When it comes to framing cherished photographs or artwork, the choice of materials plays a vital role in preserving and enhancing the beauty of the piece. While traditional glass has been widely used for picture frames, acrylic, also known as plexiglass, has gained popularity as a superior alternative. In this article, we will explore the reasons why acrylic/plexiglass is a preferred choice over regular glass for picture frames, highlighting the numerous benefits it offers.
Durability and Impact Resistance:
Acrylic is renowned for its exceptional durability and impact resistance, making it highly suitable for protecting valuable artwork. Unlike glass, which can shatter upon impact, acrylic is considerably more robust and less prone to breakage. It can withstand accidental knocks, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas or when displaying fragile pieces.
Lightweight and Easy Handling:
Another advantage of acrylic is its lightweight nature. It is significantly lighter than glass, making it easier to handle and hang on walls. This attribute also makes it an excellent option for larger picture frames, as it reduces the overall weight and strain on the hanging mechanism.
Clarity and Transparency:
Acrylic offers remarkable optical clarity, allowing the artwork to be displayed without any visual distortions. Its transparency is often comparable to that of glass, ensuring the true colors and details of the picture are accurately showcased. This crystal-clear quality of acrylic enhances the overall aesthetic appeal and brings out the best in your framed artwork.
UV Protection:
One of the most significant advantages of using acrylic for picture frames is its excellent UV resistance. Unlike glass, which allows harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays to pass through and fade artwork over time, acrylic can provide up to 99% UV protection. This UV resistance significantly reduces the risk of color fading, yellowing, or damage caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Shatterproof and Safer:
Acrylic is known for being shatterproof, unlike regular glass. In the event of an accidental impact or mishap, acrylic is less likely to break into sharp shards that can cause injury. This feature makes it an ideal choice for public spaces, homes with children or pets, and places where safety is a primary concern.
Versatility:
Acrylic is a highly versatile material that offers flexibility in framing design and customization. It can be easily cut, shaped, and molded into various sizes and styles, allowing for unique framing options. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary look, acrylic can accommodate a wide range of design preferences, ensuring your framed artwork stands out.
Ease of Maintenance:
Maintaining acrylic picture frames is relatively straightforward. They can be cleaned using mild soap, water, and a soft cloth, without the risk of scratching the surface. Acrylic is also resistant to chemical corrosion, making it more durable and long-lasting compared to glass, which can be sensitive to certain cleaning solutions.
When it comes to framing precious artwork, photographs, or memorabilia, opting for acrylic/plexiglass picture frames offers numerous benefits over traditional glass. The superior durability, impact resistance, UV protection, lightweight nature, and clarity make acrylic a popular choice among artists, photographers, and art enthusiasts. Additionally, the shatterproof and versatile nature of acrylic, coupled with its easy maintenance, make it an excellent long-term investment for preserving and showcasing your cherished pieces. So, next time you consider framing a picture, remember the advantages that acrylic/plexiglass can bring to your display
