For years, traditional glass was the only glass used in windows, but now plexiglass has become the ideal material you want to adorn your windows and tables with. In addition to being cheaper than glass windows, it is also way more resistant and durable.
Plexiglass sheets are flexible, insulated clear acrylic sheets that can stand tall in any weather condition, be it a strong storm or hail. Yet, plexiglass acrylic glass is as transparent as regular glass that you do not even notice the glass sheets aren’t real glass. In fact, compared to regular glass, which loses its color if it’s too thick, clear plexiglass sheets allow 100 percent light to pass through no matter how thick it is.
If you are planning on replacing your regular windows with a storm-resistant plexiglass sheet, you are going to have to take certain precautionary steps. It isn’t an easy task by any means and would require you to go through a lot of trouble. Still, at the end of the day, you will have plexiglass panels made of cheap plexiglass.
Measure the Outside of the Window
When you’re trying to fit in plexiglass acrylic sheets into already cut window frames, you need to be really careful with the measurements. If the plexiglass is too small, it will leave too much space on both sides of the frame. If the plexiglass cut is too large, it won’t fit the window frame.
In reality, space, where you have to fit in the glass, is a little bigger than what you can see. You need to take the dimensions of the area the glass is supposed to fit in, also referred to as a tight fit.
Around the frame of the window, you will find the glazing beading. Glazing beading is the wood or plastic that stays side by side with the glass to hold the window frame. You need to find the outer edges of this beading on all sides of the frame.
For you to get the horizontal tight fit dimensions, you need to measure the distance covered by the outer edges of the frame from top to bottom. Note down the measurements on a piece of paper.
Similarly, measure the vertical dimensions by checking the distance between the outer edges on both edges from left to right. Don’t forget to write down the measurements.
Now, from the dimensions you have recorded, remove 1⁄4 inch out of the way. The measurement you now get is what you should rely on to cut the plexiglass sheets. Usually, at least ⅛ inch is deducted from all sides of the dimensions so that ultimately, the glass turns out to be a little smaller than the frame.
This way, the frame can expand and contract without belting out any damage to the glass. Since the rule states that ⅛ inch should be removed from each side from the ultimate measurement of distance, a total of ¼ inch is removed.
Choose the Right Thickness of Plexiglass
While thickness isn’t really a major factor you need to focus on while choosing plexiglass; the sheets usually come in thickness size of ⅛, ¼ or 3/16. Most homeowners settle for ⅛ or ¼ thickness, which is quite clear and allows plenty of light inside your room. However, if you want the glass to be a little thicker, you can opt for 3/16, which is more resistant. In general, all forms of plexiglass are appropriate for any bad weather.
How to Cut Plexiglass Safely?
While plexiglass is actually easier to cut than regular clear glass or wood, it still requires utmost consideration and details with regard to safety before you start working on the plexiglass sheets.
While Plexiglass looks dull and soft, if they are cut recently, the edges can still be quite sharp. While you are trying to cut the plexiglass or shaping it, make sure to wear a good, sturdy pair of gloves. This can prevent your hands or fingers from getting nicked or even get a big enough cut to bleed.
When plexiglass is cut, it shatters into tiny shards of hard plastic and spreads around the area. If you are using a table saw to cut the glass, the bits and pieces of those shards could be flying around, and there is a real chance of them getting directly into your eyes.
Hence, it should come as no surprise that safety glasses are a must right from when you first bring out the plexiglass until you finish shaping it, so your eyes don’t get invaded by tiny pieces of shards.
Along with gloves and goggles, it might be a good idea to wear closed-toed boots as well. Those flying shards could very well fall on the ground you are walking on, and you don’t want a piece to pierce your foot. The more attention you pay to safety, the less you will have to worry about needing to visit the hospital later on.
Now, onto the cutting plexiglass. First, lay the plexiglass sheets out on a flat surface, preferably your work table, so you don’t have to bend over while working on it. Make use of a grease pencil to mark the areas that you want to cut. On the off chance, you end up cutting more than necessary, use a ruler or tape to measure the areas and to make sure you have it aligned straight.
Using the lines, you have drawn upon, with accurate precision, use a glass cutter to score the plexiglass five to ten times. Once you have scored it, move it along to the edge of the table. The last step is to apply a strong, downward force so that the plexiglass breaks along the scored area.
Sometimes, instead of cutting simple rectangular or square shapes, you might want to cut more complex shapes. At times the plexiglass sheets might be too thick. In such cases, you might want to rely on workshop tools like a saw to get you through the day.
