Doc's Discus Den

[Doc_Polit]

I had all but disappeared from the hobby due to home renos and shifting priorities. I am finally returning to the hobby and planning my first Discus tank.

[dean9922]

great job so far...keep posting pictures as it progresses!!!

[fattubwhale]

Looking good! Cant wait to see the finished product :D

[Darrell Ward]

Serious overkill. (Looks like something I would do, making the darn stand heavier than the tank! LOL!) You gonna use plywood for the sheathing? Last one I did, I used 5/8" tongue and groove bead board because I had a bunch of it lying around. Looked good, but also added a lot of weight.

[Doc_Polit]

Thanks for the feedback.

I am gonna try to keep the plywood to a minimum due to the weight issue. Going with stained ply "inserts" on the sides and a removable front panel. That is why the "beefy" frame.

No if only my job would stop interfering, I could finish this project. LOL!

[Doc_Polit]

Well, after completing the frame for a stand to accommodate my 120 gallon, I sold it to another fishkeeper as my wife and I are renovating and considered the possibility of a built-in tank instead. I had a contractor friend evaluate the new plan but it would not work out due to structural issues. So.....time to build another frame. This one is nearly identical to the one I just sold but with slight variances based on which materials I had on hand.

I nearly managed to get it completed in a single afternoon. Of course, having ample power tools (not to mention practice) speeds up the process immensely.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739609.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739606.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739580.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739578.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739581.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739570.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739593.jpg

This time around, I decided to invest the time to remove the "crown" from all of the 2x4's. This involves removing the width of the blade on both sides of the plank and ensures much truer lumber to build with.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739594.jpg

I decided to go with a slightly larger base as I had 1x6's available as opposed to 1x4's.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739576.jpg

The bottom deck is 3/8" mdf which will be sealed to prevent swell from moisture.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739577.jpg

Again, dowels were used (although larger 3/8" dowels) to beef up leg attachment as well as Kreg pocket screws.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739592.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739595.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739586.jpg

The legs are on, straight and true.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739602.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739605.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397739601.jpg

That is where I ran out of energy and hours. Construction and addition of top frame takes place tomorrow.

[William Palumbo]

WOW Doc!...That's some SERIOUS woodworking! Looks fantastic. I can see why you ran out of energy...LOL...Will look great when done I'm sure...Bill

[Skip]

where are the pics in first post :(

[Gillmann]

Looks great! Nice to see someone not too far away getting back into the hobby - as I did about a year and a half ago!

[Doc_Polit]

where are the pics in first post :(

Pictures were removed as they were of the stand that I just sold.

[Doc_Polit]

I made some progress on the stand tonight before a storm knocked out our power. Tough to build in the dark.

Got the basic top frame on.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397755331.jpg

Added some structural support on the back side.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397755336.jpg

View from the front.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397755333.jpg

View from the back.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397755332.jpg

Structure is complete.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397755335.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397755337.jpg

Skinning should start tomorrow. :p

[Chunks]

Wow it's looking great! Your doing well, I don't like this phase of setting up. I'm painting my stand at the moment and it's driving me nuts, I just can't wait for it to be done already!

[Doc_Polit]

Wow it's looking great! Your doing well, I don't like this phase of setting up. I'm painting my stand at the moment and it's driving me nuts, I just can't wait for it to be done already!

I agree. Painting is no fun at all.

I put in a short evening in the shop tonight. I am getting a little burned out. I managed to start the skinning process anyway.

First, I added 2 more supports to prevent racking.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397768383.jpg

Then, I ripped down 1x10 in to strips of 1/2" x 3/4".
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397768388.jpg

I mounted the strips on the back side of 1/2" oak plywood panels.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397768387.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397768384.jpg

The panels were then fastened (brad nailed) flush with the sides as "inserts".
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397768385.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397768390.jpg

Here is the view from beside the stand. Not sure why the oak looks so strange in this shot.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397768386.jpg

Stay tuned. More to come later in the week.

[Disgirl]

Norm (This Old House, PBS) would give you the thumbs up on your work Doc!
Barb

[Doc_Polit]

Norm (This Old House, PBS) would give you the thumbs up on your work Doc!
Barb

Thanks a lot!

[Doc_Polit]

In order to give the inside of the stand a "finished" appearance, I decided to line it with 1/4" MDF which will be primed and painted to protect it against moisture.

Here is how the back looks now.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397834764.jpg

A closer look.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397834762.jpg

A look at a side.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397834767.jpg

I even trimmed out the bottom lip.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397834763.jpg

Then, all of the seams were sealed with Mono Ultra Exterior (Paintable) Caulking.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397834765.jpg

http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397834766.jpg

Next comes the priming and painting of the interior. I really dislike painting. :mad:

[Jason K.]

built to last! nice work so far...

[Doc_Polit]

built to last! nice work so far...

Thanks! :)

[Chunks]

I don't envy the painting part, all the best with it :)

[Doc_Polit]

The primer is done and, man, I am glad that is over with. :p

Before I primed, I decided to build the removable panel that will form the front of the stand.

