Frustrated with how easy your glass windows can shatter and break? Want an ulterior and do-it-yourself option? Plexiglass can give you the durability, ease, and low maintenance for window replacement, installation, and the care you are looking for.

Despite a higher cost, investing in plexiglass will give you better long-term (overall) results than using standard glass installation for your windows. This is especially true for large windows with larger frames. And that's just one of the many benefits. Plexiglass is also better than glass when considering window replacement and installation; especially for those not professionally skilled to do so. We will further elaborate on some of these benefits, the installation process, and where you can get plexiglass for sale.

Why is Plexiglass a better alternative than glass for window replacement?

It is not only stronger but also more widely available, shatter-resistant (allowing 90% of light to pass through), and takes a longer period of time to erode than glass. It consists of clear acrylic that is usually made from a petroleum or plastic-like substance. Whereas glass is made from natural and raw materials like sand, limestone and soda ash. These elements are melted at very high temperatures resulting in the finished product (i.e. glass).

Other benefits of using plexiglass are dependent on the size, its thickness, and other features. These features include UV-cut, clarity, and glare-reduction. It can withstand harsh weather conditions and is easy to cut and manipulate; making it easy for novice house repairman and handyman. Even with wear and tear over-time and discoloration, typically of a yellowing hue, the long-term benefits involve less maintenance and overall replacement costs.

Plexiglass is also easier for a newbie/beginner handy worker or those less skilled, or around the home, to handle than glass.

Like, previously mentioned, choosing the right thickness of plexiglass for your window is dependent on various factors. For example, the size and area of where the window is located. While homes typically need less thickness because of smaller spacing, that is not normally the case for commercial buildings. You'll find that for commercial spaces you need greater thickness for greater sizes and space for installation.

A plexiglass' thickness can range as "1/8″, "3/16″, "1/4″, "3/8″, "1/2″, "3/4″, to 1″.

Plexiglass window installation process

In order to properly replace glass with plexiglass, it is important to use the right tools, getting precise measurements, and a clean finish.

You will need a hammer, razor knife and powered cutting tools, measuring tape, T-square, a screwdriver, putty knife, grit sandpaper, eyewear to protect your eyes, and gloves to protect from splinters and cuts.

You could also use silicone (putty for molding) and a silicone applicator.

  • Assuming the glass window has already been removed, using the flat blade of your screwdriver, go along the seams of the window and tap the handle of the screwdriver with a hammer to get under the trim that holds together the window pane.
  • Pull apart the trim by twisting the handle of the screwdriver as you move along the seam. Continue until you've removed the trim on all four sides of the window.
  • Remove the putty (molding) and caulk inside the frame while cleaning along with  the trim with the blade of the screwdriver
  • Use your measuring tape to measure the height and width of the window
  • Place the plexiglass on a work surface that is flat and stable.
  • Markdown these measurements on your sheet of plexiglass
  • Remember that precision is key so the measures you've jotted down must match the area where you'll replace the glass and install the new sheet
  • Cut along the edges, where you've measured, removing the excess parts lines of where you have.
  • Use your grit sandpaper to smooth the uneven edges along the perimeter of the plexiglass. This will also allow for precision in measurement for your installation
  • Placed the newly cut plexiglass in the window to ensure fit
  • Use new molding/putty along the inside of the window frame
  • Make sure to coat the entire inner frame
  • Placing the bottom in first, push the plexiglass in the frame and down on the molding
  • Then you'll want to cover the perimeter (all four sides) of the plexiglass with additional molding
  • Let the mold set and dry
  • While holding each piece of trim in place around the window, drill a (4D) nail through each hold to lock in the plexiglass in place
  • Discard and scrape away at excess mold using your putty knife to finish the installation

Where to Buy Premium Quality Plexiglass Sheets

Ready to replace your glass windows with a custom plexiglass sheet especially designed for your windows? Glass Genius can provide you with lowes plexiglass sheets and panels at affordable pricing.

Glass Genius is not just an e-commerce platform but it is the first marketplace, in the world, where anyone can buy any type of glass product. Explore further on our webpage to view what kind of plexiglass sheets are for sale to make a successful purchase.

Glass Genius is the Marketplace for local glass companies, contractors, interior designers, and consumers for buying and selling glass and mirror products online quickly and easily.