For this, follow the same steps as above up to marking and measuring the plexiglass sheets. Then, hold the guide plate of the saw against the surface of the sheet while you line up the metal plate which is attached to the saw. Now, press the trigger and begin making your cut.
When you are first getting into it, do it at a slow and controlled speed. If you think the blade is somehow getting away from the straight line you have set on the plexiglass, slowly let go of the trigger. Now, place the blade over the marks again when you have gotten a better hold of the saw and are confident it will follow a straight line this time.
Select Finishing of plexiglass
Once you have cut out the plexiglass, it is going to need some amount of smoothing and polishing before you can use it. To do so, first, you have to soak sandpaper in water for at least 15 minutes. It’s even better if you let it soak overnight.
Now, start the sanding process using a 120 grit sandpaper. Work your way up from the bottom of the grit level and watch as the edge of the plexiglass starts to get smoother than ever before. Keep going until you think it is time to use the 600 grit paper. This is the final bit of sanding the plexiglass is going to need. At the end of your labor, you will be left with the smoothest and polished edge you can imagine.
Now, get a drill that has a buffing attachment and a bit of polishing compound to your plexiglass. The last step is simple. Keep on buffing until you think the glass is shining as it should be. The end result should be clear plexiglass with curved edges so that no one gets hurt. Also, it should let in an ample amount of light.
Insert and Set the Plexiglass in Frame
Get rid of the existing pane of glass so that you can replace it with the plexiglass sheet you have prepared. To do so, you might have to remove the glazing compound that surrounds the piece of glass currently, and you might even have to break the glass apart to make it possible.
Use a putty knife to get rid of the remaining glazing compound. Safely remove the glazing compound by scraping the area gently so as not to leave a mark.
If the plexiglass sheet has to be used to fill the exterior side of the window or door, you will need to prime the wood a little. Around the opening, apply the thinnest layer of glazing compound that you can afford. Now, align the plexiglass sheet with the glazing beading.
To make sure your alignment is perfect, use someone else to hold the plexiglass sheet along with you. Attach the glass to the glazing points. Around the window, apply another layer of glazing compound. At this point, don’t forget to roll it around a little so it’s warm and pliable in your hands. Now, place it on all sides of the window. Make use of a putty knife, so that it is pushed tightly against the frame and the window at exactly 45 degrees.
In case you are attaching plexiglass to a fresh frame, make sure to cut wood at a 45-degree angle around the opening of the frame. You can determine the size and style of the wood-based on what you like.
These wood pieces’ act as stops for the glass. Similar to the stops you find in picture frames, they are not only used to make it look more attractive but have the crucial purpose of upholding the glass.
The only difference between stops on picture frames and windows is that the one on the window has stops on both sides. This is because window plexiglass sheets are thicker and larger and need an ample amount of support.
If you want the plexiglass to be installed directly to the middle of the frame, carefully place stops at the opening. In case you want the plexiglass to be flushed with the opening, install the stops to where the glass is facing the frame. To attach those pieces, you can use a nail gun.
Once you have removed the protective layer found around plexiglass, just insert the glass where the stops are, and you will find they are aligned correctly. After cutting another 4 stops at a 45-degree angle, so that it will fit snugly with the plexiglass, simply remove the last protective layer on the plexiglass. Keep the wood attached with the help of a nail gun.
Where Can I Buy Plexiglass?
Now that you are fully equipped with the knowledge on how to give your home the storm-resistant plexiglass window it deserves, you might be wondering where can I buy Plexiglas?
Fear not, for we have companies who offer plexiglass sheets for sale like Fab Glass and Mirror, ready to deliver the best plexiglass sheets at your request. In case you still have some leftover confusion on what kind of plexiglass sheets would be suited for your window or the thickness that you are most comfortable with, you can even engage in a long conversation with the expert on the website.
The site offers you options on the shape, dimensions, glass type, thickness, and edging. In case you are not currently comfortable with the cut you have made for yourself, you can rely on them to measure your windows for you and offer you custom made plexiglass.
On this topic, one can’t ignore that plexiglass sheets aren’t only good for windows, but plexiglass table tops, shelves, and furnishings among other things. Such things could also use a touch of the precious glass sheets. If you want to buy from Fab Glass ad Mirror, all you need to do is leave your details on the website and one of their expert professionals will contact you. Or you could use the site to directly order your custom plexiglass components as well.
