Generally the required glass thickness for any fish tank depends on its overall sizes, fish type etc. The glass should be thicker as the tank gets bigger. Glass thickness varies from at least 5 mm to a maximum of 20 mm, with tank sizes ranging from at least 20 gallons to a maximum of 50 gallons.
When it comes to calculating glass thickness, you can do so using an online calculator since doing it manually is a bit difficult. Anyway, there’s a lot more that you should know about. So continue reading.
What Is Fish Tank Glass Thickness?
Fish tank glass thickness is typically measured in millimeters (mm) or inches (in). When setting up an aquarium/fish tank, glass thickness is a necessary consideration.
Basically, it ensures that the tank can properly withstand the water pressure, additional elements such as decorations, rocks, or equipment, and the weight of the tank itself.
Factors Influencing The Selection Of The Appropriate Glass Thickness
As not all glasses are the same, their thickness level won’t be the same. Basically, there are several things that will affect the glass thickness level for particular uses. Some of the most important factors include:
- Type, size and shape of the desired glass
- Water quantity and quality
- Fish species
- Fish tank location
- Desired level of safety
How Does the Fish Aquarium Glass Thickness Matter?
While it may seem like a minor thing, it can have a significant impact on the overall durability and stability of the fish tank. It also determines the structural integrity and affects the visual clarity of the aquarium.
While thinner glass offers a more enjoyable viewing experience, thicker glass provides better insulation. Thus, it helps to maintain a stable water temperature, which is crucial for tropical fish species.
Also, some fish species, like: aggressive cichlids or large predatory fish, might exhibit behaviors that can potentially damage or stress the glass walls. Thicker glass can withstand their impact or scratching attempts, ensuring the long-term durability of the tank.
Additionally, thicker glass reduces heat transfer from external sources, like: sunlight. Since thicker glass offers more benefits, it costs more than thinner glass. So you have to select it according to your specific requirements.
How To Calculate Fish Tank Glass Thickness?
Calculating a fish tank’s glass thickness is highly necessary, so you have to do it properly. There are a number of online thickness calculators that can aid you in this process. Two of them are:
There you have to give your fish tank’s Height, Weight, Length and Safety Factor (3.8). Based on this information, these online calculation tools give the proper value of the glass thickness.
These measurements can also be done manually. But it’s quite a complex calculation and not recommended for beginners.
Recommended Glass Thickness For Different Size Fish Tanks (Glass Thickness Table)
Basically, an appropriate glass thickness for fish tanks depends on several factors, including the tank’s size, shape, and water quantity. So you might be confused about which one you should choose. This chart might help you:
| Water Quantity (Gallons) | Glass Thickness (Millimeter) |
| 10 – 15 | 3 to 4 mm |
| 15-20 | 5 to 6 mm |
| 20-40 | 7 to 9 mm |
| 40-80 | 10 to 11 mm |
| 80-100 | 12 to 14 mm |
| 100-120 | 15 to 17 mm |
| 120+ | 18 to 20 mm |
**Remember that these are just an estimated value. So it’s always advised to consult with a professional to determine the correct glass thickness for your specific tank.
7 Common Types Of Glass Used In Fish Tanks
Depending on the type, clarity, toughness, scratch resistance, etc., there are several types of aquarium glasses on the market.
Although tempered glass is mostly suggested, there are several types of glass that can also be used in an aquarium. Below is a list of them:
1. Tempered glass
This glass is among the most popular options for fish tank construction. It is reasonably strong, cost effective, and easily available. This glass is heat treated to increase its strength and durability.
So it is several times stronger than regular glass and less likely to break. That’s why if you plan to create a big fish tank, you should use tempered glass.
2. Annealed glass
Though it’s not as strong as tempered glass, it’s still a popular glass for fish tanks. But they are susceptible to scratches and dents and can’t hold too much water. Also, this glass breaks into sharp pieces, which can cause fetal injury to humans.
3. Laminated glass
This glass is made of two or more layers of glass that are bonded together with a layer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Though laminated glass is more expensive than annealed or tempered glass, it is the strongest type of glass for fish tanks.
4. Low-Iron Glass
Low-iron glass, also known as extra-clear or high-clarity glass. It is much clearer than regular glass and has almost no greenish tint because of the reduced amount of iron in its molten glass formula. For its clarity, this is the best glass for fish tanks.
5. Polycarbonate
It’s a strong, lightweight, and scratch resistant type of plastic that is often used in fish tanks. This is not only more affordable than tempered glass but also has a natural UV filtering quality. But it’s not as clear as acrylic or crystal, so it may hamper the view of your fish tanks.
6. Float Glass
This glass is made by floating molten glass on a bed of molten metal, and it’s the most common type of glass used in fish tanks. It’s also much clearer and stronger than regular glass. This glass also costs less. So if you are on a tight budget, you can use this glass.
7. Acrylic Glass
Though acrylic (also known as plexiglass or Perspex) isn’t technically glass, it’s still a popular alternative material for fish tanks.
It is more affordable than tempered glass and is lightweight, strong, and impact resistant.
FAQs
After reading until now, we still believe that you might have some unanswered questions in your mind. So to get those answers, read this FAQ section. Here, we tried our best to answer the most frequently asked questions.
Is Thicker Aquarium Glass Better?
Yes. Thicker glass is typically considered better because it provides additional durability, structural strength, and insulation. It can also tolerate higher water pressure, which reduces the chance of cracking or breaking.
How Often Should I Check My Aquarium Glass For Cracks?
Generally, it is recommended to inspect the aquarium glass for cracks at least once a week. This routine inspection basically helps identify any potential issues before they turn serious.
What Issues I Have To Face With A Fish Tank Glass?
Some common issues you might face include crack, scratches, cloudiness, algae growth, water stains, mineral deposits etc. And if they aren’t addressed regularly, they will affect the aesthetics, visibility, and structural integrity of the fish tank.
Is A Bigger Tank Better For Fish?
Obviously better. Because a bigger tank not only provides more swimming space and better water quality but also reduces the stress on the fish. A bigger tank also helps the owner effortlessly maintain the water quality.
Conclusion
So finally, before setting up a fish tank, do proper research and talk to your nearest fish and aquarium experts.
Remember that different species of fish have different characteristics and require different types of environments.
Besides, fish are susceptible to the water’s temperature. So always monitor the tank’s temperature and try to maintain the tank’s mineral and nutrient levels within the proper range.