I used a frame of fir 2x2's and then glued and brad nailed a 1/2" oak plywood panel to it.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397861709.jpg

Here is a closer look.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397861703.jpg

Although the panel will be held in place by rare earth magnets, I flush fitted it for this photo.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397861712.jpg

That's all for now. Paint goes on the interior tomorrow. ;)

[Chunks]

Thanks for your comments on my thread. I'm following your thread waiting for progress updates! Love the DIY your doing!

[Doc_Polit]

Glad to have you following along.

I got the paint on the interior and it is drying as we speak. I'll add updated pics once I make some more progress.

[unijabass]

Wow, wish I had skill and space and tools and...:)

[Doc_Polit]

Heh......Heh......Thanks!

I made a little more progress over the last 2 days so time to update.

The interior, top frame and back of the stand were sealed with a coat of Behr Premium Plus Interior Enamel Undercoater, Sealer and Primer. Then I added 2 coats of Behr Premium Plus Interior/Exterior Porch & Floor paint tinted to a shade called "Brazil Nut". It should go really nicely with the brown tones being applied to the exterior trim.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397915725.jpg

I also added peel & stick floor tiles to the deck that will hold my sump filter.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397915746.jpg

Once the tiles were down, I again lined the perimeter with Mono Ultra caulking to add to the water resistance. Here is a closer look.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397915709.jpg

Then it was time to begin exterior finishing. I hand sanded the oak inserts and door panel with 180 grit sand paper and removed the dust with a damp rag. Once dry, I applied 1 coat of Varathane "American Walnut".
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397915755.jpg

Here is a look at one side insert.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397915782.jpg

And here is the door panel so far.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/397915771.jpg

Both side inserts and the door panel will get a second coat of stain later today.

That's all for now .:bandana:

[Doc_Polit]

Just a little bit of progress this week. I am on holidays and spending time with my sons before they go back to their Mom's and get ready for school to start.

The door panel fits flush but will be secured in place by magnets. I countersunk rare earth magnets into the side and bottom pillars.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398042480.jpg

I installed a double width magnetic latch on the top of the door opening.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398042487.jpg

Since the door panel and side inserts have been stained, it is time to protect against water. Here is my product of choice.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398042478.jpg

I have put on 4 coats and will allow to fully cure. Here is a peek of the door panel now.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398042477.jpg

I have been working on the balance of the stand as well. I have picked up a bunch of oak hardwood, cut to length/width and used my orbital sander to hit it with 180 grit and then 220 grit.

Stay tuned for future updates! :o

[SomethingFishy]

thank you!

[Northwoods Discus]

Solid looking and will last forever. I have to ask. What is the difference between a "rare earth" magnet and a regular old magnet?
Bill

[snert]

"rare earth" magnet = much more powerful

[Doc_Polit]

Thanks for the kind words. Another update...

Now that the Diamond Finish has fully cured, it is time to continue work on the door panel.

I picked up a cool (relatively new) product by Rustoleum. This is just what I need to help hold the door panel in place.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398100177.jpg

Here is the door panel with 2 coats of magnetic primer.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398100179.jpg

To complete the stand, I picked up up Saman Wood Finish (Cocoa). Rather than a stain, it is actually a tinted clear coat. I am going for an espresso look so I figure 3-4 coats will be needed on my oak hardwood.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398100180.jpg

Here is a portion of the hardwood after the first coat.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398100175.jpg

Here is a closer look.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398100172.jpg

The Saman goes on with a grease consistency and is brushed on and off. It is a lot of work but worth the rich appearance.

Catch'ya soon. :bandana:

[Chunks]

Wow the attention to detail is amazing!


---
I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=-34.425251,150.895695

[Doc_Polit]

Thanks Chunks!

Well, I had one large setback on this project. I thought I had saved myself some work by utilizing the Saman one-step finish.......wrong! The first coat went on great but successive coats became increasingly difficult and blotchy. So......I became a stripper..........furniture stripper that is. :p

I managed to find some Varathane stain (Espresso) to use in place of the Saman but the issue became getting my hardwood back to it's original state.

I picked up a chemical stripper yesterday and went to work.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398138815.jpg

Stripping paint, stain, etc is always messy. I had to apply 2 coats but this stuff worked well and had no harsh odor. After 3 hours, the previous stain was all but gone.

Here is how the oak looks now.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398138818.jpg

Now to get re-acquainted with my trusty finish sander. I am going to hit every board (once again) with 120 grit sandpaper and then 180 grit to re-open the grain. The end caps will all get a go with 220 grit. I hope to have the sanding finished tomorrow night.

On a more positive note, the door panel looks pretty good now that I added a matching topcoat over the magnetic primer.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398138813.jpg

Well......back to work. :mad:

[Doc_Polit]

Well the staining process had more *&$#!@* surprises in store for me. The Espresso stain that I had ordered from the Home Hardware warehouse had not only sat on a dusty shelf for....oh....35 years but the can had a small puncture that I discovered after I had coated some of the oak hardwood in the slop. The exposure to air had completely ruined the stain.

