DIY stand - seal the wood? waterproof the bottom

[GuppyHJD]

Hi
I just built a basic 2x4 stand with a plywood top and base. Before I load the new tank on it, I am contemplating if I should seal the wood with a poly finish or something? I have also considered if I should waterproof the sump area with FlexSeal or even fiberglass resin, to make a 3" "tray" should anything drip or leak - your thoughts? suggestions?

ps - photo does not show the plywood in place...and we opted to paint the room before setting up the aquarium

 

[Eagle_Steve]

Hi
I just built a basic 2x4 stand with a plywood top and base. Before I load the new tank on it, I am contemplating if I should seal the wood with a poly finish or something? I have also considered if I should waterproof the sump area with FlexSeal or even fiberglass resin, to make a 3" "tray" should anything drip or leak - your thoughts? suggestions?

ps - photo does not show the plywood in place...and we opted to paint the room before setting up the aquarium

I seal all of my diy stand and make a tray out of the bottom.

I use flat white tractor paint from TSC, as it dries as hard as a rock, fills in gaps and saltwater can’t mess it up in any way. Being as it is designed for oil, gas and diesel exposure it is tough.

For the bottom, I usually use white flex seal after the paint is dry.

Takes about 3 days to fully cure for the paint, but is hard as a rock afterwards.

 

[driftin]

I use PVC shower liner to water proof the sump area of my stand - works GREAT and is inexpesnsive.

 

[Devaji]

I would. I have stained my stands the a few coats of poly come out very nice.

if you are thinking about painting the wall behind do it before the tank is up. just encase you where getting excited about your new tank

 

[nickman]

You could also use pond liner in the bottom of the stand to create a basin to catch spills, drips, etc. This wouldn't require you to put a bottom on the stand. The only concern would be water making its way under that liner and staining your grout. The tile should be fine.
As for painting the frame, I usually just use a 1 part epoxy paint but many options will work. Provided there isnt standing water on the wood it should hold up for the long run. I worry more about protecting the metal screws than anything. Saltwater doesnt seem to rot wood nearly as quickly as freshwater, especially if the environment is dry.
I would also consider adding a bit of extra protection to the wall and trim behind the tank. Drywall deteriorates quickly when exposed to water and using a base coat of waterproof paint will likely prolong the life of the wall and paint.