Float Glass Aquariums - The proven, robust classic for your underwater world

What is float glass, and why is it used for aquariums?
Float glass is the global standard in aquarium construction. It is made by floating molten glass on a layer of molten tin, which creates a smooth and uniform surface. This manufacturing process creates extremely flat, even glass that is free from bubbles and distortion, with excellent surface hardness. It is highly resistant to scratches, such as those caused by magnetic cleaners, and offers a safe and stable structure for many years.

What is the difference between float glass and clear glass?
The main difference lies in the iron oxide content of the glass. Float glass has a natural, very slight green tint, which is most noticeable along the glass edges or in very thick panes. In reality, this slight tint is barely noticeable in classic community aquariums and densely planted tanks. Clear glass, by contrast, is specially decolourised for maximum colour accuracy, but is also somewhat softer, more prone to scratching and more expensive than robust float glass.

At what tank size should I start considering the thickness of float glass?
There is no need to worry about glass thickness vs aquarium size because quality manufacturers take this into consideration when designing an aquarium. The thickness of the glass is calculated based on structural requirements and the DIN standard for aquarium construction. While small nano cubes often use float glass with a thickness of 4-5 mm, the pane thickness automatically increases to 6-8 mm or more for larger or deeper tanks, allowing them to withstand water pressure with ease.