Hello all, I am relocating my fish tank soon and the comments on the other users post now has me questioning my floor support situation.
Currently, my 70 gallon fish tank (48” x 21” x 18”) is in the basement and I am looking to move it upstairs to the living room (1st photo). Water, tank, and all I am estimating it is 800-900lbs, but it will be placed in a generally supported area.
The second photo is the crawl space directly under where the tank will be going, and I highlighted the placement of the tank. Based on my measurement, it comes just short of that last joist next to my highlight, or it will be barely above it.
The third photo is in the basement, underneath that slightly elevated area you can see in the first photo. Not sure if that will help validate any support, but that’s what the tank will back up to.
The last photo is the tank in question, which I am going to have to completely empty with buckets and a crew of friends, then reassemble in the living room.
Any help is much appreciated, and I’m not opposed to buying a jack post or two if needed!
Posted by iGotCookiiez
3 Comments
I would reinforce it just so you’re not wondering about it.
I have a “pool cover pump” and it’s a little too powerful for the purpose of moving water from one tank to another, I always forget to secure the hose end and get a bunch of shit wet.
Here’s something more reasonable to help move the water [https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Bottling-Kombucha-Transfer-Adjustable/dp/B0F2DPRHY5/](https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Bottling-Kombucha-Transfer-Adjustable/dp/B0F2DPRHY5/)
I would not worry about it. The tank is catching 3 out of 4 of the structural supports, and the subfloor will carry the load across them. If you are nervous and want to be absolutely certain, run 2 2x4s on edge across all four of the 2x8s, one at the back of the tank and one at the front. Then frame down to the floor using 2x4s and CMUs.
If you do the support, be sure to remove it before going under contract to sell your house! Home inspectors can’t/won’t differentiate between a structural support that has been improperly installed and a temporary support designed to address an aquarium that does not have to meet code. Ask me how I know.
I would probably go to Menards or someplace and get those adjustable metal posts that go in basements under the joists. It would probably be fine without them, but with anything 55 gallon and over I would personally feel better with some extra support under the floor.
Let us know what you decide to do.