So....I dug out the finish sander AGAIN and hit the boards with 150 grit to re-open the grain. I had all but given up on the staining idea and was considering paint when I came across exactly what I was looking for.

Kona stain by Varathane.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398185180.jpg

Finally....after 2 coats I have the espresso look that I have been trying to achieve. Here is a peek at some of the boards laid out to dry.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398185185.jpg

Here is a closer look. I love how the grain in the oak is muted yet visible.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398185192.jpg

Tomorrow the fun starts. Fastening the hardwood to the stand frame. Rather than use wood glue, I am using a MUCH stronger adhesive.
LePage PL9000 Heavy Duty (Quick Grab) Construction Adhesive and micro pins (air nailed).
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398185179.jpg

I will take pictures throughout the process. Stay tuned. :)

[Doc_Polit]

I got both sides nearly completed tonight.

Here is a sneak peek.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398197624.jpg

http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398197625.jpg

I hope to finish the front and door panel shortly.

[Chunks]

It's going to be one amazing fish tank stand. Do you have the tank yet? What are the dimensions of it?


---
I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=-34.421181,150.892216

[Doc_Polit]

It's going to be one amazing fish tank stand. Do you have the tank yet? What are the dimensions of it?

Thanks. I do have the tank. It is 48"x24"x24".


The stand frame is essentially complete. All that remains is another coat or 2 of Diamond Finish. Check it out.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398282826.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398282823.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398282821.jpg

I added strips of anti-fatigue foam mat(carpeted) as a buffer between the bottom tank trim and the stand. This will also allow the tank (heavy) to slide easily into place.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398282827.jpg

Here is how it looks from the top.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398282825.jpg

I finished the door panel but my wife and I are not happy with how it turned out so we will be re-designing it soon.

In the meantime, I started working on the tank itself. Not much to update. Here is how the tank trim looked after it met my Dremel cutting wheel.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398282828.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398282829.jpg

More updates coming soon.

[zimmjeff]

one of the nicest looking stands that i have seen.

[Rummy]

Absolutely beautiful workmanship. Keep those updates coming.

[Doc_Polit]

one of the nicest looking stands that i have seen.

Absolutely beautiful workmanship. Keep those updates coming.

Thanks a lot zimmjeff and Rummy! I really appreciate the great feedback.

I am in the process of building a new door panel and hope to add more pics in the next couple of days.

[Doc_Polit]

With the long weekend came an opportunity to get working on my new door panel.

Here it is being test fit in the frame.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398366576.jpg

Here is a look at the structure. It is fir 1x2 and 1/4" oak plywood.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398366578.jpg

Because the new door panel is slimmer (and lighter :o) countersunk magnets would not align properly. As a result, I fashioned these "L-brackets" out of steel nailing strips. They work like a charm.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398366575.jpg

The first coat of stain is now on the door panel and the oak 1x2 trim.

As an aside, I thought that I would be making my own DIY wet/dry sump but that plan changed this weekend. I picked up a gently used Schuran Filter-Rack S1 sump for an amazing price. At 1/16th of what it sells for new (in the UK) I had to grab it.

Check it out.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398366580.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398366581.jpg
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398366594.jpg

The bio-tower even has a rotating spray bar.
http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398366602.jpg

More to come in a few days.

[Chunks]

Wow that's a great sump! Tell us the price?

That stand is going to out live you!

[Doc_Polit]

Wow that's a great sump! Tell us the price?

That stand is going to out live you!

LOL! It is built to last for certain.

I paid $150 Canadian. They sell new for nearly $1600 Canadian. I had to have it!

[Gillmann]

Where did you find it for $150? Great deal!

[Doc_Polit]

Where did you find it for $150? Great deal!

I actually got it from a member on Canreef. The guy is in Calgary too.

[Doc_Polit]

Well.........the stand is done!

http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398483862.jpg

http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2236/9978639/23851459/398483870.jpg

Now to finish the tank and plumbing. :bandana:

[dacevedom]

Wow... that stand looks awesome

[MightyEvil]

Yes, that stand has the WOW factor! Looks perfect as it is but I am wondering what it would look like with some molding at the bottom...

[Doc_Polit]

Wow... that stand looks awesome


Yes, that stand has the WOW factor! Looks perfect as it is but I am wondering what it would look like with some molding at the bottom...

Thanks a lot! I stayed away from molding because the stand matches the "clean lines" of our other espresso colored furniture.

[Cevoe]

Been watching this build from the beginning.
Great job.
Looking forward to seeing the tank and the fish too.

[Doc_Polit]

Been watching this build from the beginning.
Great job.
Looking forward to seeing the tank and the fish too.

Much appreciated, Chris! :bandana:

[MightyEvil]

Thanks a lot! I stayed away from molding because the stand matches the "clean lines" of our other espresso colored furniture.

Makes sense.