Cinder block stand

00kevin

Piranha
MFK Member
Nov 2, 2011
201
145
76
NJ
I've used several cinder block stands.

3) do not stack cinder blocks more than 3 high.
That's a great idea about the 2x4's glued to the plywood. I'll revise my stand plans to include that now. It'll make the setup easier when I have to lift the 700+lb tank and move onto the stand

On that note, why not more than 3 high? I was planning on 4 high, as I have to fit a 125 underneath

thanks
 

nzafi

Goliath Tigerfish
MFK Member
Mar 14, 2008
2,177
1,236
179
USA
That's a great idea about the 2x4's glued to the plywood. I'll revise my stand plans to include that now. It'll make the setup easier when I have to lift the 700+lb tank and move onto the stand

On that note, why not more than 3 high? I was planning on 4 high, as I have to fit a 125 underneath

thanks
I dont know what your budget is, but if you are in north jersey (which it seems like you are), I highly recommend you talk to jsodwi jsodwi about him building you a steel stand. Done them for multiple MFK members, high quality work (do a search and you will find many pics), and very well priced. I will be using him for my big tank in the near future.
 
  • Like
Reactions: jaws7777

RD.

Gold Tier VIP
MFK Member
May 9, 2007
13,385
13,148
3,360
65
Northwest Canada
The blocks are strongest for supporting loads with the hollow spaces vertical. Not horizontal.
+1

I have seen a LOT of cinder block stands over the years where the structural integrity was weakened by incorrect cinder set up. Also, no need to have the center supported if your tank has a plastic brace on the bottom. Seems sketchy to look at, but most aquarium stands are designed to only support the 4 corners. Oceanic, All-Glass, Aqueon, etc. But the Doc's suggestion is a good one too.
 

xraycer

Arapaima
MFK Member
Sep 5, 2013
5,383
2,571
203
Southern NH USA
This is my 90gal ghetto tank, I'd set up over 3yrs ago, and still rock solid.
Back in early 2000, I had a tank on a cinder block stand, 6 high, but it was only a 40gal.
20160412_174623.jpg 20150915_155957.jpg 20150915_155923.jpg
 

00kevin

Piranha
MFK Member
Nov 2, 2011
201
145
76
NJ
+1
Also, no need to have the center supported if your tank has a plastic brace on the bottom. Seems sketchy to look at, but most aquarium stands are designed to only support the 4 corners. Oceanic, All-Glass, Aqueon, etc. But the Doc's suggestion is a good one too.
My tank is custom made, so there's no brace on the bottom. Although there is a piece of stock to reinforce the corner. Does this mean I should have support for the entire perimeter?

tank5.jpg
 

RD.

Gold Tier VIP
MFK Member
May 9, 2007
13,385
13,148
3,360
65
Northwest Canada
Kevin - I would. I would also add a sheet of foam over the sheet of plywood. It's always best to check with manufacturers when/if possible, most will void any type of warranty if you don't follow their recommendations.
 
  • Like
Reactions: deeda

Leebtattoos

Polypterus
MFK Member
Jul 18, 2012
508
338
87
Lampasas, Texas
I’m late to the party but I’ve used cinder blocks on several tanks over the years. Ranging from 75-200. All used 1/2 or 3/4 plywood on top of the blocks.

The foam is sometimes a pain, but it’s a good idea for sure because leveling blocks is not super easy so it gives you a little buffer. Plus manufacturer warranties if
 

RD.

Gold Tier VIP
MFK Member
May 9, 2007
13,385
13,148
3,360
65
Northwest Canada
If the tank has plastic trim, most manufacturers will void warranty if one uses foam. It does not act as a level if the tank has plastic trim. Just so that's clear, foam should only be used when the tank is custom made, with a flat rimless bottom.
 
zoomed.com
hikariusa.com
aqaimports.com
Store