150 Gallon Build Thread ... From the Start

[WaywardSon]

How tall are you making the hood?

Hey Matt - between 13" and 16" - still tossing that around.

 

[WaywardSon]

I went the DIY route for the stand for my 45g. I'm really glad I did it. I had a lot of fun and it was extremely custom.

That being said, I'm buying my next stand. Doint the math, on a stand for a 180g(my next tank) I'll likely save about $150 by building the stand/canopy myself, but I figure $150 is well worth avoiding the headache of desiging and building a stand/canopy and the added professional quality.

Like I said, I learned a lot, but my stand is still no where near professional. Good luck though, DIY stands are a lot of fun.

It is cool to DIY - I figure I will save between $800 and $1,000 on the stand and canopy when it's all done (hopefully - lol). I am hoping the DIY will be a bit better quality - if I do say so myself - LOL!!

 

[WaywardSon]

I'm a carpenter by profession and I must say that's some good looking, structurally sound work there. Looking forward to seeing it finished.

Thanks Slappy - just taking my time ... measuring twice and cutting once!!

 

[WaywardSon]

BTW, have those same Irwin clamps, I love using them to cut wood when a vice just isn't enough.

Absolutely - they are great! And, it keeps me from getting my *** ate out because I don't have to ask the Mrs. to come out and hold it (LOL)!

 

[WaywardSon]

Progress:

Final glue-up on the frame of the stand ...

Putting in the bottom (3/4" ply) ...

I was also able to go out today and pick up the finish stock. Alder dimensional lumber and panels. Will be making face frames for all 3 sides with rails and stiles doors and end panels. Will likely be staining the Alder a dark cherry (still debating on the exact finish).

More to come ... :thm::thm::thm:

Thanks for checking it out!!!

 

[WaywardSon]

Question:

Suggestions on a back for the stand???!!!???

Originally thought I needed it for strength - probably don't.

Should I put a back on with cutouts? The top half missing? Holes for the hoses, etc??

I am completely open to suggestions.

The back (if there is one) is the next thing to go on - ideas??

Thanks!

 

[Kevin007]

How do you plan to finish the stand? I think a ADA style stand would look great..

 

[WaywardSon]

How do you plan to finish the stand? I think a ADA style stand would look great..

Not sure what ADA means ... ??

 

[jmhart]

ADA stand: http://forum.sfbaaps.com/files/stand_679.jpg

http://www.aquascapingworld.com/magazine/images/stories/Issues/May2008/DIYstand.jpg

 

[WaywardSon]

ADA stand: http://forum.sfbaaps.com/files/stand_679.jpg

That is a really sweet look; below are a couple of pics of our cabinets - I am planning on patterning the finish of the stand / canopy after them.