How to Attach Plexiglass?

Plexiglass can be found in a variety of applications. Not only in industry and trade is the PMMA plastic prevalent. Even in home improvement, Plexiglass enjoys high popularity. Depending on the application, however, the Plexiglass must also be attached. You can also rely on different techniques. In the following article, we show you numerous possibilities on how to attach Plexiglass.

Numerous application options for Plexiglass

Plexiglass is transparent, semi-transparent, and non-transparent. In particular, because of the excellent UV protection, it is also used much outdoors. In addition to roofing and as a window for garden sheds and similar buildings, it is as popular as a sign or advertisement.

But also indoors, there are numerous application examples. This allows Plexiglass illuminate and direct or indirect lighting. Stunning effects can achieve it. Whether on walls, ceilings, furnishings – the possibilities are enormous. Also, in the hobby, Plexiglass finds numerous applications. For example, in aquariums, terrariums, or case modding computers.

In most cases, the Plexiglass but still needs to be attached

But all these possibilities are one thing in common: somehow the Plexiglass must also be connected. There are various options available from very simple to complex:

• screws (for example, plates, signs, etc.)
• glue (in combination with other materials or to build complex Plexiglass objects)
• clamp (for example on roofs, in order not to have to drill the Plexiglass)
• attach indirectly via frames or pull-in rubbers (buildings, stands, signs)

Screws of Plexiglass

The screws are relatively simple. First, you have to drill the Plexiglass. Depending on the application and the requirements of the screw connection, you will need spacers and dowels (wall and ceiling mounting) in addition to the screws.

You can also screw Plexiglass directly onto other materials. When using Plexiglass, however, pay attention to other objects and materials, especially in the case of large-area Plexiglass objects, to ensure that they are uniform.

If you want to screw in numerous screws in the edge area, always work from the inside to the outside to avoid tension. Also, you must consider the properties of the materials to which you want to screw Plexiglass (risk of mold, rear ventilation, different thermal properties, etc.).

Glue Plexiglass

The bonding of Plexiglass is one of the most common methods of attachment. But again, you have to consider the unique requirements of your project. When aquarium and terrarium, for example, you need to use silicone, which does not harm the animals later by secretions or fumes.

Other projects are about gluing Plexiglass as invisibly as possible. In other jobs, a joint must be filled, or the splice must withstand high forces. Accordingly, different products are offered:

• liquid acrylic (not other than Plexiglass in liquid form with adhesive properties)
• unique silicone adhesive that feeds in joints
• various superglue for massive bonding

However, especially with adhesive products that were not specially made for Plexiglass, please note that they do not cause reactions with the Plexiglass. For this purpose, the adhesive must be suitable for an acrylic glass, PMMA plastics or thermoplastics (all names for Plexiglass).

Clamp the plexiglass

Again, there are different approaches. For example, there are staples with a bore for roof panels made of fiber cement (corrugated cement sheets, Eternit, or Berlin slabs). They are pushed onto the front of the plate and then screwed to the front with an underlying batten or fairing.

But you can also clamp Plexiglass in a frame by, for example, screwing a metal frame that serves as a cover frame and simply inserts the Plexiglass plate underneath it before screwing.

Indirect fortifications of Plexiglass

These are certainly the most expensive mounting options. For example, you can put Plexiglass in a frame (like a composite window or a gem in a gold frame). The structure can then be equipped with mounting options (hooks, screw holes, adhesive strips, etc.).

Similarly, the principle of an Einziehgummis also works. Modern car windows are also glued today. Previously, however, you were stuck in a rubber frame, the outside and inside slit lengthwise. The inner slot is pushed into the Plexiglass. On the outside, pull in a leash (clothesline with plastic coating) that overlaps generously.

Then press the Plexiglass disk with the rubber to your wall opening (thin metal frame, for example). Pulling on the leash, remove the inner side of the externally slotted rubber inward over the metal frame. You can still lubricate the rubber with assembly paste so that it slides better over the frame.