[dphilbert]

I'm considering building a 36" long by 24" by 16" deep aquarium (I figure about 50 gallons). I'm wondering if I should use glass or acrylic, for a few reasons. I know that acrylic scratches easier, but can you drill glass for an overflow? Also, as far as strength goes, is glass or acrylic stronger for its width? Finally, which is more cost effective? Thanks for any help in advance

[mtfabel]

Someone will correct me if I'm wrong but Acrylic is stronger. Yes you can drill glass as long as its not tempered and you have to have a diamond tipped bit to do it. The only real advantage glass has over acrylic is its resistance to scratching. This may not seem like a big deal but after a year or 2 of cleaning your tank and moving stuff around acrylic will have scratches.

[glampka]

Glass is the way to go due to the scratching issues as mentioned above. If you don't want to drill it yourself you can usually get that done at a glass shop. Diamond tipped glass drills are available on eBay fairly reasonably. If you're going to drill it yourself, take your time & make sure you cool the drill bit with water as you go.

[sellelg]

I will add that Acrylic does not distort light as much as glass. Looks more natural. But, with that said, I have always used glass because of the scratching issue. Weight is also a factor. Glass is heavy. I have a 240 glass and it nust weigh 400lbs emptyIt took three adults and two boys to move it onto my stand. There are some good resources on the web for drilling goles in glass aquariums. Look at this link: 3reef.com - Forums for coral reef aquariums, salt water fish, corals, inverts, protein skimmers, aquarium lighting and more! - 3reef Articles - Reef Aquarium Articles and How To's - Drilling a glass tank.

[ACE]

GLASS I had a acrylic freshwater after cleaning it about 1 year it looked terrible, scratches.
I will stick to glass!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!
ACE