Plexiglass vs Lexan: Which one is Cheaper Option?
We look at some practical reasons so you can decide which safety glass is right for you.
02/02/2021
When you go to install protective glass for your home or business, a common question will be asked of you: Would you like Plexiglass or Lexan? For many, the answer is difficult, mainly because they do not know the difference between the two. The biggest difference is that they are made of different materials. Digging down more to know about Acrylic vs Polycarbonate then we can simply say that Plexiglass is made from acrylic while Lexan is made of polycarbonate.
Despite these two fundamental differences, both types of safety glass can be used for generally the same thing, although one could be better than the other depending on your specific circumstances. The biggest concern for many people is the cost. Typically, Plexiglass is cheaper than Lexan, but there are reasons for that. Let’s explore those reasons so you can decide which safety glass is right for you.
Factors that contribute to the cost of Plexiglass
Plexiglass, like Lexan, is often used as
safety glass. It is a nice option for those
looking to provide a little protection with the
glass, but still, keep things looking classy.
Plexiglass provides shininess alongside its high
level of impact resistance. It is easy to cut,
can be polished smooth and does not yellow over
time. Plexiglass is also much easier to install
with its clean glue joint and easiness to be
cut.
Despite these great qualities,
Plexiglass has its drawbacks, which contributes
to its overall cost as well. It is super rigid,
and it can crack more easily than Lexan, which
means that while some parts are easier to
install, there is potential for it to crack
during drilling. It is also more likely to chip,
and it softens much sooner than Lexan (Acrylic
softens at 195 degrees Fahrenheit versus
polycarbonate softening at 240 degrees
Fahrenheit).
What makes Lexan an expensive material?
Lexan tends to be more popular when it comes
to needing real strong protection. It has a much
higher level of impact resistance than
Plexiglass does (250 times the impact resistance
of glass compared to Plexiglass’ 17 times).
Lexan is quite sturdy, so you will not have to
worry about it cracking or melting. In fact,
Lexan is made to be somewhat flexible, bending
instead of cracking under pressure.
Nevertheless, Lexan also has its disadvantages.
Despite not cracking easily, it does scratch
more easily than plexiglass. UV rays can yellow
or discolor it over time and its clarity cannot
be restored with a simple polish as it can with
Plexiglass. Also, because of its flexibility, it
is more prone to being dented. While Lexan is
highly resistant to acids and other chemicals,
it does not do well with abrasive cleaners and
surfaces.
Which one is the cheaper material?
As stated earlier, Plexiglass is cheaper than Lexan. That is because of Lexan’s near indestructibility. Its impact resistance is so much higher than Plexiglass and, of course, regular glass, that it can be used for important protection, including bullet-proof, or bullet-resistant, “glass.”
However, its expensiveness can sometimes turn people towards Plexiglass, since it is definitely the cheaper option. Acrylic is also generally more aesthetically pleasing than polycarbonate, which is another reason you might consider Plexiglass over Lexan. Plexiglass has much better clarity and can come in a wide variety of colors, unlike Lexan. It will provide just enough protection for a cheaper price and a better-looking finished product.
Why is Lexan used despite being costly?
You might be wondering why people would still use Lexan if it is so much more expensive than and not quite as pretty as Plexiglass. However, because of its strength as mentioned before, Lexan is used for things like bullet resistant glass. This makes it perfect for anyone who needs solid protection and is more concerned about strength than looks. That protection includes anything from your business’s building to your car windows (race cars often use it) to safety guards attached to helmets for people who work with industrial machinery. Despite its high price, Lexan is worth the money if you are in the market for something that can be almost completely indestructible.
How to buy Plexiglass or Lexan online?
If you know what you want or even if you still are not sure which product would best suit your specific need, so, head on over to the Glass Genius website. The site offers both materials at a lower cost so you can feel more comfortable getting what you want or need. Glass Genius provides a hassle-free online platform where you can talk to several different sellers at once to not only figure out what product is best for you, but also to find the lowest prices that will fit in your budget. At Glass Genius, you can connect with sellers, negotiate with them and make the most successful deal at the lowest cost. If you are in the market for Plexiglass or Lexan, check out Glass Genius today.