Plywood Thickness for Skinning Stand

[Jen D]

I'm building the stand for my 55g tank according to the plans in the thread linked below, except I used 2x6s for the top box instead of 2x4s. However, I am not sure what thickness of plywood to use for skinning. I was planning to use 3/4", but now I've been thinking that this would be unnecessary. I think I would rather use 5/8" or even 1/2" ply to reduce cost and weight, but I don't want to compromise the stability of the frame. The plywood lends stability to the frame, correct? Anyway, I would appreciate it if someone who knows more about cabinetry construction than I do could help me out on this one.
DIY Stands Template & Calculator

Thanks,
Jen D

[PL-Reef]

if your using 2x anything, you can skin it with 1/4" ply. you'll still be able to park your car on it. 2x's are over kill for a tank that size. 3/4" ply would have been more than enough.

[asm481]

As PL said, if there was 1/8 inch plywood it would be good. The plywood here will only stop it from "racking". That is stiffen it up. secure the plywood in the corners and a couple places in the lengths and you are way strong.

[BRG]

1/2" would be fine.....you could use 1/4" and still be ok with that frame!!

bg

[PL-Reef]

no need for 1/2". he already has 1 1/2" worth of framing on it! whats the point other than wasting money.

[Donw]

As stated before anything is fine for just a non structural skin. I would go 1/2 for the stability and thickness. 1/8 and 1/4 is just thin and lacks the feel of a piece on furniture. More like that 1972 mobile home. Just depends on what your looking for in a end result.

Don

[Jen D]

Thanks everyone. That's what I was hoping to hear.

[dsanfilippo]

I agree with 1/2", not for structural stability, but because less than that tends to look cheap and wavy.

[jennibee13]

i used 3/4" cabinet grade oak ply, stained it, nice

[saltydragon]

as long as the frame is built properly.....you can even wrap a piece of cloth and it'll hold..hehe...

anyways.....you can also use wallboards(the thin big sheets you find in the moulding section in HD)......