FAQs
Plexiglass is a great material to replace your glass windows. Given the strength of plexiglass, windows made out of this material are more resilient and durable. They are also a more cost-effective alternative.
How thick should plexiglass be for windows? ›
Generally speaking, thicknesses of one-eighth of an inch or one-quarter of an inch are used for glazing, but the onetenth size can be used for small panels in doors; the thicker the panel, the more break-resistant it is. There are two methods of cutting the sheets to size: sawing and scribing.
Is plexiglass a good replacement for glass? ›
Glass tends to cost less than plexiglass, and can be more scratch resistant and more easily recycled. Though the benefits of plexiglass are that it is stronger, more shatter-resistant, and resistant to the elements and erosion than glass.
Can you build your own storm windows? ›
Traditional wood storm windows were made with mortise and tenon joinery, but you can also make a simplified DIY storm window with pocket-hole joinery and basic woodworking tools that I'll teach you to make today. Watch the video tutorial below and follow these simple steps and you'll be saving in no time!
How do you install plexiglass in a window frame? ›
Roll glazing putty in your hand until it forms a long snake. Push the putty along the inside of the window frame. Coat the entire inner frame and push the piece of plexiglass inside. Cover the perimeter of the plexiglass with more putty.
Does plexiglass crack in cold weather? ›
While acrylics respond to heat, they are not affected by cold, and will not become cracked or brittle in cold weather. Electrical Properties - Acrylic plastics are affected only a minor degree by weathering or moisture. Its surface resistivity is higher than that of most other materials, and makes an ideal insulator.
Are plexiglass windows cheaper? ›
Acrylic windows are more affordable and cost less than glass windows. The cost of an acrylic window in most cases is lower in comparison to an equivalent size glass window. One reason acrylic windows are less expensive is because glass is thicker and weighs more.
Are plexiglass windows cheaper than glass? ›
Budget: Glass is generally less expensive, scratch-resistant, and can be easily recycled. While plexiglass windows are generally more expensive than glass windows, you can shop around to buy a customized window replacement for an affordable price.
How thick does plexiglass need to be to not bend? ›
If there's a lot of support underneath the acrylic, you can choose a thinner sheet – although we would still advise a minimum thickness of 5mm – whereas if there is minimal support, we would recommend that you choose a minimum of 8mm in thickness to ensure that it stays stable.
How do you cut plexiglass for windows? ›
Fit a circular saw or table saw with a fine blade with crosscut teeth to prevent chipping the piece during the cut. Line the plexiglass sheet along the cut line. Use the saw at a slower speed, or keep the material cool by spraying water over the cut point during the saw operation.
Polycarbonate is the stronger material at 250 times the impact resistance of standard glass. Polycarbonate offers much more resilience than acrylic, making it ideal for highly demanding applications like bullet-resistant windows.
What material is like plexiglass but cheaper? ›
Plexiglass and Lexan are brand names for the plastics commonly known as acrylic and polycarbonate. Acrylic is less expensive and easier to fabricate, but can shatter if impacted with enough force.
Is there anything better than plexiglass? ›
Lexan is the strongest and can withstand impacts to such a degree that it won't crack. Instead, it displays resistance by bending. Plexiglass is still quite strong, but it may crack or chip, given enough time or impact. That's because it's a little less rigid than Lexan.
Can you tell the difference between plexiglass and glass? ›
Here's a breakdown of the differences between the two materials. Plexiglass is lighter in weight and stronger than glass but it is more expensive and more easily scratched. It is clearer than glass but will yellow when exposed to UV light.
What can I use instead of storm windows? ›
Indow window inserts are an alternative to exterior storm windows. Read on to learn more or visit our storm windows guide to see which works best for you.
What kind of glass is used for storm windows? ›
Storm windows can be made from many types of glass. 3/16' standard glass is the most common, but they can be made with tempered glass, tinted glass, laminated glass, Low-E glass and plexiglass (which is not glass at all).
How thick should a plexiglass frame be? ›
approx. 1/8" thick.
What is the best way to attach plexiglass? ›
Plexiglass pieces are not glued together – they are chemically welded together using special cement. Acrylic cement, for example, bonds plexiglass pieces permanently.
Can you put screws through plexiglass? ›
PLEXIGLAS® is drilled as easily as wood a few special properties must be factored in, however. Find out which drill bits are suitable for PLEXIGLAS®, how to drill and what to look out for during the process.
What temperature does mold grow on plexiglass? ›
Acrylic starts to soften at only 320F, which means you can heat it in your oven or with a heat gun and mold it into various shapes!
