Advantages of acrylic over glass

Are you unsure whether to choose glass or acrylic for your project? You’re not the only one. Both materials have a clear appearance, but differ significantly in terms of properties and applications. In this blog, you can find out what acrylic is and why an acrylic sheet is a practical alternative to glass in many situations.

What is acrylic?

Acrylic, also known as PMMA or commonly referred to as acrylic glass, is a transparent plastic with high light transmission. The material is often used as a substitute for glass, as it has similar visual properties but offers other technical advantages.

Acrylic sheets are produced in cast (GS) or extruded (XT) forms. Both types are clear, strong and easy to work with. As a result, acrylic is used in both interior design projects and technical applications. In addition to sheets, other forms are also available, such as acrylic tube and solid blocks. This makes the material highly versatile, unlike glass, for example.

The main advantages of acrylic

Although glass is still widely used, acrylic offers practical advantages in many situations. Below are the main differences.

1. Lighter in weight

An acrylic sheet is approximately 50% lighter than glass. This makes the material easier to transport and install. This is a major advantage, particularly when dealing with larger surfaces or structures.

2. Stronger and more impact-resistant

Acrylic is much more impact-resistant than standard glass. Whereas glass can shatter on impact, acrylic is more resistant to knocks. This makes the material suitable for applications where safety is a priority, such as protective panels or partitions.

3. High light transmission

A key advantage of acrylic glass is its high light transmission. Acrylic allows up to approximately 92% of light to pass through. This is often even higher than with traditional glass, making the material ideal for applications where clarity is important.

4. Easy to edit

Acrylic sheets are easy to cut, mill, drill and polish. This makes the material ideal for bespoke work and creative applications. Glass often requires specialised processing, whereas acrylic can be worked using standard tools. Products such as plastic rods are easy to customise and are therefore well suited to bespoke projects.

5. Versatile in its applications

Thanks to its combination of clarity, strength and workability, acrylic is used in many sectors. These include interior design, advertising, displays and technical applications. The Kunststof Forte range offers a wide selection plexiglass sheets for various applications, ranging from clear to opal or coloured.

So when should you opt for glass?

Although acrylic offers many advantages, glass remains a good choice in some situations. For example, glass has a harder surface and is therefore more scratch-resistant. Glass also has a higher temperature resistance. For applications where heat or scratches are a major concern, glass may therefore still be the preferred option. In many other cases, however, an acrylic sheet offers greater flexibility and ease of use.

Practical applications of acrylic

Acrylic is used in a wide range of projects, both commercial and domestic. Thanks to the material’s versatility, you can easily adapt it to your specific application. Some common applications include:

• Secondary glazing and protective panels
• Showcases and displays
• Furniture components and interior finishes
• Illuminated signage and illuminated panels
• Technical components and shielding

Acrylic as a practical alternative to glass

Are you looking for a material that is light, strong and easy to work with? In many cases, acrylic is a practical choice. Acrylic sheets offer high light transmission, are lighter than glass and easier to work with.

At Kunststof Forte, you’ll find a wide range of acrylic products, from sheets to rods and tubes. You can easily order online and benefit from fast delivery, secure payment and personalised advice. Are you unsure whether to choose glass or acrylic for your project? Please feel free to contact We’ll help you make the right choice.