Glass or acrylic: how do you decide which to use? Acrylic sheet is a form of plastic that has several advantages over standard glass and can be used as an alternative in many applications. But how do you know when it’s best to use acrylic and when you should opt for standard glass? For example, is acrylic cheaper than glass? To help you decide, we’ll take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of each material.
Advantages of acrylic over glass: is acrylic stronger than glass?
One of the most important benefits of acrylic is that it’s much stronger but also lighter than glass. It’s easy to process this material without breaking it, which makes it a popular choice for DIY projects. Clear acrylic is also very translucent, allowing just as much light to pass through as real glass. Acrylic sheet is also very hardwearing and will not discolour or weather, keeping its good looks for years. Finally, it’s also good to know that acrylic sheet is much more affordable than standard glass.
Advantages of glass over acrylic: is acrylic better than glass?
The main advantage that glass offers compared to acrylic is aesthetic. Glass is slightly more translucent than acrylic sheet, allowing in a little more light. The difference is only minor but might be a key factor in some situations. Another benefit of glass is that it isn’t UV sensitive – acrylic sheets sometimes fade when exposed to bright sunlight for extended periods.
Glass is heavier than acrylic and this can be helpful for some applications. Constructions using glass are more stable than acrylic ones. Unlike acrylic, glass is not easily scratched and it is also inflammable and more resistant to heat.
Benefits of acrylic
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When to choose acrylic
Thanks to its low weight, acrylic is very suitable for applications where saving weight is crucial, such as caravan and boat windows, roof lights and aquariums. And when you have to process the material, acrylic sheet is an ideal choice, for example for DIY projects such as secondary glazing, side tables, nameplates and accessories.
When to choose glass
Glass is the obvious choice for house windows and other applications that come into contact with bright sunlight and receive intensive use. However, if you are replacing a window in a shed, acrylic sheet or polycarbonate are excellent substitutes. Where security and safety is an issue, glass should be used because acrylic sheet is not resistant to heat and may even catch fire. Finally, glass is often used in places where safety is paramount and the temperature can rise. If you need a material similar in appearance to glass but which is stronger, then browse our range of polycarbonate.
Order acrylic sheet online
If you’re planning to use clear acrylic for replacement windows or whether you have another DIY project using acrylic in mind, we have a wide range of acrylic in sizes, colours and thicknesses to suit your requirements. We’ll cut the sheets to size for free and your order will be shipped within 24 hours. To find out more about the many applications of acrylic sheet, contact us on 0122 39 76 701 or email us.