Acrylic (Plexiglas®, Lucite®, and Acrylite®) comes from natural gas and is completely inert when in solid form. American-made acrylic does NOT yellow in the sunlight. Witness the protective canopies and bubbles in the World War II bombers- they are still clear after 50 years in the sun!
Does plexiglass go yellow over time? ›
Many plastics yellow visibly in the course of time. PLEXIGLAS® does not. Even after 30 years, the absolute yellow- ness indices are among the lowest possible for plastics at the present time. PLEXIGLAS® complies with the guaranteed values listed in the table throughout the world.
Can you use plexiglass for exterior window? ›
In addition to being cheaper than glass windows, it is also way more resistant and durable. Plexiglass sheets are flexible, insulated clear acrylic sheets that can stand tall in any weather condition, be it a strong storm or hail.
What window material is cheapest? ›
Windows frames come in a number of different materials, including wood, vinyl aluminum, fiberglass and composite plastic. Vinyl-frame windows are the most affordable — as little as half the price of comparable wood-frame versions.
Does plexiglass keep out heat? ›
Acrylic and plexiglass have high thermal values and insulate buildings better than glass, helping to improve the efficiency of your structure.
Which is stronger tempered glass or plexiglass? ›
Plexiglass is a lighter material when compared to tempered glass. The latter is naturally dense, heavier, and stronger.
How do you cut thin plexiglass without it cracking? ›
For best results, use plastic that's paper masked or covered in a protective film – this will prevent any unintended chips or cuts in the acrylic. Then, place the blade at the topmost portion of the acrylic, apply a moderate amount of pressure, and pull the blade towards you to create a deep scoring mark.
Does plexiglass bend easily? ›
When you heat acrylic to 160 degrees Celsius, it becomes soft and bends easily. It's advisable to proceed with care. Bend the acrylic slowly and gently to avoid tearing the material on the exterior of the fold. After bending, heat the acrylic on the outside of the fold line briefly to seal it properly.
How much force can plexiglass take? ›
In general, plexiglass is going to be a little less expensive than safety glass, weighs much less, and can also help reduce glare. It's also incredibly strong, taking about 10,000 pounds of pressure per square inch (psi) to shatter.
What kind of blade do you cut plexiglass with? ›
To cut plexiglass neatly, you should use jigsaw blades that are bi-metal and have ten teeth per inch (10 TPI). You can also use blades that are hollow ground and very sharp. Avoid blades that are very fine because they can melt the plastic and may clog it.
Thicker plexiglass, strangely enough, allows for the simplest of the cutting processes. First, grab a metal ruler and a utility knife (preferably one with a brand new blade). Measure the ruler against the cutting line and then draw the knife repeatedly down its edge, gradually increasing the pressure with each pass.
Does Lowes cut plexiglass to size? ›
Cut in store to your specifications.
What's better acrylic or plexiglass? ›
We can give a short answer to this: there is absolutely no difference. This is because acrylic is the usual abbreviation for polymethyl methacrylate, and Plexiglas® is one of the many brand names of this plastic. Over time this brand name has become generic as 'plexiglass'.
Is acrylic sheet same as plexiglass? ›
Plexiglass with two s's is the generic term synonymous with acrylic sheet. Plexiglas® with one s is the brand name. Other trade names that have become comparable to Plexiglas® include Acrylite®, Lucite®, and Perspex®.
Is plastic the same as plexiglass? ›
Acrylic, also known as Plexiglass, is a versatile plastic material with a variety of purposes and benefits, available in a spectrum of colors and opacities. Acrylic plastic was first produced in 1928 and brought to the market by Rohm and Hass Company around 1933.
What is the most scratch resistant plexiglass? ›
Cast and extruded acrylic glass is among the thermoplastics with the highest surface hardness, as well as offering excellent scratch resistance.
What plastic is stronger than plexiglass? ›
If you are someone who wishes to have impact resistance glass that is 30 times stronger than acrylic, chemical resistant, or sheets that can be drilled without cracking, polycarbonate plastic is what suits your needs.
What material is used for plexiglass? ›
Acrylic is a transparent thermoplastic hom*opolymer known more commonly by the trade name “plexiglass.” The material is similar to polycarbonate in that it is suitable for use as an impact resistant alternative to glass (particularly when the high impact strength of PC is not required).
