DIY 150 Gallon Stand

Fish tanks require a surface made to support their weight. Smaller fish tanks can be placed on counters, bookshelves or dressers. Larger tanks, though, are more problematic. The weight of the tank, the water, the substrate, the rocks and plants, plus the fish can weigh upwards of 500 pounds for a filled tank. This requires a stand that can support the weight. Commercial tank stands are expensive, but you can make your own for much less money and ensure the structure is secure.

Things You'll Need

  • 16 cinder blocks
  • Water
  • Spray paint
  • Wood stain
  • Four 2 x 4s, 60 inches long apiece
  • Two sheets of 1/4-inch plywood, 61 x 18 inches apiece
  • Plywood
  • Wood sealer
  • Scissors
  • Cardboard
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean your cinder blocks with water. You can use a power washer if you have access to one, or you can use a garden hose. You just want to remove any dirt or debris on your blocks. Allow them to dry for a full day.

    • 2

      Use spray paint to cover your blocks. You will need approximately 10 cans of spray paint to thoroughly coat them. If you prefer, you can also use latex paint. Either way, paint them a color that coordinates with your décor and allow them to dry completely.

    • 3

      Use outdoor wood stain to stain your 2 x 4s and your plywood. If you prefer, you can paint your wood instead using latex paint. Choose a color that appeals to you and coordinates well with your block color. Once the stain or paint is dry, apply an outdoor wood sealer, such as a deck sealer, to all the wood. The wood sealer will protect the wood against water damage. Let the sealer completely dry before proceeding.

    • 4

      Use scissors to cut out four pieces of cardboard. These will be placed between the first row of cinder blocks and your flooring. They will protect the carpet or flooring your tank sits on. They should be 8 x 16 inches to match the standard dimensions of cinder blocks. If your blocks are not a standard size, adjust the measurement.

    • 5

      Place your first row of four cinder blocks on the floor where you want your tank. Place the pieces of cardboard underneath the blocks. Place the blocks with the side with holes against the cardboard. The short side of the blocks should be facing the wall and the long sides should be parallel to one another. The blocks should be spaced eight inches apart. Make sure you don't place the blocks too close to the wall or you will not have room to run the wires from your tank's equipment. Leave at least a three-inch gap.

    • 6

      Place one of your plywood boards on top of the first row of cinder blocks. Center it. You will have an inch hanging over on the sides. This will make a shelf for you to store tank materials.

    • 7

      Stack the rest of your cinder blocks on top of the plywood. This will give you four rows of four cinder blocks each. Make sure to center the blocks on top of each other for the best weight distribution.

    • 8

      Space your 2 x 4s evenly on top of the cinder blocks. There will be approximately 1/2-inch between each board. Once your 2 x 4s are in place, place the last piece of plywood on top of them. Make sure it is centered before setting your aquarium on top of it. Make sure the aquarium is also centered over top of the cinder blocks. Once this is complete, you can set your tank up as you normally would.