Metal stand and oversized tank.

[PPulcher]

I picked up some used aquariums several months ago, and I haven't been able to find the time to get them set up. As we move into the holiday season, I'd like to get going on this.

The two tanks are both 36" long. One is 12" wide, the other is 18". The stand that came with the tanks is one of two tier those metal jobs. The previous owner had the larger tank on the top of the top tier of the stand resting on a very thick 1"+ (and heavy!!) piece of MDF to fit the bottom of the tank. This means that the front and back edge overlap the stand by about 3".

Normally, I would not want MDF near a tank, but this piece has been sealed very well and looks fine. There is no swelling evident, and the previous owner had used to for several years. I guess what I'm looking for is confirmation that using the MDF or another piece of plywood (laminated, and sealed perhaps) is suitable for supporting the tank on the top of the stand.

Function is more important than form, and this will be in the basement so I don't really care how it looks.

If push comes to shove, I can put something together with 2x lumber pretty quickly, but I would rather use what I've got on hand. Thoughts?

[KnaveTO]

If you are really worried you could put styrofoam under the tank and on top of the wood

[PPulcher]

Thanks Ross, good idea. I'm not so worried about possible unevenness. I think the MDF compresses just a bit, too. But boy, that piece is HEAVY!

My concern has more to do with the stability of having the tank overlap the metal at the front and back.

[blainep]

Is there enough room to put the wider tank on the lower shelf of the stand ?

That would help with stability.

I'm not a fan of MDF as well. I suppose if it is well sealed it would be fine, personally though, I'd prefer to replace it.

If the previous owner had no problems with it, you're probably fine. Maybe set up the tanks dry and see how stable it is.

Edit : Is there any easy way to drive 2 or 4 screws thru the stand into the MDF ? They would reduce any chance of the MDF slipping.

[thegrandpoohbah]

If you are worried then just ditch the MDF and get a 36" x 18" piece of 1" thick plywood.

[PPulcher]

I could put the wider tank on the bottom, but I'd like it on the top for better viewing. I could probably drive some screws, or add some bolts. I've go some double stick tape that I could use as well for when I put the tank up on the stand.

I think I'll probably replace the wood. The local home despot often has suitable offcuts available.