Advantages of Acrylic Aquarium Tanks Versus Glass

Considering an Acrylic Fish Tank

When it comes to aquariums, most people think of tanks made of glass. However, another option is acrylic. There are a number of good reasons why you should consider an aquarium made of acrylic. Hopefully, these reasons will help you in making a decision that will be right for you.

There are a number of sizes of aquariums that are available to those interested in the hobby. Sizes include: 5, 10, 15, 20, 29, 55, 75, 90, 100, 120, and larger gallon tanks.

Problems With Glass Tanks Vs Acrylic

A problem with glass tanks is they are made up of many pieces of glass and they are all bonded together with an epoxy or silicone. Acrylic fish aquariums, though, are made up of one molded piece and this process usually keeps the price down.

Since it is a single molded piece, over time this type of aquarium would no doubt cost less when it comes to maintaining it. And you won't have to worry about having to replace it because it would leak like a glass tank would in time. Acrylic is extremely durable and strong.

And again, this comes down to how an acrylic tank is constructed. It is made up of one molded piece, making it more stronger overall than glass. Another reason why acrylic is stronger is because it is less likely to shatter. Glass has a larger chance of cracking, shattering, or causing a joint to come loose.

Another nice feature about acrylic is the appearance is much more clearer than a glass tank.

Acrylic Tanks Conclusion

These are just a few positives about acrylic aquariums. They are durable, strong, and extremely beautiful. If you choose to have one, you will be able to enjoy it for years to come.

Glass Vs Acrylic Aquariums

A huge difference between an acrylic aquarium and a glass one is an acrylic tank has the tendency to scratch easily. This is a huge drawback and because of this many that have owned an acrylic tank say they will never have another one.

However, the clarity of acrylic is much more clearer than standard glass. There is a marked difference between the two and if you are able to overlook the scratching issue, you may want to consider an acrylic tank.

But if clarity is what you are looking for without worrying about scratches, then consider purchasing an aquarium made of Starphire glass. A really cool benefit of Starphire glass over acrylic is you get less distortion when viewing the tank at an angle.

If weight is an issue, such as when living in an apartment, or having a tank upstairs, then you will probably want to consider getting one made of acrylic, it is much lighter in weight than glass.

A big issue with glass tanks is, over time, they may leak because of having joints held together by caulk. This is pretty much eliminated when you have an acrylic tank. And, oftentimes, an acrylic tank will last much longer than one made of glass.

If you are going to stock very sensitive creatures in your aquarium that cannot tolerate even minor changes in temperature, you may want to have an acrylic tank because it is a better insulator. If you are going to have creatures that require a lot of lighting and you are considering adding metal halide lamps, then acrylic may not be a good choice for you because these types of lights get very hot and they could melt your acrylic aquarium.

If you are considering an acrylic tank, make sure to check that it is constructed very well and that it is thick. Acrylic has a tendency to bow out, whereas glass will not.

Cleaning an acrylic aquarium can be very difficult verses a glass tank. If someone were to try to clean an acrylic aquarium with Windex, it can cause a huge problem, namely hazing.

As you can see, there is too many pro's and con's when it comes to both types of aquarium styles. It basically comes down to preference, weight, what you are going to stock in your tank, and what type of lighting you are going to use. This is only a reference for you and there is always advances in technology, so continue to research the subject for the latest information.