attach the top framing to the vertical 2x4's supporting everything.

 

[woodymdt]

Just as an added precaution, I'd probably consider screwing in solid shelf brackets, the L brackets, on the inside of the top and vertical 2x4s, just for an added brace.

 

[bill f]

Thanks for the info.
Maybe use those metal deck joist hangers (or the appropriate hardware) and paint them.

 

[wwfstyle]

I have seen 1 guy use 4x4 and just cut out noches where the tank would sit on the inside but still on the 4x4. Ya it's over board but then he had ply wood around so you wouldn't see the tank from his garage. You cannt really go over board better to be safe then sry. He also used 2x4 as cross peices for under the tank and that also use noched into the 4x4.

 

[viet-tin]

I just built my stand for my in-wall tank. I used 2x4s and 2x6s. Didnt have a clue to what i was doing but i finished it and it is holding up my 100 gallon. I overkilled it with braces and extra concrete screws.

 

[darthmatt]

last but not least...make sure its perfectly level.

 

[viet-tin]

Yes. I kept thinking my stand was unlevel so i kept taking it apart. But it isnt always the tank that is crokked. My tanks bottom framing was crooked so i shoved a bunch of shims underneath.

 

[bill f]

more good info, thanks