What are the benefits of plexiglass? ›
When compared to glass, Plexiglass often offers greater transparency, as glass is more likely to reflect light, creating reflections and glares. The thermoplastic offers greater shatter-resistance, durability and protection against erosion when compared to glass.
Does plexiglass yellow in the sun? ›
As mentioned, Acrylic aquaria built using quality float cast plastics should give you decades of service if properly cared for (not scratched and gouged). A yellowing can happen, sure if in direct sunlight, overheated, oe bombarded by UV.
Plexiglass: Pros & Cons
Acrylic is generally less expensive than polycarbonate, but different coating and grade options may alter the price of each material.
Can you replace window glass with plexiglass? ›
Plexiglass can give you the durability, ease, and low maintenance for window replacement, installation, and the care you are looking for. Despite a higher cost, investing in plexiglass will give you better long-term (overall) results than using standard glass installation for your windows.
Does plexiglass make good windows? ›
Plexiglass offers many advantages over glass and other forms of plastics. It is, therefore, a popular material for windows. Plexiglass and acrylic windows are strong, durable, and reliable. They do not shatter like glass and have better storm resistance.
Does plexiglass break? ›
Safety and Strength
Plexiglass sheeting is unique in that while it is extremely difficult to shatter, it can be broken, however, it doesn't break into a thousand tiny, dangerous shards.
What is the best material for hurricane windows? ›
The most cost-effective impact window glazing option is tinted laminated glass. Additionally, laminated glass or insulated laminated glass with a LoE coating would deliver even higher energy savings. While both options do cost a little more, they offer the best energy efficiency protection on the market.
What type of glass is used in storm windows? ›
Storm windows can be made from many types of glass. 3/16' standard glass is the most common, but they can be made with tempered glass, tinted glass, laminated glass, Low-E glass and plexiglass (which is not glass at all).
Is plexiglass hurricane resistant? ›
In addition to being cheaper than glass windows, it is also way more resistant and durable. Plexiglass sheets are flexible, insulated clear acrylic sheets that can stand tall in any weather condition, be it a strong storm or hail.
What is the least expensive window protection for a hurricane? ›
Storm Panels: $5-15 sq ft
For the most part, storm panels are the least expensive form of hurricane protection for safeguarding windows. There are a few reasons why the cost of panels is often so low: Storm panel materials aren't as costly to get/as complex to make as, say, hurricane shutters or screens.
What are unbreakable windows made of? ›
Although these panels look and function like glass windows, they are made of a combination of polycarbonate, acrylics, and other plastic resins. The combined strength and durability of its material composition makes polycarbonate panels a truly unbreakable and impenetrable solution.
What can I cover my windows with during a hurricane? ›
You can install hurricane shutters or storm panels over your window. Or you can replace your standard glass windows with impact windows. If in a pinch you can also use plywood, but this is not a reliable, long-term solution.
Here are some dos and don'ts of minimizing the storm's impact on your windows.
- Do Use Sturdy Storm Shutters. ...
- Don't Tape the Windows. ...
- Do Use Thick Plywood If You Don't Have Shutters. ...
- Don't Leave Windows Open. ...
- Do Clean up Yard Before the Storm. ...
- Do Use Impact-Resistant Window Film.
Storm windows, with frames made of wood, aluminum or PVC (vinyl) and glass or acrylic sheet glazing, are inserted in the interior or exterior frame of existing windows. They're often used on dwellings with older, single-pane windows because they offer an extra layer of insulation and soundproofing.
How do I make my windows unbreakable? ›
One of the best ways to burglar-proof windows is to install polycarbonate safety shields, like DefenseLite, over your existing windows. Polycarbonate is 250 times stronger than glass and nearly impenetrable by would-be thieves.
What is a good substitute for glass? ›
Acrylic sheets are an excellent alternative to glass. Acrylic sheet steals the show with its performance as it beats glass in the following characteristics: Impact resistance. Weathering.
Which of these can you use as a substitute for glass in windows? ›
Poly methyl methaacrylate is a transparent thermoplastic polymer. It is often used as a substitute of glass.
Does plexiglass break in the cold? ›
It can withstand temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius, and even the fiercest summer heat cannot damage the material: PLEXIGLAS® GS can be used at temperatures up to about 80 degrees Celsius and PLEXIGLAS® XT to about 70 degrees. Only at about 200 degrees Celsius does the material start to fuse.
Is plexiglass stronger than regular glass? ›
Glass is cheaper, scratch-resistant and can be easily recycled while plexiglass is shatter-resistant, stronger and can withstand stormy weather.
