There are endless uses for Perspex in our homes! I have written you a few tips to get the most out of this wonderful material.
Note that the word Perspex is often used, but the material’s commercial name is acrylic.
What characterises the material?
Perspex sheets weigh about half as much as glass.
Perspex is durable and strong, meaning it is not easily affected by the elements; it is UV-resistant and withstands high fire temperatures.
All of this makes the material an ideal replacement for glass, especially when it comes to breakage: Perspex does not shatter like glass and is therefore safer around children (child safety gates), and it is even used for machine guarding in factories.
How do you clean Perspex?
It can be washed with mild soap and lukewarm water and then dried with a soft, gentle cloth. You can also wipe it with glass cleaner and dry it with a gentle cloth.
Oil or tar stains can be removed with white spirit, followed by water or glass cleaner.
Perspex sheets arrive with protective film on both sides (front and back). People sometimes think one side has arrived scratched and dirty – don’t worry, you haven’t bought a sheet full of scratches. The protective film guards the Perspex against small scratches during transport and installation.
In general, when working with Perspex it is best to leave the protective film on for as long as possible to protect it, and only remove it once the project is complete.
Working with Perspex – THINGS TO DO
If you want to drill holes in Perspex, do it while the sheet is clamped to something rigid – not in mid-air.
To cut Perspex, use a carbide-tipped saw / diamond disc.
It is very important to use sharp tools and to make the cut quickly without stopping halfway.
Afterwards, go over the cut edge with emery cloth and sand it.
THINGS DO NOT DO
Do not remove the protective film from the Perspex until it is really necessary, to keep it free of scratches.
Do not use a cutting tool that is not sharp, as it will create burrs and rough edges.
If you feel ready to take on the task and start creating wonderful things for your home, I invite you to read the article I wrote, “Learn to cut Perspex without leaving home“, where I will guide you step by step.
If you have decided that this isn’t for you today – you are welcome to contact us and we will do it for you.
We have been your Perspex and laser experts for more than 25 years, and we love taking care of you and your family with our products and service!