How do I protect my carpet from spills?

Ben H · Jul 20, 2022

I am currently putting together a 75 gallon tank in my fourth floor carpeted apartment. Spill prevention is my top priority and carpet removal is not an option.

My current plan is to line the stand with shower liner, then place the stand itself on top of a layer of Dri-Dek breathable floor tiles as I found that recommended on Reef builder. I would like to add another layer of protection, the option I am considering is adding a layer of absorbant foam either below or above the dri tek tiles.

I have also found trunk liner pans recommended on a few forums to place the entire stand within, certainly not the most attractive option but if anyone can vouch for this safety is number one!

How does this plan sound, the reef keeping hobby is mostly new to me so any advice is appreciated!

blaxsun · Jul 20, 2022

Spills are one thing - but splashes (even with lids) are going to happen. Your plan seems solid - there's not really any way to plan for a tank breaking/draining, so just make sure your tenant insurance covers you.

vetteguy53081 · Jul 20, 2022

Spills will occur where there is water But I have off whiye carpet and have tank on a carpet runner to protect the actual carpeting.

Crustaceon · Jul 20, 2022

You could set the tank up in the bathtub.

CoralB · Jul 20, 2022

Along with absorbent type of material have you ever thought about renters insurance as you are on the fourth floor and the units below are susceptible to damage if it should fail .

Ben H · Jul 20, 2022

Can anyone vouch for dri-dek, my main concern is that it could potentially settle and mess up the level of the tank.

ScubaFish802 · Jul 20, 2022

CoralB said:
Along with absorbent type of material have you ever thought about renters insurance as you are on the fourth floor and the units below are susceptible to damage if it should fail .

Often they will only cover if the tank is on the 1st floor (at least around here)