DIY Cinder Block Aquarium Stand

When setting up an aquarium, you need a number of supplies, including a tank, filter and aquarium stand. Stands are available commercially that are made to support the weight an aquarium when filled. However, these stands can be very expensive. If you choose a cheaper model, you may have a problem with stability. Instead of spending money on a questionable stand, you make your own aquarium stand at home using cinder blocks and wood that is not only inexpensive but much more stable.

Things You'll Need

  • Garden hose
  • Cinder block
  • Paint
  • Paint brush
  • Sandpaper
  • 4 2-by-4s, 50 inches long each
  • 2 sheets of 1/4-inch plywood, 50 inches long each
  • Polyurethane sealer
  • Cardboard
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a garden hose or power washer to clean nine cinder blocks. This will clean any debris off your cinder blocks if they are something you have had laying around. If you are purchasing new cinder blocks from the store, this will remove any dust that may have gathered while the blocks were shipped and stored. Allow the blocks to dry completely. This is easily accomplished by leaving the blocks out in the sun for a day.

    • 2

      Paint your cinder blocks. You can do this one of two ways. The first option is to use a paintbrush and latex paint. The other option is to use spray paint. If you choose to spray paint, you probably will need seven or eight cans of spray paint to ensure you thoroughly cover all the blocks and get into the pits and crevices of the blocks. Allow the paint to dry completely. If you would like, you can paint the blocks all one color or use a combination of coordination colors. You also can paint pictures or stencil shapes on the blocks for added décor.

    • 3

      Use sandpaper to sand the piece of plywood. You want to remove any rough spots, and this will make it easier to paint your wood. Do the same to your 2-by-4s.

    • 4

      Paint your plywood and 2-by-4s. You can use any color you would like. Choose a color that coordinates well with your cinder blocks. You also could choose to stain if you prefer. Once the paint, or stain, has dried, seal the wood with a polyurethane sealer. This will help protect the wood against water damage. Allow the sealer to dry.

    • 5

      Cut three pieces of cardboard. The cardboard pieces should be 8-by-16 inches. These will fit underneath your cinder blocks to help protect your carpet. Place the three pieces of cardboard on the floor where you want your aquarium stand positioned. Space the cardboard pieces 8 inches apart. You want the 8-inch sides in line with the wall and the 16-inch sides parallel with one another. Make sure the cardboard is spaced at least 2 inches from the wall to allow for room for your filter cables to hang.

    • 6

      Place one cinder block on top of each of the cardboard pieces. Lay one of the pieces of plywood on top of the cinder blocks. It will stick out about 3/4-inch on the ends. Place a second row of cinder blocks on top of the plywood. Make sure the cinder blocks are lined up directly above the lower layer. Add the third row of cinder blocks on top of the second, also making sure they are lined up.

    • 7

      Place your 2-by-4s on top of the last row of cinder blocks. Space them easily to help distribute the weight of the aquarium when it is placed on top. Place the last piece of plywood on top of this.

    • 8

      Place your aquarium on top of the plywood and center it over the cinder blocks. Set your aquarium up as you normally would.