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Advice / Blog / Glass or Acrylic Plastic: How to Choose Which to Use?

Glass or Acrylic Plastic: How to Choose Which to Use?

Written by MS
16/08/2021 10:00:33

The most common question we get asked here at The Plastic People is: what is best for my DIY project? Acrylic or glass?. So, in this blog, we are going to closely compare the two materials to help you decide what is best for you!
 
Typically, glass is the go-to material for a wide range of DIY and home renovation projects, such as glazing and framing replacements, and tabletop protectors. Nevertheless, we think you should consider using acrylic (aka. Perspex, Plexiglas, and PMMA). 
 
If you are convinced by our argument today, then make sure to check out our store for the wide range of acrylics we have on offer. You can get an instant quote on any colour and size of an acrylic sheet by clicking here - we are never beaten on price! 
 
Why choose acrylic?
 
The benefits of acrylic plastic over glass is a pretty expansive list, but here are the top perks of using Perspex as a glass replacement:
  • Lightweight: At around half the weight of glass, acrylic plastic is a lot easier to move and work with. 
 
  • Price: Acrylic is typically a more cost-effective material to use than glass. 
 
  • Durability: Acrylic sheets are strong - in fact, they are around 17 times stronger than glass. Acrylic mirrors, too, are more durable than traditional glass ones. 
 
  • Functionality: As acrylic can be cut, drilled, bent, joined and more all at home, it is a better DIY material - especially for those with less experience! 
 
  • Child-safe: Acrylic is shatterproof, which means, if it does break, the plastic will splinter into several large, dull pieces instead of lots of small, sharp shards like glass. Acrylic is also incredibly hygienic and can just be wiped clean. 
 
  • Insulation: When it comes to keeping your home warm, acrylic is a better choice than glass as it has better heat retention capabilities. 
 
Where to use acrylic glass? 
 
Now we’ve covered the perks of acrylic sheets, it’s worth thinking about applications. These are just some of our top uses of acrylic - more can be found online and across our website. 
 
 
  • Framing: Acrylic is as clear as glass, which makes it the perfect material for picture frames. As it is more durable, acrylic and Perspex glass both ensure that your artwork or photos are protected! At The Plastic People, we produce made to measure acrylic frames - you can get an instant quote by clicking here. 
 
  • Mirrors: Not many people know that acrylic is available with a mirrored finish too. Acrylic plastic mirrors are suitable for use both indoors and outdoors and, like any other plastic sheet or product, can be cut to any size or shape! We offer bespoke mirror services on our website - click here to find out more. 
 
  • Splashbacks: Giving your kitchen a new lease of life doesn’t have to be expensive. The easiest way to completely remodel your kitchen is with a fitted splashback. Traditionally, consumers may have opted for metal, glass, cork splashbacks or tiles, but Perspex plastic is the cost-effective alternative. With a plastic splashback, installation is easy and grout-free! Available in a rainbow of colours and finishes - including matte and high gloss - you can get an instant quote on perspex splashbacks by clicking here. 
 
  • Table Tops: Protecting your furniture and tabletops from spills, scratches, and other damage has traditionally been done with glass covers, but clear acrylic covers do the job even better! As acrylic is lighter weight and shatterproof, plastic furniture protectors are a lot easier to install than their glass counterparts. Find out by clicking here today. 
 
 
Further Help
 
Our customers are always coming up with innovative and exciting DIY uses of acrylic sheets in their homes. If you are in need of some design inspiration, make sure to check out our Customer Stories on our website by clicking here. 
 
If you need any more advice on how and when to use acrylic in your home, please get in touch with our customer support team. They can be reached at service@theplasticpeople.co.uk or via the website by clicking here. 
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