How big before we need an engineer?

[ReeferReefer]

So I have been looking around for a new tank on the second hand market and I'm looking to go bigger. So after finding a great looking 225 gallon tank, it's got me wondering when is it too big?

At what weight do you considering having an engineer evaluate your space for the weight capacity?

 

[lapin]

It really depends on what sort of foundation your home is on and how it is constructed. Also what floor its on. If you have the plans for your house an evaluation is easy. Most people do not have these and have no idea what walls are load bearing and which way supports and stringers run. 200 gallons at 8 lbs a gallon = 1600 lbs. A properly designed ground floor can support 50 pounds per square foot. A floor joist at 16” spacing’s that can carry 53 pounds per linear foot would translate into a 318 pound single point load at its center. The old trick for water beds was to place them on a piece of plywood to distribute the weight over a greater area. We have the problem of deflection that can cause big problems with a leaning tank. Long story short, if in doubt ,have it checked out.

 

[davocean]

^^ Pretty much sums it up.
Slab, raised foundation, 1st floor or above that, all different answers

 

[Bob Lauson]

I had an engineer come look at my hose since it was on the first floor above a basement. My tank was a 180 gallon. The engineer recommended doubling up the floor joists below the aquarium which I did.