How To Attach Plexiglass to Wood?

Plexiglass is a petroleum-based product often used as an alternative to glass due to its shatter-resistant feature.

It is also a sturdy acrylic glass used in cupboard doors and window panels.

But how do you attach plexiglass to wood?

In this article, you will learn two ways to attach plexiglass to wood safely.

2 Ways To Attach Plexiglass to Wood

Using plexiglass on your wood project over glass offers many advantages.

Apart from being shatter-resistant, plexiglass is also heat-resistant and UV-resistant. Also, plexiglass is more straightforward to fabricate than glass and more flexible to work with.

One of the best features of working with plexiglass, as opposed to glass, is that you can easily drill without shattering and glue it to form a strong bond.

If you are thinking of a way to attach plexiglass to wood, below is a step-by-step guide:

1. Using Screws

Screwing plexiglass down is a traditional method of attaching things to wood.

This method secures the plexiglass to the wood firmly in the most reliable way. However, it is worth noting that this method is more complicated.

There are a lot of cautions you have to take when using this method so the plexiglass doesn’t crack.

Also, you will need a drill and a drill bit to drill a dot in the plexiglass at least 1 inch away from the edge.

Way To Use Screws To Attach Plexiglass to Wood

1. Place the plexiglass on the wood you want to attach it to, and at a 1-inch point away from the edge, mark dots on the glass where the screws will go in.
2. Get a power drill with a one-quarter drill bit.
3. Place the plexiglass on a flat surface, and drill a dot on the plexiglass.
4. Don’t pause or break the drilling process; keep drilling until the bit goes through the plexiglass.
5. Place the plexiglass on the wood, and drive the screws into the wood to hold it.

2. Using Adhesive

Adhesives are another option you can use to fasten plexiglass to wood.

This option is way safer as it eliminates the risk of cracking the plexiglass while installing it.

Moreover, this method of attaching plexiglass to wood is simple and fast. The only challenge with using adhesive is that it is unreliable as it may fail.

Under compressive force, the adhesive may pull out. Also, with a wide selection of adhesives you can use, finding the ideal adhesive for the project can be daunting.

Ways To Use Adhesive To Attach Plexiglass to Wood

1. Sand the wood to remove any old sealant or adhesive.
2. Apply a thin bonding agent layer to the wood and the plexiglass.
3. Place the plexiglass on the wood and ensure they are correctly aligned.
4. Use a blade to trim off the excess bonding agent from around the edges of the plexiglass.
5. Use a clean rag to wipe the edges to get a clean surface.
6. Set the plexiglass aside in a cool, dry place for at least 24 hours to dry properly before using your project.

How To Cut Plexiglass?

Depending on what is available when working with it, you can use several tools to cut plexiglass.

A table saw is one of the best options, as most DIY enthusiasts have one.

If you find using a table saw challenging, you can use a circular or jigsaw.

In either case, ensure the blade of the saw you use is sharp to keep the cuts clean.

Below are a few tips to keep in mind when cutting plexiglass:

1. Use a table saw to cut plexiglass, as they give the cleanest cuts.
2. Always wear protective equipment like eye protection and gloves when cutting plexiglass.
3. Always use blades specifically designed for cutting plexiglass, as regular saw blades will quickly become dull and cause the plexiglass to crack.

Conclusion

Considering traditional glass is rigid, heavier, and brittle, you may worry when working with plexiglass. But plexiglass is more durable and resistant to shattering than regular glass.

So, relax and cut it to the right size, drill holes through it, and feel free to use it as you see fit for your project.