I have the platsa as Sprout’s cage, and the original floor is definitely quite thin. Although I haven’t used one of the sides as the base (it seems to me like good idea though!) I have found a way to stop it from breaking/hamsters chewing it. I lined the inside of the platsa with acrylic plastic/plexiglass. It’s not flimsy as the wooden outside holds the plexiglass in place, and it’s super easy to clean, which I like. I’ve found it works quite well, and I prefer it over glass due to the scratchy noise glass makes (it’s a sensory issue of mine). I haven’t tried glass but if you prefer it over plexiglass it’s worth a try!
Sorry if this wasn’t exactly helpful to you, but I hope it gives you that extra option if you need it!