I'm building an aquarium stand that needs to support around 600 lbs, and I have some questions about materials:
1. What size screws should I use? I've seen recommendations for #8 screws that are either 2.5 or 3 inches long, which would work best with 2x4 lumber?
2. Is using 2x4 lumber sufficient for this weight, or do I need something stronger?
3. I recently bought some #8 2.5 inch flathead Phillips screws, but I seem to be stripping them as I screw them in—am I doing something wrong, or are they just low quality?
4. Are standard wood screws okay for this project, or should I consider something else?
4 Answers
You should definitely be using construction screws instead of regular wood screws! And while a 2x4 could work for your stand, it really depends on your specific design.
Considering you're planning on supporting about 65-70 gallons or so, traditional wood screws aren't going to cut it. Actually, I'd advise using specialized screws like Headlok or even carriage bolts since they provide extra strength. You might think it's a bit pricier, but it's worth it compared to the potential damage from a collapsed stand. Make sure your stand is well-braced to avoid any racking forces. Trust me, over-engineering the stand is better; I've seen disasters happen when people cheap out!
When designing aquarium stands, remember that the weight is supported by the wood itself, not the screws. Use 2x4s or 2x6s for the structure, and screws are mainly there to prevent flexing. As long as your design is solid, screws aren't the primary concern. I’ve seen some thorough design calculations before, but I can't recall the exact source for them right now.
Totally agree! It's better to focus on the load distribution through the wood rather than stressing over the screws.
That makes sense! Here’s the design I found and am trying to follow: [DIY 55-Gallon Tank Stand](https://www.fishlore.com/aquariumfishforum/threads/diy-55-gallon-tank-stand-wip.138730/)
I recommend looking up 'aquarium stand designs' for better insights. I usually use 3" #9 screws for 2x lumber; they work great for projects like garage shelves, though they might be overkill for your stand. 2.5" screws are less likely to poke out the other side. If you're looking for easier installation, consider using star drive screws.
I found a design that I'm using too! Check it out: [DIY 55-Gallon Tank Stand](https://www.fishlore.com/aquariumfishforum/threads/diy-55-gallon-tank-stand-wip.138730/)