Have you ever seen one of those nice kitchen splashbacks or crystal-clear display cases? That’s most likely acrylic. It’s one of those products that just gets on with improving life day in, day out – it’s practical, it looks nice, and can be adapted to do loads of different things. So, what is acrylic material, and why is it now so widely used in UK homes and businesses? Let’s discover.
What Is Acrylic Material?
Essentially, acrylic is a type of plastic that feels and performs much like glass but is more flexible. The scientific name is polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), but don’t let that worry you. It is simply a clear plastic that frequently takes the place of glass because it’s lighter and won’t break as readily.
What Is Acrylic Plastic?
Acrylic plastic is simply another term for it. In a matter of years, other plastics will lose their clarity and lustre, but acrylic will remain the lightest and brightest, even in the sun. It is the reason for its wide applications in windows, screens, signage, and even domestic use as backdrops and accents.
What is Acrylic Made Of?
How acrylic is produced is really cool. They are made by converting liquid methyl methacrylate into solid sheets. This creates the acrylic strong, clear, and flexible.
Once they have the acrylic, they can cut, mould, and paint it however they wish. The best part is that these coloured acrylic sheets can be made to look like glass, marble, or metal, yet are not so heavy or breakable.
Acrylic Properties and Uses
Acrylic has a few very special things working in its favour:
- Transparent: It allows more light through than glass, around 92%. That is the reason why it is bright and clear.
- Tough: It is 10 times stronger than glass, so it is tough to break.
- Lightweight: It weighs half of what glass does, hence it is easy to carry.
- Weatherproof: It will not discolour or distort in sunlight or rain, or change of temperature.
- Easy to Cut: Acrylic sheets are easy to cut, drill, and bend with standard tools, and they’re easy to work with!
- Easy to Clean: You can just use soap and a soft cloth.
Due to all this, acrylic is utilised for quite a lot of things – from furniture to components for cars, fish tanks, and artwork. But one modern use that has gained popularity, especially in British homes, is acrylic splashbacks.
Why Acrylic Splashbacks Are Taking Over Kitchens and Bathrooms?
Not long ago, we were all using tiles in kitchens and bathrooms. By contrast, these days acrylic splashbacks have shifted the whole decorative aspect and people’s taste.
1. Kitchen Splashbacks
The kitchen is where functionality meets fashion. Acrylic splashbacks for kitchens are non-stick and ultra-clean – no nasty recesses for dirt to accumulate, no fungi, or any kind of problem. They are heat-resistant and very easy to clean; besides, they come in a wide variety of colours, from soft and earthy to loud and shiny.
Just imagine having a charcoal splashback or red gloss acrylic splashbackin your kitchen – elegant and dramatic, yet not too overwhelming. Acrylic can easily be cut around plugs and corners, unlike glass, which makes it perfect for customising kitchens.
2. Bathroom Splashbacks
Every bathroom needs an area that can withstand both steam and water. This is best done withacrylic splashbacks for bathrooms. The acrylic splashbacks provide a very close, snug, waterproof wall that won’t crack or peel like wallpaper or paint.
The glossy finish creates a visual effect of a larger room, as light bounces around. And you can instantly match or combine colours with your bathroom using coloured acrylic sheets. From pale blue to reflective black, there’s an acrylic for everyone.
Why People Love Coloured Acrylic Sheets
The great versatility of coloured acrylic sheets makes them lovable to designers and DIY enthusiasts. You can use them on furniture, shelves, signs, and dividers, as well as splashbacks.
And they are a cheap way of adding colour and texture to your home. To get the desired look, you can select solid, frosted or mirrored finishes. This colour will last for years to come, even in sunny rooms, which is perfect in British homes.
Glossy Splashbacks: A Requirement for Contemporary Homes
The gloss acrylic splashbacks are a real statement item. The shiny finishing makes the kitchens and bathrooms look larger and brighter.
They are sold in all colours you can think of – not only in ordinary whites and greys, but also in showy colours such as green or blue. You can easily fit them in to achieve an upscale look without straining the wallet.
The other perk? They are very easy to maintain. Just soap and water are enough to get rid of the grease and splashes.
Comparing Acrylic to Other Materials
Acrylic is usually compared to glass, tiles, or steel, but it has advantages of its own.
- Compared to Glass: It weighs less, it is more secure and easier to use. And it doesn’t shatter.
- Compared to Tiles: No grout, no dirt or mould.
- Compared to Steel: Acrylic brings colour and warmth, whereas steel can be a little chilly.
For the average UK homeowner, acrylic is a clever option since it’s good-looking, functional, and won’t break the bank.
Looking After Acrylic
Acrylic is not a high-maintenance material, but a little care will make sure that it looks good for years to come:
- Use a soft cloth and soapy water for cleaning.
- Refrain from using any strong chemicals or abrasives, as they can scratch the surface.
- In the event that scratches do occur, you can often eliminate them by using a soft cloth and an acrylic polisher.
Your acrylic will look great for years if you care for it properly.
Is Acrylic Eco-Friendly?
More and more homeowners are taking the environment into account, and acrylic is getting better in this area. A major portion of acrylic sheets is now recyclable, and a few others are made from recycled materials. They are also durable and low-maintenance, so you will not be compelled to change them frequently. This makes them a safe alternative to the planet.
To Wrap It Up
From shop windows to kitchen walls, acrylic is a great material. It’s good-looking, useful, and suitable for buildings. If you’re after acrylic splashbacks for kitchens, cool acrylic splashbacks for bathrooms, or strong-coloured acrylic sheets for cool stuff at home, it’s a great choice.
If you wish to transform your house with quality-made-to-measure acrylic products, look no further than Perfect Splashbacks – the specialist destination for durable, fantastic, and value-for-money acrylic designs across the UK.
