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Polycarbonate and acrylic sheets provide a versatile and durable solution for replacing glass in a wide range of applications. Lightweight, strong, and easy to work with, they are widely used in construction, agriculture, commercial, and residential sectors for a variety of interior and exterior renovation projects.
Available in a broad range of sizes, thicknesses, and colors.
Differences Between Polycarbonate and Acrylic
Polycarbonate Sheets: Extreme Strength
Polycarbonate is known for its very high impact resistance : up to 250 times stronger than glass. It is ideal for demanding environments.
Benefits :
- Good flexibility (can bend without breaking)
- Ideal for outdoor and industrial applications
- Extremely impact-resistant
- Resistant to temperature variations
Common Uses :
- Protective barriers
- Agricultural greenhouses
- Safety screens
- Roofs and shelters
Clear Polycarbonate Sheets
| Grade | Thickness | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 0.093″ | 18″ x 24″ |
| Standard | 0.093″ | 20″ x 32″ |
| Standard | 0.093″ | 28″ x 30″ |
| Standard | 0.093″ | 30″ x 36″ |
| Standard | 0.093″ | 36″ x 72″ |
| Standard | 0.093″ | 48″ x 48″ |
| Standard | 0.093″ | 48″ x 96″ |
| Standard | 0.118″ | 48″ x 96″ |
| Standard | 0.118″ | 72″ x 96″ |
Acrylic (Plexiglas): Perfect Transparency
Acrylic, often called Plexiglas, stands out for its exceptional transparency and rigidity. It provides a superior aesthetic finish.
Benefits :
- Glass-like transparency
- Rigid surface, scratch-resistant
- Excellent optical quality
- Easy to polish and cut
- Available in multiple colors
Common Uses :
- Display and signage
- Showcases and presentation stands
- Replacement windows
- Signs and decorative projects
Clear Acrylic Sheets
| Grade | Thickness | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 0.080″ | 18″ x 24″ |
| Standard | 0.080″ | 20″ x 32″ |
| Standard | 0.080″ | 28″ x 30″ |
| Standard | 0.080″ | 30″ x 36″ |
| Standard | 0.080″ | 48″ x 48″ |
| Standard | 0.118″ | 36″ x 72″ |
| Standard | 0.118″ | 48″ x 96″ |
| Commercial | 0.220″ | 18″ x 24″ |
| Commercial | 0.220″ | 20″ x 32″ |
| Commercial | 0.220″ | 28″ x 30″ |
| Commercial | 0.220″ | 30″ x 36″ |
| Commercial | 0.220″ | 36″ x 72″ |
| Commercial | 0.220″ | 48″ x 48″ |
| Commercial | 0.220″ | 48″ x 96″ |
| Color – Frosted white | 0.118″ | 24″ x 36″ |
| Color – Frosted | 0.118″ | 24″ x 36″ |
| Color – Obscure | 0.118″ | 24″ x 36″ |
| Color – Bronze | 0.118″ | 24″ x 36″ |
| Color – Red | 0.118″ | 24″ x 36″ |
| Color – Green | 0.118″ | 24″ x 36″ |
| Color – Yellow | 0.118″ | 24″ x 36″ |
| Color – Blue | 0.118″ | 24″ x 36″ |
Benefits of Polycarbonate and Acrylic Panels
Easy Installation
Unlike glass, polycarbonate and acrylic are easy to work with, making them popular with both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. They allow great flexibility for custom projects and reduce common issues associated with glass on job sites, such as delays caused by broken panels or the risk of injury during installation.
Other Advantages for Your Projects:
- Drilling without cracking (use a plastic drill bit)
- Easy cutting (saw, CNC, laser)
- Simple gluing and assembly
- Polishing for clear finishes
- Hot or cold bending depending on the material (see FAQ below)
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Excellent durability
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Plexiglas and Acrylic?
None. Plexiglas is simply a commonly used name to refer to acrylic.
Does polycarbonate yellow over time?
Some polycarbonate sheets can yellow if they are not UV-treated. The polycarbonate panels sold at Avenord provide excellent resistance to yellowing.
Can I cut acrylic and polycarbonate sheets myself?
Yes, polycarbonate and acrylic sheets can be cut with standard tools. A circular saw or a fine-toothed handsaw is recommended for the best results. Pro tip: During cutting, support the sheet near the cut line and hold it firmly to avoid vibrations or movement.
Which is the better choice: acrylic or polycarbonate?
There is no single “better” choice. It depends on your project. Polycarbonate is the best option if you want a transparent panel that is somewhat flexible and offers exceptional impact resistance. Acrylic is more impact-resistant than glass but less so than polycarbonate. However, it is more rigid, less prone to scratches than polycarbonate, and provides glass-like transparency.
Can acrylic and polycarbonate panels be used for outdoor projects?
Yes, acrylic and polycarbonate panels can be used outdoors.
Pro tip: All plastics expand in heat and contract in cold. When installing polycarbonate or acrylic panels outdoors, always drill holes slightly larger than the mounting screws to allow the panel to move naturally with temperature changes. If the panel needs to be installed in a frame, leave about 1/8 inch of clearance for an 8-foot-long panel.
Example of acrylic and polycarbonate expansion:
- Acrylic: approximately 0.0028” / ft / 40°C
- Polycarbonate: approximately 0.0026 in / ft / 40°C
Can polycarbonate and acrylic panels be bent?
Acrylic is known for its rigidity, so it must be heated to be bent. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, can be curved even when cold. However, if you want a sharp angle (for example, 90 degrees), it is also recommended to heat polycarbonate for a clean, precise bend.
