Particle Board Stand?

Just bought a new tank last night. A 120 gallon, 60x20x24 tank off of craigslist.

The guy had it listed as tank/stand and lights included.

I get over to his place with a buddy and we notice the stand is made out of just particle board. The guy said he had his tank on top of that stand and running for over a year.

I do not want to use particle board to support my tank, but instead of just buying a new stand can I reinforce the old stand with 2x4's on the inside and bottom of the stand for support?


A light question to come later. As I need help with that too.

 

Im sure my cabinet is made from particle board Clarky
but it does have braces on the 4 inside edges and across the top

not sure, but congrats on the tank , it sounds great
Steve

 

I have had a particle board stand for my 75 planted for over 3 years no problem. Adding the 2X4's will only strengthen it.

 

I really doubt this tank isn't braced with 2x4's at least. No way it could support the weight of a 120 otherwise.

Look inside the stand. If there's no 2x4's or 4x4's making a frame, I would not use it.

Reinforcements can always be made if necessary.

 

The stand for my first 55 gal was just particle board. The strength of particle board is fine if it doesn't get wet. Before setting up your tank paint the inside with a waterproof paint/polyurethane/lacquer. I can't remember what I used 20 years ago but water beaded up on it. I had several floods and spills in that stand and never had a problem. If I didn't protect it it would have been toast.

 

Definately no 2x4's or 4x4's in the stand. I think I'll just reinforce the stand with a couple of 2x4's for support and to defend against lateral movement.

 

Good idea!

Not saying that particle board can't do the job, but a 120, after sand, rock and water will be extreme for particle board, unless it has some backbone.

You should take advantage of this opportunity and build your own "Built to fit equipment" stand

 

I built my own canopy. I wasn't too worried about that because all it did was lay on the top of the tank. If I messed that up no big deal. If I mess up a stand and it for some reason gives out I would never hear the end of it.

Reinforcing is also the most cost effective solution.

 

Had my 65g on particle board, its fine until it gets wet. After a year of water damage it looked not so secure. I moved and sold the tank so it was not an issue. I have a 90g now that is on a stand that is very very light and feels like its made from straws, but the 4 2x4s on the edges do support the tank (not sure how well but hopefully good enough) I got my on craigslist too and was very vary of using it but thank god its still stands.

 

I will never use a particle board stand again. I thought everything was fine, but then when I moved I swear the stand was pulled apart by hand. I was like "How was this holding the tank up!!!" That's after about 10 years.