ᐅ Is it advisable to install additional reinforcement panels in Kallax units when using them to support aquariums?
Created on: 10 Dec 2022 09:13
S
Sirima
Hello everyone,
I am planning to set up my new aquarium on a Kallax shelf unit, but I am unsure whether I should add extra reinforcement panels to stabilize and protect the shelf. My main question is: When using a Kallax shelf unit for an aquarium, is it really necessary to install special reinforcement panels to better distribute the weight and prevent damage to the unit, or are the original shelves sufficient without any additional measures?
I have read that the Kallax was not originally designed for such heavy loads, but I wonder if reinforcement panels are truly needed or if the unit can handle the actual weight of the aquarium without issues. Perhaps some users have practical experience or recommendations?
Thank you in advance!
I am planning to set up my new aquarium on a Kallax shelf unit, but I am unsure whether I should add extra reinforcement panels to stabilize and protect the shelf. My main question is: When using a Kallax shelf unit for an aquarium, is it really necessary to install special reinforcement panels to better distribute the weight and prevent damage to the unit, or are the original shelves sufficient without any additional measures?
I have read that the Kallax was not originally designed for such heavy loads, but I wonder if reinforcement panels are truly needed or if the unit can handle the actual weight of the aquarium without issues. Perhaps some users have practical experience or recommendations?
Thank you in advance!
letar schrieb:
An 18 mm (0.7 inch) plywood panel installed across the full depth significantly improves load distribution. That basically makes sense.
joro10 schrieb:
Reinforcement panels definitely make sense.Do I understand correctly that even smaller models are risky without reinforcement? I thought using an aquarium up to about 60 liters (16 gallons) would be unproblematic.
Does anyone have experience with smaller aquariums on the Kallax unit without additional panels? I’m also interested in the long-term load—does the shelf start to visibly bend at 40-50 liters (11-13 gallons) over weeks or months?
Hello,
I have a 54-liter (14-gallon) aquarium placed on a Kallax shelf unit without any reinforcements. Initially, there was slight sagging after a few weeks, but it was minimal because it was exactly in the middle compartment, and I also secured the shelf to the wall.
My recommendation: for tanks under 60 liters (16 gallons), it can be manageable if the shelf is perfectly level and anchored to the wall. For tanks around 80 liters (21 gallons) or more, I would definitely reinforce the shelf.
Although the water weight is well distributed across the aquarium’s base, the shelves are narrow and made of particle board, which will deteriorate over time.
I have a 54-liter (14-gallon) aquarium placed on a Kallax shelf unit without any reinforcements. Initially, there was slight sagging after a few weeks, but it was minimal because it was exactly in the middle compartment, and I also secured the shelf to the wall.
My recommendation: for tanks under 60 liters (16 gallons), it can be manageable if the shelf is perfectly level and anchored to the wall. For tanks around 80 liters (21 gallons) or more, I would definitely reinforce the shelf.
Although the water weight is well distributed across the aquarium’s base, the shelves are narrow and made of particle board, which will deteriorate over time.
Another important point I would like to mention: if you add a reinforcement, you should definitely consider sealing the cabinet area as well.
This means that if water ever leaks or is spilled during a water change, it can seriously damage the panels and the shelving. Additional sealing (e.g., with clear varnish or a special sealing film) of the reinforcement panels is advisable.
I also recommend keeping the panels as free of joints and splinters as possible and carefully checking the support surfaces to avoid any pressure points.
This means that if water ever leaks or is spilled during a water change, it can seriously damage the panels and the shelving. Additional sealing (e.g., with clear varnish or a special sealing film) of the reinforcement panels is advisable.
I also recommend keeping the panels as free of joints and splinters as possible and carefully checking the support surfaces to avoid any pressure points.
One more technical note: The contact surface between the aquarium and the shelf should be completely flat and even. Unevenness increases point pressure, which significantly reduces the load-bearing capacity of the Kallax shelf.
A stiffening panel can also be used as a base to distribute the load optimally. Usually, an intermediate plywood or MDF board (15-18mm (0.6-0.7 inches)) makes the shelf much more stable and minimizes the risk of sagging.
A stiffening panel can also be used as a base to distribute the load optimally. Usually, an intermediate plywood or MDF board (15-18mm (0.6-0.7 inches)) makes the shelf much more stable and minimizes the risk of sagging.
Domau0 schrieb:
An additional sealing (e.g., with clear varnish or a special sealing film) of the reinforcement boards is advisable.Very good tip! I hadn’t considered that at all. So the boards should also be protected against moisture.
bupar schrieb:
The support surface between the aquarium and the shelf should be completely flat and even.Is there any useful preparation or recommendation for installation to ensure this? For example, placing something between the board and the aquarium or using non-slip pads?
Thanks in advance. It’s clear that you can get really good expert advice here! 🙂
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