Yes, it weakens the seams. This is described in the manual, the tank life is reduce by a couple years on average. Figure a well made tank on a level stand will typically last 15-20 years, it will last 13-18 with a wavebox. I have a 11 year old tank at home and it looks like hell. Scratched, faded trim, stand is scuffed up. Very few people keep a tank this long.