Styrofoam... needed?

[rkc772]

I am currently finishing setting up my 180 gal 6x2x2 tank. and would like some suggestion and comments on using stryrofoam at the bottom of the tank between the stand and tank. I bought a 4x2 ft styrofoam 1/2 inch thick at homedepot... is the thickness enough and would it do any good or bad to the tank? advantage and disadvantages???

 

[Plumber]

Depends on the type of foam. If it's squishy, low density stuff I wouldn't use it. Personally I like to use 1/4" cork. You can get it in rolls or sheets at Michaels or similar craft/hobby store. The idea is to even out any slight imperfections in the stand and it doesn't take much thickness to accomplish that. The low density foam may actually be more of a problem than a help since the tank may tend to wobble, which could be very bad especially for a glass tank.

 

[rkc772]

the tank is actually an acrylic tank. i know we used to use cork type matting... what about rubber sheet? hope i described it right.... because the manufacturer of the tank told me that he uses some sort of plastic sheet around 1/4 inch thick also.

 

[Plumber]

Yeah, rubber should do the trick. You can pick up gasket making material at your local auto parts store.

 

[guppy]

I also like 1/4" cork on 5/8" marine grade plywood

 

[Plumber]

Once again Guppy is right!
Marine grade plywood + waterproof wood glue + stainless steel screws + hardwood veneers to make it purdy = an indestructable stand.