AquariumGlass thickness help

[Unheardreefer]

I have a friend who can get me glass but the problem is he can get 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch, not the 3/8ths I wanted. I wanted to build a 30x20x18high rimless and he can get me each panel of the 1/4 for $16 and $60 each panel for the 1/2. Is the 1/4 inch glass enough for my build and can I save the $220?

 

[LesPoissons]

Most 55g are built using 1/4 glass, you should be fine.

 

[Jonathan Troutt]

Most 55g are built using 1/4 glass, you should be fine.

Most 55gals that are using 1/4 are trimmed. OP is talking rimless. I personally would go thicker.

 

[LesPoissons]

Totally missed the rimless. Good point. Without the rim idk how well 1/4 would handle pressure. Its def safer to go thicker if you dont want a rim.

 

[Unheardreefer]

According to a glass thickness calculator it said I could use a 7mm glass using a 3.8 safety factor. If I threw in a 2 inch euro brace you think that could make the difference?

 

[Jonathan Troutt]

According to a glass thickness calculator it said I could use a 7mm glass using a 3.8 safety factor. If I threw in a 2 inch euro brace you think that could make the difference?

Yes a euro brace would make a difference .

 

[Billdogg]

Do you want to maybe be safe with the 1/4" or have the piece of mind of the 1/2"? I'd go with the 1/2" myself and not worry about whether it will be ok next week, month, or year.

When you factor in the associated costs if it does fail, $220 is a literal drop in the bucket.