Guides
Glass vs acrylic: which should you use?
We cut glass, so you might expect us to say glass. Sometimes acrylic is the right answer, and this page says where, as plainly as where glass wins.
SW Glass · updated 22/10/2026
Side by side
The weight row is worked for a 1000 x 600mm panel at 6mm, glass at 2500 kg/m³ and cast acrylic at 1190 kg/m³. For your own size, the glass weight calculator gives the glass figure and acrylic is 48% of it.
| Property | Glass | Acrylic |
|---|---|---|
| Scratch resistance | More scratch-resistant than uncoated acrylic; can still scratch | Needs compatible cleaning; surface coatings vary |
| Weight (this panel) | 9.0kg | 4.3kg (~52% lighter) |
| Impact behaviour | Toughened breaks into small pieces; injury remains possible | Can flex or crack; check the grade and impact classification |
| Heat and appliance use | Use the specified glass and appliance clearances | Check the sheet and appliance limits; do not assume heat suitability |
| Clarity over time | Check coatings, tint and cleaning requirements | UV performance depends on grade; suitable exterior grades are available |
| Rigidity at span | Thickness depends on span, support and load | More flexible; requires its own thickness and support design |
These are comparison points, not a product specification. Material grade, coatings, supports and the intended use can change the choice.
When to consider glass
- A splashback specified for the appliance, with the glass type, backing and clearances confirmed.
- Frequently cleaned surfaces, using compatible products and a clean soft cloth. Glass can still scratch.
- A permanent glazing application with its required optical performance and safety classification.
- Shelves and table tops with a suitable thickness, support arrangement and load assessment.
- Safety glazing: toughened and laminated glass can be classified under BS EN 12600. Check the classification the location needs.
When to consider acrylic
- Weight-critical panels: acrylic is a little under half the weight of glass for the same size.
- An impact-sensitive application where the particular grade meets the required classification. Acrylic can still break.
- Curved or formed shapes made by a fabricator working to the sheet manufacturer's instructions.
- A fabricated panel where the specified grade, tools, edge work and expansion allowances suit the job.
- Signage or displays, with an exterior grade where weather and sunlight exposure require it.
Check the appliance before choosing a splashback
Acrylic is lighter, but that does not make it suitable behind a hob. Check the appliance maker’s instructions and minimum distances, and the sheet maker’s heat limits. The adhesive and the wall are part of the job too. Every splashback we make is 6mm toughened glass, and that is what our splashback cost tool prices; it is an estimate, and the configurator gives the live price for your exact piece.
A weight comparison is not a shelf design
The weight row compares the same size and thickness. Glass is far stiffer than cast acrylic (about 70 GPa against about 3 GPa), so an acrylic shelf needs to be thicker or more closely supported for the same sag, which eats into its weight advantage. Tell us the load and the supports when you ask for advice. The shelf load calculator shows a glass estimate and its assumptions; it does not approve an acrylic substitute.
Check a replacement panel in order
- Identify its use, exposure, size and the people who could come into contact with it.
- Record the frame, supports, fixings and any holes. A matching outline does not mean the new panel fits the fixings.
- Confirm the material grade, thickness, safety evidence and cleaning instructions with the supplier.
- Check the finished weight and access route before arranging delivery or fitting.
Replacing a picture-frame cover and replacing a door panel are different jobs, even at the same size: glass in a door is a safety glazing location. Use the safety glazing guide to identify what needs checking, and the opening and glass size guide to label your measurements.
Decided on glass? Price your panel in the glass price calculator. We do not sell acrylic, and we would rather say so than cut you the wrong material.