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Step 1
Figure out how many gallons of water your aquarium holds. Most of the weight of the aquarium is the water, the gravel, heavy decorations and the tank itself. Glass is about twice as heavy as acrylic and requires support at the edges of the bottom of the tank, while acrylic needs the most support in the center of the bottom of the tank.
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Step 2
Decide what kind of stand you'd like to buy. Stands come in every height, shape, size and material. The most popular stands are made of metal, wrought iron and pressure-treated wood, all of which come in a variety of finishes. If your tank is rectangular, a rectangular pressure-treated wood stand is probably ideal.
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Step 3
Determine which, if any, bells and whistles you might need. Cabinets, shelves and drawers provide convenient storage for tank supplies or room to show off your other aquatic treasures like sea shells and coral. Some tank stands also come with a matching topper for a "built-in" look. Others come with places to hide cords, additional lighting and even stereo systems. Figure out what you really need before you shop.
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Step 4
Shop around for the best deal, or buy online. If you have a large or irregularly shaped aquarium, find a similarly shaped stand or have one custom built to your specifications. Always be sure to buy a stand that is larger and wider than your tank to prevent tipping.
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Step 5
Set the stand on a level surface away from drafts, temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight for the health of your fish.
