Tank stand change? Advice needed!

[chiizulamb]

ok, so I have a tank stand for a small tank that's showing some signs that concern me.

See the enclosed pics:

Originally, I figured that the tank was just settling into the carpet and the decorative trim was breaking apart. It's been like that for the better portion of a year with no problems. So I figured I was ok.

The "side trim" (the one around the aquarium) has done the same thing, and I can't tell if this is a new thing or if its been like this for awhile too.

It has me a bit bothered and the last thing I need is my (relatively) small aquarium getting water all over the place.

Does this appear to be just a cosmetic issue or should I probably get a new stand ASAP?

 

[DMD123]

The trim piece on the top probably is not a load bearing piece. It is most likely just for decoration so I would say it may not be an issue.

The bottom however does concern me. How these stands are built probably makes this a structural piece that supports the weight of the tank. If it is possible and you are able to tear down the tank you may be able to reinforce the corner with some glue and countersink wood screws; maybe a metal corner brace behind the joint on the bottom of the stand. In fact would not hurt to reinforce all the corners. Then while it was empty you could also fix the top trim.