Contact us for advice or more details. Our glass experts are here to help.
Call ( +1 888-474-2221 )
Acrylic sheets, also known as acrylic glass or plexiglass, are the clear, shatter-resistant alternative homeowners and businesses reach for when regular glass won't do the job. At Fab Glass and Mirror, we stock acrylic sheets in ready-to-ship standard sizes and thicknesses, so there's no wait on fabrication, just order and it ships. Need a full 4’x8’ plexiglass sheet for a storefront window, or large acrylic sheet 48x96 for a table top or backsplash? We carry large plexiglass sheets from 1/8″ up to 3/4″ thick in stock. Ready to buy acrylic sheets? Get an instant clear acrylic sheet price, as the direct manufacturer, we cut out the distributor markup.
We stock both cast and extruded acrylic sheets, and the right one depends on what you are building.
Cast acrylic is manufactured by pouring liquid methyl methacrylate monomer into glass molds, where it undergoes a slow batch curing process. This meticulous technique yields a higher molecular weight, superior optical clarity, exceptional chemical resistance, and minimal internal stress, making the finished material far less prone to crazing during solvent bonding or fabrication. When laser-cut or engraved, cast acrylic achieves a crisp, beautifully frosted white aesthetic rather than melting along the cut edges. It machines exceptionally smoothly and maintains outstanding structural integrity under thermal stress or intense mechanical friction. Consequently, it remains the premier industry choice for large public aquariums, point-of-purchase retail displays, luxury furniture, architectural glazing, and precision-routed signage.
Extruded acrylic is manufactured in a continuous industrial process where liquid polymer resin is pushed through a shaping die as it cools. This automated method gives the material significantly tighter thickness tolerances across large sheets and makes it noticeably easier to flame-polish to a sleek, glass-like edge. Additionally, its lower melting point allows it to thermoform exceptionally well, making custom heat-bending tasks both straightforward and efficient. It is typically more affordable than cast alternatives, making it a budget-friendly fit for general glazing, acrylic picture frames, light diffusers, and protective tabletop covers. However, because the material is softer, high-speed routing can cause it to gum up, and laser engraving yields a less crisp finish. For high-volume commercial projects requiring uniform dimensions, extruded acrylic remains an ideal, highly cost-effective material choice.
If you are not sure which one your project needs, our team can help you decide before you order; contact us and we will point you in the right direction.
| Feature | Acrylic Sheets | Glass |
|---|---|---|
| Strength & Safety | 10× more impact-resistant than glass; shatter-resistant for high-traffic spaces. | Brittle and prone to shattering into sharp shards on impact. |
| Weight & Handling | 50% lighter than glass. Easy to lift, mount, and ship economically. | Heavier and structurally demanding; needs stronger supports. |
| Optical Clarity | Up to 92% light transmission for a brilliant, clean view. | Excellent clarity, but without the impact-resistance backup. |
| Fabrication & Installation | Easy to cut, drill, and shape on-site; flexible for unique designs. | Rigid; requires specialized professional tools to modify. |
| Outdoor Longevity | Excellent UV & moisture resistance; won't yellow or degrade easily. | Can degrade or become compromised with prolonged exposure. |
| Cost & Heat Resistance | Cost-effective and budget-friendly; moderate heat resistance to 160°F. | Pricier to source and replace, though it tolerates higher heat. |
Lightest weight, most affordable. Replaces glass in frames where weight and shatter risk matter — popular for shipping artwork and DIY projects.
Select your thickness and desired size of acrylic glass sheet, we will ship it to your address anywhere in the US, insured against breakage in transit.
At Fab Glass and Mirror, our acrylic panel is perfect for everything from home decor to commercial displays. We tailor each sheet to fit your exact needs, ensuring style, safety, and durability in every application.
Acrylic sheets offer glass-like transparency with up to 92% light transmission, but are 10x more impact-resistant, ensuring safety in high-traffic or sensitive areas. Unlike glass, acrylic sheet is lightweight and shatter-resistant, making it easier to handle, transport, and install. it allows for seamless integration into any design whether for window panels, signage, or protective barriers. Acrylic is also waterproof, UV-resistant, and weather-tough, which makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It resists yellowing and fading under sunlight and holds up well against moisture, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, patios, and commercial spaces. Additionally, cut to size acrylic sheets are easy to clean, maintain, and fabricate (cut, drill, or polish). For long-lasting clarity and performance, Fab Glass and Mirror offers expertly crafted custom acrylic solutions to your specifications.
No, polycarbonate and acrylic glass are not the same, though both are clear plastics used as glass alternatives. Polycarbonate is stronger and more impact-resistant, making it ideal for high-security or heavy-duty uses. Acrylic sheets offer better clarity and are more scratch-resistant, making it suitable for display and decorative purposes. Each serves different needs based on durability and appearance. Polycarbonate is commonly used in bulletproof glass windows, safety shields, and protective gear because of its toughness. Acrylic, on the other hand, is lighter, easier to cut, and provides a crystal-clear finish that makes it perfect for signage, aquariums, and home décor. While acrylic tends to be more affordable, polycarbonate justifies its higher cost with superior strength. Choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize durability, optical clarity, or cost-effectiveness.
Commonly Asked
Questions. Find the answer to all your queries at a glance.
Need Expert Opinion Contact Us Anytime!
Yes. "Plexiglass" is a popularized brand name for acrylic sheet (PMMA) that's become the generic term people use, the same way "Kleenex" is used for facial tissue. There's no material difference between acrylic sheet, acrylic glass, and plexiglass sold today.
Cast acrylic is poured and cured between glass plates, giving slightly better optical clarity and a more consistent finish for laser cutting and engraving. Extruded acrylic is pushed through a die, making it faster to produce and more affordable, a better fit for large flat panels like table tops or windows.
Acrylic sheet is about 17 times more impact-resistant than standard glass of the same thickness, while weighing roughly half as much. It won't shatter into sharp shards the way glass does, which is why it's common in barriers and sneeze guards.
Yes. UV-stabilized acrylic glass resists yellowing, clouding, and brittleness from sun exposure, making it suitable for storm windows, greenhouse panels, and outdoor signage. Non-UV grades are better reserved for indoor use.
Use a soft microfiber cloth with mild soap and water, or a plastic-safe cleaner, never ammonia-based glass cleaner, which can cause crazing. Wipe in straight lines and dry with a clean cloth to avoid spotting.
For picture frames or craft projects, 1/8" is usually enough. For sneeze guards or signage, 1/4" is most common. For table tops or larger unsupported panels, 1/2" to 3/4" prevents bowing. See the thickness guide above for application-specific picks.
Pricing depends on thickness, finish, and edge work. A basic 1/8" clear 4'x8' sheet costs less than the same size in 1/2" or 3/4" thickness, since material cost scales with thickness. Request a custom quote for exact pricing.
Window Replacements and Storm Panels
Tabletop Protectors and Furniture Covers
DIY Acrylic Picture Frames and Wall Art
Bathroom Partitions and Shelving
Kitchen Backsplashes and Cabinet Inserts
Sneeze Guards and Protective Barriers
Retail Displays and
Office Partitions and Privacy Screens
Restaurant Menus and Table Dividers
Panels and Architectural Glazing