JonoDatInvento's First DIY Stand: 55 Gallon Planted Aquarium Stand

[JonoDatInvento]

Ok cool. I'm going to keep it natural. I think my parents would like it that way too.
I didn't know top layers of wood would (ba dum tss) absorb the water and keep anything else from coming in! I thought that was only if you painted it or did something else like that to it!

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[Ruutah]

Lol yeah something like that. Go back and read what I wrote.

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[Fishobsessed7]

With the money save by using regular wood I'd recommend making a stand for the 25 also. I wouldn't trust what you have it on now. Without support on the corners the chances of the tank breaking is so much higher.


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[JonoDatInvento]

Yeah. I think that's a good idea too. I'm not comfortable with it on a desk...
Oh Ruutah, it says yep. Oops. 😃😁😂

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[JonoDatInvento]

Quick question, how deep should the soil substrate be, then the gravel substrate, then how deep should the whole thing be?

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[JonoDatInvento]

Here is the substrate:
Looks at little bit like pool sand...

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[JonoDatInvento]

And I think I heard you're not supposed to use carbon in your filter for a planted fish tank... Is this true?

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[JonoDatInvento]

Anyone know how to stain wood? I'm going to paint/stain it to about an oak color. Could anyone recommend anything? I don't know if I'm painting or stunning or anything.

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[Fresh2o]

Originally Posted by JonoDatInvento

And I think I heard you're not supposed to use carbon in your filter for a planted fish tank... Is this true?

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It supposedly adsorbs nutrients that the plants can use. Not sure how valid that is, but carbon can exhaust itself pretty quickly so it may be a moot point. Typically it is best used for removing medicines and toxins.
For water clarity, Purigen is a great product that is has been reported to not remove plant nutrients/fertilizers.

Originally Posted by JonoDatInvento

Anyone know how to stain wood? I'm going to paint/stain it to about an oak color. Could anyone recommend anything? I don't know if I'm painting or stunning or anything.

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I usually apply stain with a paint brush or paint sponge and then wipe off the excess with a clean piece of cloth (e.g. - old t-shirt).
It's best to test it out on a spare piece of wood or in an inconspicuous spot first. Allow proper ventilation and use drop cloths.


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[Ruutah]

Stain is best done with a sponge or foam brush. Use disposable gloves and do it out on the grass. As drips can stain concrete as well.

YouTube is your friend here for a demonstration on it. Or if Home Depot is close enough check to see if they have any workshops on painting and staining. They're usually on Saturday mornings.

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