ᐅ Has anyone ever built an aquarium stand using a Kallax unit?

Thank you very much for the detailed advice!

teyosef schrieb:
Avoid pressure marks by placing a thin rubber mat (aquarium mat) under the aquarium.

I hadn’t been aware of that before; I will definitely keep it in mind.

I’m curious if anyone has tried using a combination of Kallax and plywood as reinforcement, and how effective it turned out to be? For an 80-liter (21-gallon) tank, that should probably be sufficient, right?

I’d also appreciate any tips on the best way to modify the back wall.

GIFAPEO schrieb:
I’m curious if anyone has tried combining Kallax shelves with a plywood panel as reinforcement and how it worked out? For an 80-liter tank, that should probably be sufficient, right?

Using a plywood panel as reinforcement inside a Kallax shelf unit is a well-proven practical solution. The execution is important:
- Plywood thickness at least 15 mm (0.6 inches)
- Precise fit to the internal dimensions of the compartment
- Secured with screw-tight angle brackets and additional wooden strips

The plywood bears the load and distributes the weight efficiently to the side panels and feet. For an 80-liter tank (approximately 80 kg (176 lbs) of water plus around 20 kg (44 lbs) for equipment and decoration), this is sufficient, provided the construction is done properly.

GIFAPEO schrieb:
I’d also appreciate tips on the best way to modify the back panel.

For the back panel, a waterproof board (e.g., MDF or coated plywood) sealed with a sealant is recommended. It can be fixed with narrow strips for additional support. If possible, ventilation slots are advisable to prevent moisture from being trapped inside.

Would you like more details on suitable tools and materials for this?

bapar schrieb:
Would you like more details about tools and materials suitable for this?

Yes, very much. I have some experience with DIY projects but want to avoid mistakes and plan as precisely as possible which materials and tools I will need. A list or brief overview would be very helpful.

Gifapeo schrieb:
A list or brief overview would be really helpful.

Here is a brief summary of the recommended materials and tools for your project:

Materials:
- Plywood sheets (15–18 mm [0.6–0.7 inches])
- Dimensional lumber (e.g., 30x30 mm [1.2x1.2 inches]) for framing
- Wood screws (various lengths, 4–5 mm [0.16–0.2 inches] diameter)
- Metal brackets for reinforcement
- Waterproof wood varnish or epoxy resin for sealing
- Sealant (silicone or aquarium-safe sealant)
- Sandpaper (grit 120 and 220)
- Wood glue (waterproof)

Tools:
- Cordless screwdriver or drill
- Jigsaw or handsaw (depending on cutting needs)
- Sander or sanding block
- Paintbrush or roller
- Tape measure and square

Tip: Plan all measurements carefully in advance and test load-bearing capacity after installing reinforcements using sandbags or similar weights.

Hope this helps you with your preparation!

Just a quick note: Waterproofing is especially important, otherwise the Kallax can quickly suffer from moisture damage. It’s best to seal all cut edges, including internal surfaces after installation.