Get the cement mixing tubs from Home depot. I trust them with about 100 breeder rats, hands down the best.

I can get you some info on the rack I built if you want involving those tubs. How many tubs do you plan to do? I run 4 females per tub and rotate males. Nursing moms are left 2-3 litters per tub and I have been having awesome success. Add the auto watering system and wire mesh, for a 20 tub system you are looking at about 300-400$ tops. A small price to pay when you add up how much space, time, and money you save ditching the heavy glass. The only thing I can reccomend, find a good pine shaving supplier and a good lab block supplier.