Perspex is a form of acrylic plastic that starts as a liquid and is then formed into a strong plastic. Due to its durability, flexibility and sustainability, acrylic is one of the best substitutes for glass. Over the years, the use of high-quality acrylic has expanded into several applications. Initially used to make windows for submarines and cars, acrylic sheets now have a variety of alternative uses (including construction, engineering and even photography). A durable plastic, it is versatile, cost-effective and a practical alternative to glass.
Below are some of the pros and cons of using acrylic sheets.
Pros of acrylic sheets
UV-resistant
As it is flexible and easily moulded into any shape, acrylic is perfect for creating various products. They are an ideal product to use outdoors as they are heat resistant up to 160 degrees C.
Reusable
Many restaurants prefer to use acrylic crockery and glassware as it is durable, shatterproof and easy to clean.
Eco-friendly
As it is synthetic, acrylic (i.e. Perspex) is easy to reuse. Due to the many ways you can make acrylic sheets into other things (plates, acrylic table tops, secondary glazing or shelves), it’s an eco-friendly choice.
Offers a wide variety of colours
Acrylic sheets are available in an extensive range of colours and designs. Depending on what you are using the material for, you can choose coloured sheets or you can opt for clear, acrylic sheets. These sheets are available in various styles, including frosted acrylic, fluorescent acrylic and mirror acrylic.
Dishwasher safe
Dishes and glassware made from Perspex sheets have been designed to hold up against the heat of a commercially manufactured dishwasher.
Cost-effective
Synthetically manufactured, glass look acrylic is cheaper to produce and purchase, therefore they are a great alternative to glass.
Cons of acrylic sheets
Low quality
Perspex sheets melt at high temperatures or from exposure to direct flames. The melting point for acrylic plastic is 160 degrees C, so it cannot withstand extreme temperatures. Acrylic is tough and durable, but can also be easily scratched.
Toxicity
The manufacturing process of acrylic products can release highly toxic fumes. Anyone who works to make acrylic sheets is provided with protective equipment and clothing. There is also a risk that the acrylic could blow up during polymerisation if you don’t take the right precautions.
Difficulties in recycling
Acrylic is recyclable, however, as it’s not bio-degradable the process is not as easy as putting it in your recycle bin or taking it to a bottle bank. But you can re-use acrylic (e.g. Perspex), by cutting larger sheets into small pieces and forming them into other products.
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This is such a great service. I'm thrilled with my purchases. I'm disabled and could not have managed to organise what I needed any other way. Thank you CutMy.
Bee Lilli ,
4 hours ago
Verified
Fast service
Fast service, good quality from the company - only let down by the delivery driver who couldn't fathom out how to lift a latch on a gate and just left parcel without attempting to knock or call.
Pat Collins,
4 hours ago
Verified
Excellent service
Excellent service, excellent ply
Bill Jarvis,
7 hours ago
Verified
Nice website and efficient service
Nice website showing the cut piece. Good prices and reasonably quick delivery (and well packed to reduce possibility of damage). This is my second order from CutMy.
Most importantly, the pieces were accurately cut using the specified material. i.e. no errors.
It couldn't have been better unless it was free :)
Frank,
7 hours ago
Verified
Great service from Cut My.
This was my first time using Cut My supplier to cut a piece of wood to a specific size. I am very happy with the service i received from them.
My order arrived safe, securely wrapped and in good condition.
I will recommend this supplier to friends and will use them again for this type of service.
Prisca,
9 hours ago
Verified
Perfect !
Really good, I’d forgotten to get one of the edges done and the helpline sorted it and sent the edging next day. Really nice quality
Sean Nugent,
8 hours ago
Verified
Excellent service
Excellent service, quick easy to order what you want cut to size. Nothing seems to be a problem.
Definitely recommend and will use again.
Michael Davison,
8 hours ago
Verified
2nd order hopefully delivery will be as…
2nd order hopefully delivery will be as good as the 1st one
jon allsopp,
8 hours ago
Verified
Good quality plywood delivered promptly and in good condition
Good quality plywood delivered promptly and in good condition
M from Birmingham UK,
8 hours ago
Verified
Parts cut exactly to size
Parts cut exactly to size, good quality, arrived on time and reasonable price.
Kevin Murray,
8 hours ago
Verified
Great company to deal with
Excellent value, great service and arrived extremely well packaged which is always a concern when ordering things that can easily be damaged. Highly recommend this company
David Farmer,
8 hours ago
Verified
Excellent service
Really easy to order the exact sizes of plywood that I needed and delivered quickly as well
D Bolton,
9 hours ago
Verified
Easy to use website
Easy to use website. All work competently carried out and packing exceptional. Highly Recommended.
PHILLIP STRAUSS,
9 hours ago
Verified
First Class Product & All Round Service
Excellent quality product. Easy to understand & use website coupled with good price & fast delivery. I would recommend this company.
Mr Tim Parrett,
10 hours ago
Verified
Perfect solution.
Great quality smoky perspex cut to the exact spec to replace actual glass on my coffee table in order to make it child proof. It fits perfectly and looks like the real McCoy! Saved me buying a new coffee table. Win, win👌
Placing order was very straight forward. Acrylic sheets arrived very quickly and extremely well packed with protective film either side.
The 4mm thick Acrylic sheets now installed, very clear and without scratches or marks. I would recommend this Company.
Michael Haley,
11 hours ago
New Shed Windows
I was initially a little worried about some of the recent negative reviews but based on my experience, I can't fault Cut/My's perspex service. Excellent quality materials, delivered on the day promised, size absolutely spot-on. My shed's now got new windows.
Robert Wood,
14 hours ago
Verified
Having made several purchases in the…
Having made several purchases in the past, once again it was top service and delivery. Recommend to get all your plastic from here
Fletch,
14 hours ago
Verified
Efficient
Efficient ordering process and prompt delivery.
Jonathan ,
17 hours ago
Verified
Great product
Great product. Super service
Roland,
17 hours ago
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