Do you really need styrofoam under the tank?

[piscivorous]

What really is the purpose of using styrofoam under the tank? Is there any purpose using it under my 55? I don't see how it would do much, as the plastic frame sits about 1/4" or below the bottom glass anyway, so the foam probably still wouldn't really support the bottom glass at all. On top of that, my stand that I bought with the tank only supports the tank on the outside edges, so the foam wouldn't be sitting on anything anyway. I am curious though, even for future reference....what purpose does the foam really serve? I've I bought a 180 gallon and I had it sitting on a flat board, whats the reason for having styrofoam under the tank?

 

[SDguy]

It's for countering any tiny variances in the "flat" stand. Though I've honestly never heard of using it on a tank that sits on it's frame. I know my 115 needs it, but it sits glass to stand directly, no frame.

 

[TomRep]

Most tanks will not be warranted if something would happen and there was no foam under it when instructed to do so.
Tom

 

[piscivorous]

My tank didn't come with any kind of "instructions" from the LFS...again, I am doubting it would make much difference on my 55 with the frame and the fact that is sits on an open top stand (only supported around outside edges)...I guess I could see this being more important on a tank that sits glass to stand directly with no frame.

 

[SDguy]

I would just call the tank manufacturer direct and ask them. If they say you need the styro, then just drop the 8 bucks at HD and you're set. If you're worried about a warranty, you might also want to check if the tank manufacturer honors their warranty if you use a different manufacturer's stand (many do not).

 

[barryw]

i not only have foam under my 300l. tank, i have it under my stand as well. it reduces the risk of breaking the bottom of your tank. i had a standard 4' tank let go because it was sitting on just the stand (not good)the foam under the tank makes sure the weight is spread evenly, it also helps if there is a grain of sand creating a pressure point. the foam under the stand helps to alleviate the un eveness out of the floor.