acrylic aquariums?

Question

are these really a good investment? thinking of building an aquarium in the wall, acrylic seems really affordable compared to glass........any suggestions?

Answer 1

Here are two websites where you can check out the pros and cons of glass and acrylic: http://www.firsttankguide.net/tanktype.php
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=16&cat=1968&articleid=2857

I once worked with a 300 gallon display tank made of acrylic, so I have some experience with larger sizes of these. One of the biggest disadvantages (IMO at least) is that it does scratch easier than glass. I tried the polishing kits you buy - these are graded abrasives that remove the scratches by sanding them down - but this leaves a thinner area in the acrylic, so the viewing area is somewhat distorted.

It also developed a leak where the seams were welded, but the manufacturer had guaranteed the tank and fixed it free of charge, but the tank owner had to pay for shipping, which involved building a wooden packing crate, or the actual shipping cost to and from the manufacturer. If you plan to build the tank yourself, you'll have to male sure the seams are good, or you may find yourself in an emergency housing situation!

On the positive side, acrylic is much lighter than glass, and you can build custom sizes and shapes not available in commercial glass tanks. And the visibilty throught the tank is much better with acrylic (unless you get scratches!).

Answer 2

Believe it or not, "Plate Glass" is not as expensive as you might think compared to the price of Acrylic, especially when you start looking for acrylic that is over 1/4" thick. Depending on the size you have in mind, you could even buy a glass tank and cut it apart to use the glass in a custom configuration. Years ago I built a 400 Gal tank using a 60 Gal. Glass Aquarium. Normally yo don't want a Tall Aquarium, you want it real;ly Long and some times wide. Thats why the galss from a smaller Aquarium will work great. Imagine if I had used the glass from a 250 Gal.+ Aquarium. Besides Aqrylic yellows in a short time & scratches when you so much as look at it, let alone rub it with a sponge or magnetic tank cleaner.

Answer 3

Acrylic aquariums are just as durable as glass, but unlike glass, it can withstand more pressure from the weight of the water. Public aquariums mostly contain acrylic 'glass', some as thick as 23 inches through to withstand the pressure of very large display tanks. I would highly recommend acrylic over glass for a in-wall aquatic habitat, being a serious fish hobbist myself (owner of 14 actively stocked freshwater tanks, I'm a bit obessed but I love it *lol*) I would look up on how many gallons you plan to have your tank hold. That way, when you prepare to purchase your veiwing panel, you can figure out just how thick you need your aquarium wall to be. And don't hesitate to e-mail well known public aquariums for tips on setting up tanks, they're always helpful and polite! The best part about acrylic is that it cleans alot better than glass, as for some reason, algae sticks a bit harder to glass than acrylic. I hope this sheds some light and that you manage to set up your tank, and adorn it in natural setting for your fish, fresh or salt!

Answer 4

The acrylics are generally the wackier shaped tanks where glass has to be shaped with straight flat facets (square, rectangle, octagon, hexagon). Costs are all over the board but generally glass is cheaper and as above in more traditional shapes. The acrylics though have some really really cool looks, but be ready to pay for them.

Answer 5

Modern acrylics are pretty durable and more affordable than they used to be. Apart from the scratching hazzard they are the best way to go. Actually they have a cure for the scratching too but it is a little tricky to do.
Good Luck.

Answer 6

Acrylic is good for very large tanks but scratches very easy, I would go with glass! It's more costly than acrylic but I think it's your best bet!

Answer 7

I don't have any experience with Acrylic aquariums, but several of my fellow Fish Hobbyists have mentioned a few pros and cons over the years, just in case you haven't heard these, I figured I'd share:

Pros:
Can hold more water, won't break as easily, and more durable.

Cons:
Scratches easily, shows more wear and not as clear as glass.

Answer 8

Acrylic can scratch very easily, personally unless you are doing something really large or custom I would stick to glass.

Answer 9

It can scratch really easily. If you plan on having an algae eater, then it'll scratch the tank walls. I would suggest glass because it's more durable and you can see through it better.

~ZTM