Whats cheaper???

S

smoochxoxo

AC Members
Jun 15, 2008
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NY
To build a stand or buy one for a 30 gallon tank? I do have access to tools and am pretty handy but wasn't sure what might be involved with building if I decide to go that route?
I would like to have something furniture like just because I think in the long run it will look nicer but if I had to I could get by with cement blocks and plywood for now.lol

What do you guys/gals normally do? Build or buy?
If you build do you have any tips or advice for me?
 
Hey Jenn,

I guess it all depends on how good you are at finishing wood to make it look like furniture. I built a 150 gallon stand and swore that I would never do it again. It took me forever and due to time, i really didn't get to make it look how I wanted. I swore that I would never build a "furniture" stand again. You are dealing with a much smaller scale, so you may have a better time of it.

Best wishes!
 
Agreed, nother issue that might crop up is integrity of the stand itself. I build a stand, and it just never was very stable, so a built another one, again, not stable. Well I had one laying around, this one was stable but used the same basic design as my last, I cannot for the life of me figure it out either.
 
Make sure it is braced well, remember that triangles are stronger than squares. A plywood back to your stand will add lateral stability by connecting all the corners, keeping it from swaying side to side. Remember that most construction lumber will be wet, and may warp after assembly, plywood and dry hardwoods will not do this. To save money, use as much plywood as possible, and wood on the exposed edges. Use a good quality plywood though, I think HD has birch, and lyptus. If your construction is mostly plywood, you can get away with pine for the face and doors, but then either paint it or use a dark stain to get them to match. I'm a professional cabinetmaker by the way.
 
I think the big benefit to building your own is... you get to pick the material.
 
Thanks everyone. Well I must say I just went to pick up the tank and OH MY GOD is it awesome, so I would really like a nice stand. The metal ones make me nervous so unless I can shop around and find a nice one cheaper than $50 I will end up having to build something.
I really can't wait to set this tank up.
 
A third option...find a good sturdy used dresser that's the right footprint and will hold the 250-300lbs of tank OK. Not an antique, but something that you could refinish or paint. That's what I have my 40 Breeder on and it's solid.

Check out places like Goodwill, garage sales + used home & office furniture places. Rental furniture is often well-built and they sell it used for a reasonable price especially if it's an oddball. Rental office furniture is often built like a tank...

I have 2 20H's on an inexpensive metal stand. OK so far, but COULD be a bit more sturdy!
 
or you can learn how to weld like me and make a steel stand,and cover it with wood
 
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