When you’re selecting materials for your next construction, design, or DIY project, choosing between acrylic vs glass can make a significant difference in cost, safety, and durability. Both materials offer transparency and sleek aesthetics, but each has strengths depending on the project type.
At Jeewa Plastic, we help homeowners, builders, and architects across Sri Lanka make confident choices for their material needs. This complete buyer’s guide breaks down everything you need to know before purchasing acrylic or glass.
What Are Acrylic vs Glass?
Acrylic Sheets (PMMA):
- A clear, strong plastic material often used as a substitute for glass.
- Known for its high impact resistance and lightweight nature.
- Available in multiple finishes, thicknesses, and colors.
Glass:
- Traditional material made from sand, soda, and lime.
- Offers superior scratch resistance and a naturally smooth, hard finish.
- Often used for windows, mirrors, and luxury architectural features.
Types & Variants Available
Acrylic Sheets:
- Clear acrylic sheets
- Colored or tinted acrylic
- Frosted or textured acrylic
- UV-resistant outdoor-grade acrylic
- Thickness ranges: 2mm to 20mm (and beyond for custom orders)
Glass:
- Standard float glass
- Tempered (safety) glass
- Laminated glass
- Frosted or etched designs
- Available in varying thicknesses, usually heavier per square meter
How to Choose Based on Project Needs
Use Acrylic Sheets For:
- Display cases and retail shelves
- Picture frames
- Interior partitions
- Signage boards and name boards
- Outdoor advertising panels
- Safety windows in schools or public spaces
- DIY home projects where weight and breakage are concerns
Use Glass For:
- High-end windows and facades
- Glass doors and railings
- Mirrors and decorative panels
- Architectural luxury designs
- Applications where maximum scratch resistance is necessary
Cost & Value Breakdown
Acrylic Sheets:
- Lower initial material cost (compared to specialized glass)
- Easier and cheaper to transport and install
- Reduced replacement costs due to high impact resistance
- Lower maintenance costs long-term
Glass:
- Affordable for basic float glass
- Higher pricing for tempered or laminated safety glass
- Higher transportation, handling, and labor costs
- Long lifespan but more expensive to repair if broken
Durability, Safety & Handling
Acrylic Sheets:
- Up to 20x more impact resistant than glass
- Lightweight and easy to cut, drill, or shape
- Won’t shatter dangerously; safer in public or residential spaces
Glass:
- Harder surface; highly scratch-resistant
- Brittle under heavy impact
- Requires specialized equipment for cutting and handling
- Tempered versions improve safety but add cost
Appearance & Finishing Options
Acrylic Sheets:
- Excellent optical clarity with 92% light transmission
- Available in multiple colors, tints, and finishes
- Can be polished for a glass-like shine
Glass:
- Pristine clear appearance with slight green tint in thick panels
- Highly polished natural surface
- Superior scratch resistance to acrylic
Why Buy from Jeewa Plastic
- Wide stock of craft acrylic sheets and multiple thickness options
- Custom cutting services available
- UV-resistant and outdoor-grade acrylic options
- Competitive pricing across Sri Lanka
- Expert staff to guide you to the right material for your project
- Reliable, fast delivery nationwide