Need suggestion - water tank support

[Indiana Wash]

OK, I put in a RO reject reclaim system. I used a pickup truck water tank. I put it on a pillar of concrete blocks. the problem is the pillar is about 2'x2' and the tanks bottom is about 3'x4' so the pillar is pushing up on the bottom of the tank. I need something to put on the top of the pillars under the tank to support it. I am thinking 1/4" steel but that is going to be really heavy and expensive. So does anyone have any suggestions? The tank is 210 gallons which means approximately 1600 pounds, most of which will be on the pillar.

Anyone have a good suggestion? is 1/4" steel the best idea?

 

[MEP001]

I'd probably build a frame out of 2 x 8 lumber.

 

[PaulLovesJamie]

the pillar is about 2'x2' and the tanks bottom is about 3'x4'
...
approximately 1600 pounds, most of which will be on the pillar.

I'd probably just use lumber, but I'd doublecheck the weight bearing ratings first.

Also, unless I'm confused your math doesnt add up. Your pillar is 4 sq ft and your tank is 12 sq ft; 1/3 = "most" ?

 

[Indiana Wash]

Well, most of the weight will be in the center. The center 4' will bear more weight than any other 4' of the base.

I was afraid of the wood warping and not supporting weight over time. especially in a humid environment.

 

[2Biz]

Check out this publication for reference:

http://www.awc.org/pdf/wsdd/c2b.pdf

A single 2 x 4 on edge will support 459# . So (4) 2 x 4 should safely support the load you specified. 2 x 4's are cheap, double up the 2 x 4"s (Treated) and use a good grade of treated 3/4" plywood and you should be good to go.

 

[Bubbles Galore]

Treated lumber is what i used in a similar install. Has held up great for me so far.

 

[Reds]

why not make the pillar big enough to support the whole tank bottom

 

[Indiana Wash]

why not make the pillar big enough to support the whole tank bottom

Not enough space in my equipment room.