Overview of models of tables for aquariums, important nuances
Fans of caring for fish probably know that the curbstone for the aquarium must be purchased complete with the glass product itself. Fish tank manufacturers usually produce the right size furniture for installation. If for some reason the aquarium was purchased separately, we suggest that you consider the types of pedestals, as well as the criteria for choosing a quality product.
Varieties
When choosing a stand for an aquarium, you need to pay attention not only to the shape of the product, but also to its material of manufacture. Do not neglect the size of the product. The result of the acquisition will depend on the preference of the owner, however, it is worth considering in more detail each of the listed indicators.
In shape
Modern manufacturers offer to purchase cabinets in the following forms:
- rectangular;
- square;
- angular;
- curly.
Rectangular cabinets are considered classic, since most containers are produced in this form. Such a product is universal, and can be placed anywhere in the room.
A square cupboard will become appropriate for a container in the form of a circle or square. Installing an aquarium on such a cabinet model will be simple, in addition, it will fit perfectly into the interior of a room with small dimensions. Such furniture will be well placed in the recreation area.
A corner-shaped stand means its location in the corner of the room. By purchasing this model, the consumer significantly saves space. The device is suitable for both angular and rectangular aquariums. The use of a curbstone under a corner aquarium suggests the presence of its rounded shapes that do not protrude beyond the model.
Curly products are made to order, according to the individual size of the user. The drawing of the model is carried out strictly in accordance with the dimensions of the glass container, this form is selected according to the style of the room and the specifics of the interior.
The best option for a small room will be the corner tables, inscribed in a free corner. They will not take up much space, but the triangular aquarium will have its own nuances of design.
When choosing a product, remember that the tank with water should not protrude beyond the bedside table and hang over it - this contradicts the rules for operating a glass container for fish.
To size
When installing a tank of water on the surface of the nightstand, the product should be level. In this case, the load from the tank is evenly distributed around the entire perimeter of the countertop. Depending on the size of the aquarium, the length and thickness of the upper bar varies. For a 200-liter aquarium cabinet, you will need a wide tabletop with a reinforced base; for a 60-liter product, an ordinary bedside table will be enough.
According to size, the furniture under the fish tank can be divided into the following categories:
- small - these models include products designed for aquarium capacity from 70 liters to 100. The length of such cabinets varies from 60-70 cm, the width is often 30 cm. The height of the cabinet depends on the manufacturer, it is usually made comfortable so that the user I was able to go to the stand under the aquarium 100 liters and feed the pets;
- medium - this includes aquarium tables with a length of 70-80 cm. It is convenient to place a tank of 120 liters on such products, as well as models of aquariums with a similar length and capacity of 150 liters;
- large - models related to large-sized products are distinguished by a large length. They are presented in sizes from 100 cm. When placing an aquarium of 300 liters on such a bedside table, you must be careful when checking the furniture for stability. On a large pedestal it will also be comfortable to install the product with a smaller volume, for example, 240 liters.
Most manufacturers adhere to standard dimensions of length and width, only the height of the models can differ. It is advisable to purchase a panoramic aquarium with a pedestal immediately in the kit, because there may be problems with finding a suitable stand for such a large tank.
According to the material of manufacture
The materials from which these pieces of furniture are made must be waterproof. The constant ingress of water on the surface of the aquarium cabinet will cause the base of the product to swell and be damaged.
Modern manufacturers use such materials for models:
- wood;
- Chipboard;
- MDF;
- metal.
The product based on solid wood is considered durable and environmentally friendly. Such models most often have a high cost and adorn rich and elaborate interiors. Often wooden cabinets for an aquarium are made by hand and framed with original carvings. They can be made from any array, and also painted with varnish to repel water.
Particleboard models are distinguished by their simplicity and affordability. Often products are supplemented by side open shelves or glass in the door area. Particleboards made of chipboard are considered reliable, but it is not recommended to install panoramic aquariums on such devices.
MDF panels are excellent as raw materials for pedestals. Their main difference from previous products is the extensive ability to decorate the facades, which allows you to choose a model of the curbstone for the aquarium, in harmony with the existing interior.
The last option is a metal cabinet for aquariums. This design is considered the most reliable of all listed, because metal is a durable material that can withstand any load. The table top of such a product can be made of any raw material. For example, a cabinet for a 300 liter aquarium should in any case have a metal frame, otherwise the base will not withstand the weight distribution.
Regardless of the volume of the aquarium, choose furniture products whose construction is additionally reinforced with metal posts.
Key Usability Indicators
In addition to a pleasant appearance, do not forget that the bedside table for the aquarium should perform a number of functions laid down in it by the manufacturer. For this, there is a list of criteria that determine the practicality of the product:
- moisture resistance - each material used in the design of the product should not absorb moisture. The constant use of fish food, cleaning the tank and other manipulations cause water to drain onto the cabinet. Manufacturers are trying to additionally process chipboard and MDF with compositions that prevent the penetration of moisture;
- a tendency to deformations - among furniture products there are also those that, with a slight impact, can scatter into parts. Keep in mind that the aquarium has a large weight, and during operation, the cabinet should not be deformed under load;
- strength - the back wall of the product must be reinforced with metal racks. One use of fiberboard will not be enough if you plan to use an aquarium of 200 liters with a pedestal. Best of all, if not only the rear pillars, but the entire product will be equipped with metal inserts;
- openings for cords - not bad if the future bedside table will be equipped with additional openings for power cords and tubes. For example, a corner aquarium is very convenient to place on such a product: you do not need to look for ways out of the situation where you can place protruding eyeliners to the tank;
- doors - think that all devices for feeding and caring for fish need to be located somewhere. Most likely, these will be shelves in the cabinet, so it is better that the doors close them.
It is also worth paying attention to the thickness of the countertops, on which the stability of the bedside table will depend. The photos presented in our material show that this value should not be small. Given the basic indicators of strength, you can proceed to the choice of model.
Making the right choice.
When the aquarium is purchased, it is worth considering where it will be located. It is highly recommended not to place the product on furniture items that are not intended for this. Firstly, the furniture simply can not withstand the load, and secondly it will not perform the functions presented to the cabinets. What subtleties are worth paying attention to, we will describe below:
- Aquarium displacement - depending on the volume of the tank, cabinets are chosen for the aquarium, which can withstand the existing weight. For example, to select a bedside table for an aquarium - a panorama must be competently. Such a huge load distribution can only withstand reinforced products;
- the shape of the bedside table - if the aquarium is angular, then the model of the bedside table should be appropriate. On such products it is hardly convenient to place square or rectangular containers. A corner pedestal under the aquarium will be the best option with a triangular shape of the fish tank;
- the presence of additional devices - depending on the manufacturer of the aquarium, it may have various accessories necessary for the location. For example, the use of a pedestal for a reef tank of 60 liters implies the presence of additional holes for tubes;
- evenness of the countertop - do not forget that before installing it is important to check how even the countertop is. Usually, a plywood sheet is additionally placed under the cabinet itself so that the weight is evenly distributed. Some products lack full-fledged doors and are made in the form of a stand. In such cases, the leg of the cabinet should be stable, and the countertop should take on all the load;
- appearance - choose a product for your interior. If the room is made in strict classical tones, then the glass for the cabinet can be tinted, in the case of a romantic interior style, you can purchase a product with milled facades.
Having made the right choice, the consumer gets a quality result, suitable for operation over a long period of time. A beautiful and reliable cabinet will delight the eye and fulfill its functions.