This mat.....what is it for, do i really need it?

[tang_boi]

Foam mat between tank and stand. Moisture barrier? Just a cushion or vibration dampener? What is its purposes, and do I need it? I don't like the white being visible between the tank and stand.

Thanks for any help or advice.

 

[Crustaceon]

Leveling. It’s meant to fill in low spots on the stand that you may not see and provide the tank with an overall flatter surface to spread its weight over. If your stand top is flat and even, you do not need the pad.

 

[Flippers4pups]

Typically a rimless tank (glass or acrylic) needs a foam mat under the tank. A rimmed tank does not need this.

The previous owner may have placed the mat there just because or because there is a deflection (unevenness) on top or the corners aren't coplanar.

 

[9975]

Agreed it's a leveling mat. If you don't like the color then paint it black so it blends in better

 

[Crustaceon]

If you want to play it safe, use the pad, take a razor blade and trim it slightly behind the edge of the tank brace. You can then fill it in with black silicone which will make it far less noticeable and as a bonus, it’ll be insulated from moisture.

 

[Crustaceon]

It’s like a Creed song.

“What’s this mat fooooooorrrrrrrr??”