Acrylic vs. Polycarbonate Sheets, both have become highly popular choices for builders, DIYers, and commercial projects across Sri Lanka. While they may look similar at first glance, both clear, lightweight, and strong. These materials serve different purposes depending on your specific needs.
At Jeewa Plastic, we help customers evaluate both materials based on application, durability, cost, and long-term performance. Here’s a practical comparison to help you select the right material for your next project.
Quick Overview: What Are They?
Acrylic Sheets (PMMA)
- Known for glass-like clarity and a polished, professional appearance.
- Popular for signage, furniture, display cases, and décor.
- Lightweight, rigid, and affordable.
Polycarbonate Sheets (PC)
- Highly impact-resistant — nearly unbreakable.
- Often used for roofing, safety barriers, greenhouses, and industrial glazing.
- Extremely durable in harsh weather conditions.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Acrylic Sheets | Polycarbonate Sheets |
| Impact Resistance | Good | Exceptional (virtually unbreakable) |
| Clarity | Excellent (optical-grade) | High (slightly lower than acrylic) |
| Weight | Lightweight | Slightly heavier than acrylic |
| UV Resistance | Naturally UV-resistant | Requires UV coating for outdoor durability |
| Scratch Resistance | Better scratch resistance | More prone to surface scratches |
| Flexibility | More rigid | Flexible, can bend without breaking |
| Temperature Tolerance | Moderate | High (withstands heat better) |
| Cost | Generally lower cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Ease of Cutting | Easy with standard tools | Requires more care when cutting |
Acrylic vs. Polycarbonate Sheets, How to Choose Based on Your Project
Use Acrylic If You’re Building:
- Signboards & Name Boards
- Interior Décor Panels
- Display Cases or Product Stands
- Furniture Inserts or Shelving
- Picture Frames or Wall Art
- Small Home DIY Projects
Acrylic excels in any application where clarity, aesthetics, and rigidity are the priority.
Use Polycarbonate If You’re Building:
- Greenhouses
- Roofing (Patios, Carports, Skylights)
- Industrial Safety Barriers or Machine Guards
- Outdoor Shelters & Covered Walkways
- Transparent Security Shields
- High-Impact Protection Panels
Polycarbonate is best for outdoor, high-stress, or impact-prone environments where strength and flexibility are critical.
Budget Considerations Acrylic vs. Polycarbonate Sheets
While polycarbonate offers unmatched strength, its initial price is higher than acrylic. However, for outdoor, long-term, or safety-critical applications, the extra durability often justifies the cost.
Acrylic remains the most budget-friendly solution for decorative, indoor, and aesthetic projects that don’t require impact resistance.
Common Mistake: Treating Them as Interchangeable
Many first-time buyers assume acrylic and polycarbonate sheets can be used for the same projects. While they share similarities, choosing the right material ensures:
- Longer product lifespan
- Lower maintenance costs
- Safer installation and usage
- Better overall appearance
At Jeewa Plastic, we help you assess your exact project needs to avoid costly material mismatches.
Acrylic vs. Polycarbonate Sheets, Jeewa Plastic Is the Trusted Supplier for Both Materials
- Full stock of both acrylic sheets and polycarbonate sheets in multiple sizes and thicknesses.
- UV-coated options for outdoor use.
- Transparent, tinted, frosted, and colored sheets available.
- Expert guidance to match the right product with your budget and purpose.
- Competitive pricing with reliable delivery throughout Sri Lanka.