Plexiglas is an acrylic plastic that starts out as a liquid and then forms into a strong plastic. Due to its durability, flexibility, and sustainability, acrylic is one of the best alternatives to glass. Over the years, the use of high-quality acrylic has expanded into several applications. Originally used to make windows for submarines and automobiles, acrylic sheet now has a variety of alternative uses (including architecture, engineering and even photography). It is versatile and cost-effective, making it a practical alternative to glass.

Once you have selected acrylic, arrange for it to be cut to the desired size and securely delivered, and you can fix your material in place. Depending on your project, you may choose to use an adhesive or drill holes and use a fixing device to complete this operation.

If you already know where you want to place the drill holes, you can arrange for us to do this for you - just send us the dimensions of the location you want when you place your order. However, you may prefer to drill the holes yourself after you receive the acrylic so that you can change your existing plans or add additional holes if needed. If you choose to drill the holes in the acrylic ready to be fixed, we have put together some simple steps.

How to drill holes in acrylic?

Step 1

Place your acrylic sheet on a fully supported flat surface that will allow your drill bit to touch once it passes through your material (e.g. a piece of wood). Leave any protective film on the acrylic to prevent it from being damaged as you work. If you choose to clamp the material in place, do so carefully and place something between the acrylic and the clamp to further protect it.

Step 2

Carefully measure where you want the hole to be located. If the hole is to be along the edge of the sheet, the distance between the hole and the edge should be twice the thickness of the acrylic to keep it strong and stable. For example, if the acrylic is 5 mm thick, the distance to the edge where you want to drill the hole is 10 mm.

Step 3

You can use a standard steel drill to create the holes. If the drill bit is new, place it slightly on a piece of scrap wood so that the sharpness does not tear the acrylic.

Step 4

Set the drill bit to a medium position and hold it perpendicular to the acrylic. Gently press the drill bit into the mark you are measuring, this should make it simple to get the tool through the material. Let the drill bit slide into the support material you placed underneath and gently bring it back into the hole until you are clear, do not close it.

Step 5

Make sure to align the hole in the acrylic with the hole you planned for the wall by first checking that the wall hole will not go through pipes or cables. Align the acrylic with the wall holes and then secure it in place with screws.

Remember to proceed slowly and steadily, drilling only when you are sure the hole will be in the correct position. Do not force your drill bit through the acrylic as this may cause it to crack or break, if it gets stuck, gently pullback in the reverse setting.

Advantages of acrylic sheets

Reusable

Many restaurants prefer to use acrylic dinnerware and glassware because they are durable, shatterproof, and easy to clean.

UV resistant

Being flexible and easy to mold into any shape, acrylic is perfect for a variety of products. They are ideal for outdoor use because they are heat resistant up to 160 degrees Celsius.

Available in a variety of colors

Acrylic sheets are available in a wide range of colors and designs. Depending on the purpose for which you are using the material, you can choose from colored sheets or clear acrylic sheets. These sheets are available in a variety of styles, including frosted acrylic, fluorescent acrylic, and mirror acrylic.

Environmentally friendly

Because it is synthetic, acrylic (i.e., Plexiglas) is easily reusable. Since you can make acrylic sheets into other things (panels, acrylic table tops, secondary glass, or shelves) in a variety of ways, this is an environmentally friendly option.

Dishwasher safe

Tableware and glassware made from Plexiglas sheets are designed to withstand the heat of commercial dishwashers.

Cost-effective

Synthetically manufactured glass-look acrylics are cheaper to produce and purchase, so they are an excellent alternative to glass.