Self leveling mat

[Perthegallon]

Hey guys building a second tank is a self leveling Matt worth it or is it just a normal Mat that is over priced because it’s for this hobby

 

[Kershaw]

Hey guys building a second tank is a self leveling Matt worth it or is it just a normal Mat that is over priced because it’s for this hobby

I don’t know for sure, but I think they provide false security.

 

[Reef By Steele Verified Sponsor]

I don’t know if there is an added value or not. But I saw someone recommend a yoga mat to another person on here a couple days ago.

 

[Perthegallon]

Yeah I can’t imagine there much

I don’t know if there is an added value or not. But I saw someone recommend a yoga mat to another person on here a couple days ago.

I was going to do that but wasn’t sure if I should just spend the money

 

[Reef By Steele Verified Sponsor]

Yeah I can’t imagine there much

I was going to do that but wasn’t sure if I should just spend the money

I think they are important especially with a glass tank vs plastic framed tanks. That being said, I would see if there is a “weight” density listed and wether they are moisture resistant, anti microbial etc. then compare between them and other materials vs cost.

Or if the cost isn’t much different get the product “made” for it and save the time.

 

[RedoubtReef]

The thin neoprene exercise mats you can get online are your best bet if you are looking for one. Should be less than $20. Is this an acrylic tank or rimless glass?

 

[edd59]

they have nothing to do with leveling, they take away imperfections in the stand that could put stress on the glass. i have a miricles tank that comes with a 5 yr warranty and they supply a regular piece of styrafoam

 

[Mikeltee]

Get a 1/2" thick yoga mat from Amazon for $15. I was able to make 4 of them for my qt room out of one. Lay it down first and then trim. You won't get it right if you cut it first.

 

[Perthegallon]

The thin neoprene exercise mats you can get online are your best bet if you are looking for one. Should be less than $20. Is this an acrylic tank or rimless glass?

Rimless glass

 

[penguinexdeus]

they have nothing to do with leveling, they take away imperfections in the stand that could put stress on the glass. i have a miricles tank that comes with a 5 yr warranty and they supply a regular piece of styrafoam

100% this. The term self leveling mat should be outlawed. Stress relieving mat I think would be more accurate as it just alleviates tiny pressure points and helps smooth the surface contacting the glass.

Needed if no frame on bottom of tank, not needed if there's a frame and if used with a frame could actually cause a failure depending on how thick the mat is. I still cringe thinking off those photos on Facebook with framed tanks sitting on pink styrofoam insulation boards with people asking why their tank isn't level...

 

[Perthegallon]

100% this. The term self leveling mat should be outlawed. Stress relieving mat I think would be more accurate as it just alleviates tiny pressure points and helps smooth the surface contacting the glass.

Needed if no frame on bottom of tank, not needed if there's a frame and if used with a frame could actually cause a failure depending on how thick the mat is. I still cringe thinking off those photos on Facebook with framed tanks sitting on pink styrofoam insulation boards with people asking why their tank isn't level...

I think I’ll definitely get one. The tank is a custom made (bought from someone going through a divorce) and it’s extremely thick glass and the tank stand is really nicely made so why not spend the extra few to help it out

 

[RedoubtReef]

Rimless glass

double check with the mfgr and see what they suggest to make sure.