Highly versatile and tough to break, Perspex, also known as Plexiglass, is a popular material for DIYers and professionals alike. Here we’ll answer the most common Perspex questions we receive to help you with your next project.

What is Perspex?

Perspex is a tradename for acrylic. Whether you call it Plexiglass or Perspex, Perspex acrylic is a premium branded version of acrylic, manufactured to the highest industry standards.

What is the difference between acrylic and Perspex?

Perspex and acrylic are the same thing. Acrylic is a transparent thermoplastic, known for being lightweight and shatter-resistant. Perspex is a brand of acrylic.

Why use Perspex?

• Light can get through: Perspex is a fantastic alternative to glass, with 92% light transmissions, technically making it clearer than glass.
• Durability: Perspex is also tougher than glass, minimizing the risk of shattering.
• Lightweight: Perspex is half the weight of glass, meaning it’s easier to handle and install. This also means it’s easy to cut, shape and drill depending on your needs.
• UV Resistance: unlike cheaper plastics, Perspex acrylic resists UV lights, meaning it won’t yellow over time.

How is Perspex made?

Perspex is manufactured from methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA) by casting the liquid MMA into moulds where it is cured into solid sheets. These sheets can then be processed into different shapes, sizes and colours. By routing Perspex, a high level of accuracy and detailing can be achieved.

What should you use Perspex for?

The most popular use our customers seem to have for Perspex is as a window alternative. For both outside and in, Perspex can replace glass. This is especially useful for greenhouses with missing panes.
Our Perspex furniture protectors are also useful, providing a protective surface for tables that’s lightweight, tough, and won’t shatter.
Those are the obvious uses though, Perspex, or any acrylic, can be used as protective barriers, for displays and signage, and even for aquariums. The sky is the limit!

How Do You Cut Perspex?

We like to make it easy for you and can cut Perspex sheets to your specific size and shape by routing Perspex among other methods.

If you’d rather do it yourself, then we recommend you use blades and drills designed for acrylic to avoid chipping. For more information we recommend checking out our Working With Plastics section for further advice and tips.

More Questions?

If you’re still not sure, why not check out our Perspex page for more questions and answers there. Or, give our friendly team of experts a call, we’re always happy to help.