HDPE Seaboard/King Starboard

[LoneStar]

Ok....may know the answer to this already but wanted to ask to get some feedback.

I'm going to be going barebottom on my new tank. The trend out there is to use a HDPE (high density polyethylene) product called King Starboard to line the bottom of the barebottom tanks. This material was designed to be used on boat deckings. It is strong, durable, and UV resistant.

There is a similiar HDPE product called Seaboard as well. Its slightly cheaper but still has the same characteristics of King Starboard.

There is regular HDPE that is not UV resistant, that is roughly 40% cheaper than the King Starboard and Seaboard.

My question would be is it worth it to get the name brand, UV resistant board? Or would regular HDPE, non-UV resistant board work just as well? Over time would my lighting cause any problems to this board? Or are people just following a trend and buying the name brand?

Regal Plastics sells HDPE and I'm going to call them tomorrow to get a quote. I'm not sure if they sell King Starboard or Seaboard but I will see.

[cpreefguy]

I have found that it is better to pay a bit more and get the proven and tested product, better safe than sorry IMO. a few extra dollars could save thousands

[LoneStar]

Yeah thats what I was thinking. I'll see if I can buy the product locally. Otherwise I can order sheets online....but I'm going to bite the bullet hard for shipping ;)

[Jeff]

if it is covered in coraline algea and live rock would the uv get to it. try an epoxy and sand mix added to your starboard, the grit texture will help prevent your rock from slipping.

[LoneStar]

Got a link to the sand/expoxy mixture Jeff?

[Jeff]

sorry but i don't, it was on reef central under faux sand bed, it was designed to look a little like sand but was really bare bottom.