Acrylic or Glass on 300+

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gatormfk

Exodon
MFK Member
Oct 6, 2019
87
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Trinity, FL
Morning All,

Some of you know I was super excited to set up a 265 aquarium. Well long story short, got screwed on a leaky used tank, and starting from scratch. Given I’m now committed to spending a ton of money on a brand new tank, I’ll likely go between 300-450 gallons on the new tank. Curious the board’s opinion on Acrylic vs Glass at that size?

Thanks!
 
Tanks 300G+ I would say acrylic to be safe. Less likely to leak, I wish there were 100% way to guarantee a glass aquarium of that size would'nt leak. I was in the market as well for such large tanks and saw one for sale by Marineland but almost all the reviews stated after a while it sprung leaks. I am not a fan of acrylic as well due to it being easily scratched and not as clear as glass due to deflection. But if it meant keeping my monsters safe I would have no choice but acrylic. Some websites can custom build the glass aquariums to your needs but I am guessing this will come out to be a ton of $$. G gatormfk
 
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I would say acrylic, glass is a heavy material which that alone rules it out for most people while acrylic is light.
A 180 glass takes multiple people to carry, a 180 acrylic could be moved by 1 person if they’re fairly strong I’d say.
The main con with acrylic is that it costs a lot more but I believe it can be justified especially if it is only 1 tank wanting to be acquired.


If I may, may I bring your attention to fiberglass tanks? They aren’t pretty but they’re a great bang for your buck. Pentair makes fiberglass tanks and I myself am trying to get a tank or two from them.
 
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Given my recent experience, I’m definitely concerned with leaking. Given that I think I’m kind of leaning towards acrylic to help with that. I’m not nearly as familiar there as I am with glass. Are the Tsunami ones on Fish Tanks Direct good quality or should I only be looking at something custom?

Seen fiberglass but unfortunately outside of leaking appearance is going to be key since it’s my show tank in our living room.
 
I have both. My 300g was my latest. I procrastinated forever. Went with Acrylic from Truvue. Best decision I made. It’s awesome!!! Plus only used 4 guys with suction cups to lift and move vs 10 guys on a 300g glass. A bit more loot but worth it for me. Hope this helps.
 
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