336 gal project

primereefaquatics · #1 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 02:37 AM

Here is the new stand and canopy I built for a new 336 gal living room aquarium I am setting up for a client of mine.
The doors will be installed after I make them.
I will add pictures as it progresses.
I am setting up this for a reef and fish aquarium. The deminsions are 60Lx36Hx36W. It will have starphire front glass.

MDPinUSA · #2 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 04:11 AM

Looks like good design and workmanship.

Thomas · #3 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 10:12 AM

Looks great. I built my stand out of oak and the tank sits down in a trimmed area. Saltwater getting on that 3/4" piece. I wonder if there is a better solution for this. The oak looks beautiful but that salt will take its tole. I used several layers of poly for a finish. This apparently doesn't hold up to well to saltwater.
What are you using to protect the wood?

primereefaquatics · #4 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 11:34 AM

Your right, the only wood that really is affected though is the 3/4 trim. I haven't finished it off with poly. I was going to use a non toxic epoxy finish on the inside. I havent' done this research yet. If there are any suggestions out there I would like to know.

Thomas · #5 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 10:54 PM

Thats what I've been thinking about too. I thought perhaps I could sand off the very top of the cabinet and restain a coat or two. Then add an epoxy type finish. I guess the best thing to do in my situation would be to make a sample board and keep spaying saltwater on the finish to see how it holds up. Sounds like a pain in the butt though.
The other thing I wish I would have done is making one or both of the side panels removable. I saw a cabinet done this way because it was a hell of a lot easier to add the sump after cabinet was finished. I now am doing a regimen of lemon oil weekly to keep the cabinet pristine. My inside walls also look bad because of the salt spray ( overflows ). I may add thin plexiglass sheets to the sides. Good luck with your project and keep the pictures coming. So many people want to know how to build a nice cabinet.

primereefaquatics · #6 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 11:00 PM

I have been doing some research and I found out that you can ue a top coat epoxy finish which they use on the deck of a boat for saltwater. There are different grades and pricing available. I am inquiring into seeing if there is a clear coat epoxy. There is a bottom of boat epoxy which is ideal except it has copper added to aid in preventing barnacle and what not adhering to the boat. I will most likely use the top coat poly epoxy used for the deck of the boats.

ChuckG · #7 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 11:30 PM

Great Work. Looks better than anything you see at the LFS's.

primereefaquatics · #8 (**permalink**) 03-08-2008, 03:04 PM

Thanks Chuck. When you can take your time it really helps. One thing I had to do is buy some additional tools. I am working on the doors now. I am waiting for a particular router bit.

Thomas, when I mess with my aquarium I place a towel on the trim to soak up any water. It is a little inconvenient but I have one over my shoulder as to dry my arms and hands. I want to epoxy the inside of the canopy to prevent fish and return water splash.

**ReefSilly** · #9 (**permalink**) 03-13-2008, 02:00 PM

Quote:

I will most likely use the top coat poly epoxy used for the deck of the boats.

Thats a great ideal; is it clear?
Stand and canopy looks good.

primereefaquatics · #10 (**permalink**) 03-13-2008, 02:54 PM

I have to contact my industrial supplier. I believe there is a clear product though.
The tank comes in next week. Pictures to follow.