DIY 55-Gallon Fish Tank Stands

Choosing the right aquarium stand can be difficult. Stands for fish tanks must be stable and able to safely support the weight of a filled aquarium. The larger the tank, the harder this becomes. You can choose from among a number of aquarium stands at your local pet supply store, but these stands can be expensive. And if you do find a stand at a bargain price, you might be sacrificing strength and stability for economy. One solution is to make your own aquarium stand to ensure that it's both strong and inexpensive.

Things You'll Need

  • 9 clean cinder blocks
  • 8 cans of spray paint
  • Garden hose
  • Sandpaper
  • 2 sheets of 1/4 inch plywood, each 50 inches long
  • 4 two-by-fours, each 50 inches long
  • Paintbrush
  • Outdoor grade wood stain
  • Deck sealant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use the spray paint to spray an even coating of paint on all nine cinder blocks. If the blocks aren't clean before you begin painting, use a garden hose to spray any dirt or debris away. Let the blocks dry completely before proceeding. Spray all sides of the blocks thoroughly. You'll need to use at least two coats, and possibly three, to completely cover the pits and rough surface of the blocks. Choose any color that coordinates with your decor. Allow the paint to dry completely.

    • 2

      Sand the plywood and two-by-fours with sandpaper to make them easier to stain. Use a clean dry paintbrush to brush away the sawdust and grit.

    • 3

      Use a wood stain rated for the outdoors to stain and seal the plywood and two-by-four boards. Allow the stain to dry completely, then apply an outdoor deck sealant to the lumber according to the product directions. Allow the sealant to dry completely. The sealant will protect the lumber from water damage.

    • 4

      Place three cinder blocks on the floor where you want to set your tank. Position them open side down, with the short sides parallel to the wall. Space the blocks 16 inches apart from one another and two to three inches away from the wall. Leaving space in front of the wall allows you room to accommodate the tank's wiring or equipment that might protrude from the back of the aquarium.

    • 5

      Place one of the plywood sheets on top of the three positioned cinder blocks and center it. This board forms a shelf you can use for your aquarium supplies.

    • 6

      Place a second row of cinder blocks on top of the positioned plywood sheet, and center them directly over the lower level of blocks. Place the final three blocks on top of the second row, again centering them on the blocks beneath.

    • 7

      Place all four of the two-by-fours on top of the last layer of cinder blocks, laying the four-inch side flat on the blocks. Center the boards horizontally, and space them evenly across the blocks. On top of the two-by-fours, place the second sheet of plywood, and your stand is complete.