Weight

[jaforres]

Weight
I want to start my first post of by giving thanks to all those who contribute to this board. I have for the last few months read (and read and read…) and hope some day I can contribute as much as many on this forum. My question is concerning weight. I know many have asked this same question but I am having difficulties finding an answer. The builder of my home (about 3 years old now) will not even return my calls regarding this question and the contractors who I have contacted seem to be too busy to assist. I have found my dream tank, 180 gallon glasscages with stand, canopy, 45 gallon refregium, sand, life rock, etc and I am interested in placing this on my main floor. I have attached a pic to see if it is remotely feasible to place the aquarium on my main floor. What has me concerned is the floor joists would be parallel with the tank, however in the middle of where the tank would sit is a steam beam. Given that there are many variables and assumptions in answering this, am I completely crazy for attempting to place a tank of this size here?
Thank you,
-jason

 

[kzoo]

I would be scared water alone wound be 1800lbs with tank and fuge you would be pushing 2500lbs that a small car I would get a enginner. :scared:

 

[shu-perman]

I personally would have no problems w/ placing a 180 gal tank there(I've been a GC for 20+ yrs)....those engineered floor joist are very strong and the beam is just added support....BUT the safe bet is to hire an engineer to do a survey if yo uare really that concerned...

 

[hot883]

Fresh water weighs 8.34 lbs. per gallon. I would not place any tank in any direction except ACROSS the joists for maximum support. Just my opinion, hope that helps.
Welcome to the boards by the way.

 

[hatessushi]

Most builders in sub-divisions could give a crap about you once they build the homes they are gone. They may come back within a year to fix minor things but generaly they just take the money and run.
I agree, get an engineer to inspect it.

 

[ktsdad]

Originally Posted by Shu-perman
BUT the safe bet is to hire an engineer to do a survey if yo uare really that concerned...
Good advice, better safe than sorry.
While you are add it, talk to an electrical guy to make sure you have enough power (and GFI outlets) to use exclusively for your tank.
Just my opinion.
Good Luck!