How to Make a Fish Tank Table

Pick the material you want the table to be made out of. Usually, wood is the best material to use because it is versatile, sturdy and reliable. However, you can substitute this for metal or another like material. Have enough material of whatever type of material you chose on hand to build the table.

Craft the top of the table. It will need to be relatively thick, depending on the size of the fish tank. For an average aquarium, the wood should be no less than 1/2-inch thick, but consider making it thicker for safety reasons. If it is a smaller fish tank, like a fish bowl, then the table can be smaller and thinner, but making it a little thicker will help the table safely support the weight of a fully stocked tank. The top should be at least one-inch longer than the fish tank in all directions to allow for ample ledge space. Measure you fish tank and then add one inch to all of the dimensions to get the dimensions of your table top.

Craft the legs of the table. The legs should be strong enough to support the fish tank. These legs should be no less than one inch in diameter for the average fish tank. Again, it is good practice to make the legs thicker than this, even for smaller fish tanks. A safe size is closer to two inches in diameter for each leg. The legs should be equal length so that the table does not wobble or shake. If the table is particularly tall, you might consider replacing the legs with a pedestal on the center of the table or make the legs thicker. If the table is over three feet tall, make the legs no less than three inches in diameter. If you choose to use a single pedestal, it should be around seven to eight inches or more in diameter.

Craft bottom protective studs to place on the bottom of the legs. This step is optional, but it is a good idea to protect the bottom of the legs as well as the floor that the fish tank sits on. These studs can also have grips on them to allow for a sturdier table. Many hardware stores will sell these types of studs or grips in the construction accessory sections.

Connect the legs to the table. Have at least four legs to a table. This will allow for optimal strength to the table and make weight distribution more even. If you use a pedestal, make sure that it is directly in the middle of the table so that the weight is resting primarily on it. The legs can be connected to the table either by using nails or screws. The legs can be nailed or screwed directly into the sides of the surface wood for a more rudimentary looking table or they can be screwed inside a boarder that can be placed on around the bottom of the surface. However, a boarder is not necessary.