need help with DIY 8ft long stand

K

kpatrick

Guest
I am getting a 8ft long, 240 gallon tank. I was wanting to build my own stand and I noticed most of the plans out there use 2x4s instead of 4x4s. Also, from the pictures I have seen most people are not using pressure treated lumber. Is there a reason why 4x4s and pressure treated lumber arent used?
Since there is going to be a lot of weight on this stand I wasnt sure if I should use lag bolts to secure everything or just screws? I want to make sure it doesnt collapse but from the looks of some of the stands out there I am thinking lag bolts may be overkill.
Thanks,
 
the maggot

the maggot

Member
I wouldn't use PT unless it is in contact with the ground(outside). Arsenic and lots of other chemicals are present in PT. As for lag screws on the 4x4's, probably alot stronger than screws. Be sure not to split the wood if your lagging close to the edges. Two 2x4's = one 4x4 IMO. Search some threads as there are some nice stands here that show construction.
 
king_neptune

king_neptune

Active Member
Originally Posted by kpatrick
http:///forum/post/3223887
I was wanting to build my own stand and I noticed most of the plans out there use 2x4s instead of 4x4s.
Is there a reason why 4x4s and pressure treated lumber arent used?
... I am thinking lag bolts may be overkill.
Thanks,
For an 8ft span I would use 2x8's(at least 2x6).
Yes there is a reason not to use presure treated. I forget what it is, but it does exist.
There is never over kill! only regret that you didnt make it stronger. Be sure to use coupling plates as well.
Hear is a photo album of my stand. Its a really sturdy design and leaves me lots of room inside to work with:
http://s40.photobucket.com/albums/e2...yle/?start=120
And my brother the structural engineer aproved my design. I used plates with 1.5" screws, with 3" wood screws and glue along all other points that needed to be coupled.
 
aquaknight

aquaknight

Active Member
Here's my 240gal build, still working on the stand. Just skinned it today, will get some new pics up.
https://forums.saltwaterfish.com/vb/s...d.php?t=369370
I used 2"x6"s, with 2"x4"s as 'backers' and everything is screwed together. So in actuality, probably stronger then a 4"x4".
In addition to the chemical reasons not to use PT lumber, there is that the wood is often bad wood. I dunno if it's the PT process itself, but the wood is usually warped, very brittle, usually with splits and splintering at the edges. Check out any wood telephone pole. It's okay for wood that gets used occasionally like on a deck, but for a constant big load, don't use PT. I would have built my stand with 4"x4", but couldn't find any non-PT.
 
gill again68

gill again68

Active Member
I think that the way you use the wood is a critical as what wood you use. Look at how you run your grains and what is under them. You would also do well to use coated screws that prevent rust. I have a thread on here that shows some of my design but you probably have enough here already. If you are really concerned, and you should be, look into welded frames and skin that with wood.
Good Luck!
 
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