Glass or Acrylic???

[Seth fhy]

I am getting a new tank and haven't decided on glass or acrylic. What is your preference and why?? Thanks!

 

[FoolishWizard]

Ive always preferred glass. Less likely to scratch is the main reason.

 

[thejuggernaut]

How large is the tank. Very large tanks usually have to be made of acrylic.

Acrylic is lighter and very clear, but scratches easier and will bow slightly, even if built properly. It will bow allot of built thinly. Although it does scratch easier, it can be repaired, but does require the tank be drained. Glass is heavier, doesn't bow, isn't as clear, and doesn't scratch as easy. If proper practices are used, you should rarely scratch a glass tank. However, if it is scratched it is near impossible to fix. Pluses and minuses for each.

 

[eklapp]

I have an acrylic tank now and will never get one again. It scratches way to easily. Sure it was easier to move but you'll only have to do that once or twice.

 

[Reefing Madness]

https://www.reef2reef.com/forums/reef-aquarium-discussion/196583-glass-acrylic-pros-cons.html

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

I like glass because it's harder to scratch and it's more forgiving when you neglect the maintenance of it.

 

[Mester320]

I prefer glass because it is harder to scratch. I had a cell cast acrylic tank and it scratched so easily. It was the most beautiful reef tank I have ever had but the first thing you saw was the scratches. So I tore it down and went back to glass for the long term. Just got tired of the scratches and having to be so careful with it. Plus side of acrylic is it will be less weight, will be more clear, much easier to drill, and it is a better insulator. If you are great at polishing acrylic while the tank is full go for it if not I would say go for it because you will scratch it. If not I recommend glass.