If you go with the 2 tank model the 96x48 footprint is the most affordable. I just got done with my 520 and the acrylic cost under $1500. I’m building a 480 (96x48x24) now for a buddy thats using 1/2” material and the cost was under $1000.
Doug's 1400 gal Dream Marine Aquarium - 1st Topic: Better compatibility in larger Footprints?
- Monster Build
- Thread starter DJKNOX
- Start date
- Tagged users None
Hey thanks for sharing your thoughts and photos! My two options that I've settled in on are: A) 1600 gal: 130 x 72 x 48 with water level at ~42"; B) 2 x 850 gal: 120 x 54 x 38 with water level at ~32" - Both require three sheets of 96x130 3/4" glass . Because of the following two main aesthetic reasons, I'm leaning towards glass rather than acrylic: 1) island construction will not have any external bracing as I don't visually like that sort of build, and 2) I've decided on a deeper tank. These two preferences make acrylic builds impossible without very thick walls. Thus there will be no savings with Acrylic and so will likely stay with glass. BTW - do you know what safety factor you are applying to your acrylic builds... or are you just working from experience or industry norms?If you go with the 2 tank model the 96x48 footprint is the most affordable. I just got done with my 520 and the acrylic cost under $1500. I’m building a 480 (96x48x24) now for a buddy thats using 1/2” material and the cost was under $1000.
update??
no progress or final decision on the aquarium yet. House plans must be finalized first and covid-19 has forced a big delay. Breaking ground for the foundations was going to be spring 2021 but that will now be delayed. I still would prefer 1" starfire glass but it is not available on the market and so acrylic may win out if I go with the 1600 gal. For the 2x850 option, 3/4" glass is my preference.
Just a quick update on this thread. The pandemic brought a lot of tragedy and adversity to my life and everything was put on hold. I'm just coming up for air now and hope to re-start my new house project that includes the monster aquarium as a sub project.
Similar threads
