tank stand foam??

[Becikeja]

I have read several references over the past few weeks recommending to put foam, or Styrofoam or something between the wooden tank stand and the tank itself. I don't understand what the purpose is. Can someone please explain? Also, specifically what type do you use, and how thick for a 125g - 72"X18" All-glass tank. Thanks for the guidance.

[MeganL3985]

The only thing I can think of is the styrofoam or posterboard people use as background.....

[Fishalicious]

A lot of people use this to ensure that the tank water in the tank is level...

Use a waterlevel to see if your tank is sloping - if it is you can use a a thin sheet of styrofoam and the heavier part of the tank will sink further into it making it level again ;)

It is quite dangerous to have a non level tank as it can lead to cracks and breaks in the glass due to one side carrying a lot more weight..

You can use it from the start when setting up your tank as a precaution

X

[markbob]

It also allows the foam to take the brunt of the stress if the stand has any irregularities in it. Thickness depends on the size of the tank but I can't imagine needing anything greater than a half inch for any size tank.

[Nautilus29]

Another good reason to use it is because when you put water in your tank it squishes down the syrofoam around the edges of your tank and in the middle it helps support the glass.

[Lady Hobbs]

It's used if you happen to have an unlevel floor. That will keep the tank more level. It's also used if you have a planted tank to help keep the subtract warmer. You don't have to use it.

You buy it in sheets at the lumber yard in different thicknesses.

[Algenco]

Primary reason is to eliminate pressure points due to imperfections in stand surfaces. Some manufacturers such as Glasscages.com will not warranty a tank unless foam is used.
Tom Barr uses a layer of neoprene over foam in all his setups.

[Becikeja]

Thanks for the notes. I think I will make sure to design in a half inch of styrofoam. With that much weight inside the tank, I want to make sure it's level, every little tip helps.

[Incredulous_Ed]

I have a bunch of leftwover carpet from a while back, and I use that as the cushoning.

[jeffs99dime]

all the major home improvement stores carry it as well. (lowes, home depot, true value, etc.)

[crackatinny]

I use it under all my tanks, just in case there is a slight imperfection in the base board.

I had trouble around here finding a peice of styrofoam big enough for my 120G, so I bought a 10mm thick high density foam camping mattress from our local cheap shop for $5, in future I will be using this, I find it better than styrofoam.