How much sand needed?

DaisyTattoo

AC Members
Jan 11, 2006
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Illinois
How many lbs of sand would I need for a 55g tank? I am thinking of purchasing pool filter sand which comes in 50lb bags. Would 50lbs be enough? Or would I need to buy 2 bags?
 
I am no expert! But I just did my new 46G bowfront with 50lbs of industrial sand and topped it with gravel. It was LOTS. But, the footprint of the bowfront is probably a deal smaller than your 55.
 
yes, a 55 is just about 12x48 (give or take half an inch)

it depends on how deep you want it. a standard 50lb sand is about half a cubic foot. which would be like filling a container that is 12x12x6. so if you want your sand to be 3" deep, you would need aproximately 2 bags, if you want it to be an inch and a half, you'd only need one bag, if you want it to be 4" deep, you may need a third bag, but you probably wouldn't use all of it.
 
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