How to Make a Wall Mount for a Fish Tank

Wall-mounted fish tanks are ideal for rooms with limited floor space. As these aquariums are typically mounted at an adult̵7;s chest height, they prevent children from putting their hands into the tank. Wall-mounted aquariums are available in many different sizes and shapes, and you can install them yourself. It is important to realize, though, that water, glass and sand are heavy and that even a small fish tank will weigh over 100 pounds.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Calculator
  • Level
  • Permanent marker
  • Mortar drill and bits
  • Plastic wall plugs
  • ̶0;L̶1;-shaped wall bracket
  • Screws
  • Screwdriver
  • Precut Styrofoam
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate a wall that is not close to a heat source. The room should not be too cold. Ensure that a power source is close to the spot where you will place the aquarium.

    • 2

      Choose a position on the wall that is approximately chest height to the person who will be responsible for cleaning the aquarium and for feeding the fish. Ensure that neither electrical wires nor water pipes run behind the wall at the height you choose to secure your aquarium.

    • 3

      Calculate the overall weight of the aquarium. To determine the gallon capacity of the fish tank, multiply length by height by width in inches and divide the answer by 231. One gallon of water weighs 8.34 pounds.

    • 4

      Ask an assistant to hold the bracket against the wall at the height you have chosen. Place a level on the ledge of the bracket. Mark where the screws will go with a permanent marker.

    • 5

      Use a mortar drill to make holes for the screws that will secure the bracket to the wall.

    • 6

      Place a plastic plug into each hole.

    • 7

      Ask your assistant to hold the bracket against the wall and put the screws in place. Use a screwdriver to drive the screws into the wall. Use the level to check once more that the bracket is level.

    • 8

      Place a 1/2-inch thick piece of Styrofoam on the ledge of the bracket. The Styrofoam will compensate for any minor irregularities on the surface of the wooden ledge, which could cause the base of the aquarium to crack if it were placed directly on to the wood.

    • 9

      Position the aquarium on the Styrofoam.