I just moved into a new apartment, and I'd like to get an aquarium. Space is tight so I'd like to use this entertainment stand:
I would like a 20 gallon aquarium (I'm told 10 gallon ones are too small, and hard to maintain for beginners).
Weight = aquarium + water (20 gal) + rocks = 85 kg (190 lbs).
I would like to reinforce this stand so I don't face $$ in damage charges :). I am thinking of using metal rods going from just under the main shelf where the aquarium would stand, going all the way down to the floor. This would mean drilling through the 3 shelves below it.
I understand that aquariums hold most of their weight on their corners, thus four rods would be positioned just under the corners. I also want to protect from the shelf buckling, so I will want to double it up, and reinforce the diagonals. I am thinking sheet metal + more square rods.
Any thoughts? Am I missing anything or doing anything wrong? Any help appreciated! First DIY home-improvement project.