Quick Answer

Place the JBL AquaPad underlay on a clean, level surface beneath your aquarium to cushion against glass stress points and prevent fractures. For heavy rockwork, cut a piece to fit inside the tank directly under the decor.

Why Use an Underlay at All

An aquarium underlay like the JBL AquaPad serves two critical roles: it levels out tiny bumps and irregularities on your cabinet or stand surface, and it absorbs pressure that could otherwise concentrate on a single point of the glass bottom. Even a small pebble or a slight warp in the stand can create a stress fracture over time. The high-density foam distributes the tank's weight evenly, reducing that risk. If you're placing heavy rocks or hardscape directly on the glass, a second layer inside the tank provides extra cushioning.

Choosing the Right Size

The JBL AquaPad comes in different size options, so measure your aquarium's footprint before buying. The pad should be slightly smaller than the tank base — not larger — to avoid visible edges. If your stand has a lip or rim, trim the pad so it sits flush within the frame. For internal use under rockwork, cut a piece that matches the footprint of the heaviest decor, not the entire tank floor.

Installation Steps

  1. Prepare the Surface: Clean the top of your aquarium stand or cabinet thoroughly. Remove any debris, dust, or small objects that could create a pressure point. Wipe the area dry. Even a tiny grain of sand under the pad can create a stress point — double-check the surface is completely clean.
  2. Cut the Pad to Size: Unroll the JBL AquaPad and place it on the stand. Using a straight edge and a sharp utility knife, trim the pad so it is about 1/4 inch smaller than the aquarium footprint on all sides. This prevents the pad from being visible or interfering with trim. Cutting it too large can cause the pad to buckle under the tank; too small and it won't support the edges.
  3. Position the Pad: Lay the trimmed pad onto the stand. Center it so the aquarium will sit evenly on top. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles by hand. If the pad shifts when you place the tank, use a small piece of double-sided tape on the underside to hold it in place.
  4. Place the Aquarium: Carefully lower the empty aquarium onto the pad. Check that the tank is level using a spirit level on the top rim. Adjust the stand or add shims under the stand legs if needed — do not try to adjust the pad itself. The pad is not a substitute for leveling the stand. If the tank is not level, adjust the stand first.
  5. Optional: Internal Cushion for Rockwork: If you plan to place heavy rocks or hardscape inside the tank, cut a separate piece of JBL AquaPad to fit under those items. Place it directly on the glass before adding substrate or decor. This cushions the weight and prevents point-loading. Do not use the internal pad under the entire substrate — only under heavy, concentrated weight like large stones or driftwood.

Product Details

  • JBL AquaPad Aquarium Underlay: The JBL AquaPad is a high-density safety pad that levels out subtle bumps and irregularities on your cabinet surface, preventing dangerous stress points and tension in the bottom glass pane. This means you don't need a perfectly flat stand surface — the pad compensates for minor imperfections that could otherwise crack your tank.

    JBL AquaPad Aquarium Underlay

    JBL AquaPad Aquarium Underlay