The Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Plastic Sheets
In the versatile world of plastic sheets, there is not just one material suitable for all projects. At Sheet Plastics, our panels are sourced from the most popular chemical compounds to form a multitude of plastic sheets for any project.
In this article, we will discuss the many advantages and disadvantages of different plastic sheets, and their usage across different applications.
Let’s dive into our diverse range of products, shall we?
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Plastic Sheets
Polycarbonate Plastic Sheets
This material is one of the most popular options for plastic sheets. It’s a great all-rounder sheet suitable for multiple applications, making it easy to use if you have leftovers. However, polycarbonate plastic sheets are most commonly used for secondary glazing due to their high impact resistance and transparency.
Advantages | Disadvantages | Application |
High impact resistance |
Prone to scratching without proper maintenance |
Secondary glazing |
Sound insulation |
Yellows due to sunlight |
Roofing |
Lightweight |
Higher cost |
Garden shed windows |
Electrical insulation |
Not as chemically resistant |
Canopies |
Weather resistance |
More prone to damage |
Signage |
HIPS Plastic Sheets
We’re all aware of the protective layer that keeps our parcel safe during transit, but this material has another purpose you may not know. HIPS plastic sheets are incredibly lightweight and versatile, despite their own fragile state. They are commonly used to shape and protect mirrors and windows, but what else do they have to offer?
Advantages | Disadvantages | Application |
Impact resistance | Brittle | Insulation |
Lightweight | Prone to scratching without proper maintenance | Packaging |
Versatile | Limited high-temperature applications | Model making |
Ease of fabrication | Poor UV resistance | Signage |
Cost-effective | Difficult to recycle | Arts and crafts |
Polypropylene Sheets
You may recognise this material as the sturdy box holding your folders or even being the folder itself. Polypropylene sheets are extremely durable despite their flexibility. While they are most commonly used in packaging, they are also used in automotive components due to their chemical resistance.
Advantages | Disadvantages | Application |
Chemical resistance |
Yellows due to sunlight |
Screen printing |
Lightweight |
Lower durability |
Sublimation printing |
Moisture resistance |
Requires extra adhesives |
Packaging |
Fatigue resistance |
Limited high-temperature applications |
Manufacturing boxes |
Cost-effective |
Not as stiff |
Stationery and binders |
PETG Sheets (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
Highly durable and tough, PETG sheets, also known as polyethylene terephthalate glycol, have excellent transparency making them suitable for a variety of applications. You have likely seen these plastic sheets all around you in shopping centres, restaurants, and industry settings, and these benefits will tell you why.
Advantages | Disadvantages | Application |
Durability |
Prone to scratching without proper maintenance |
Secondary glazing |
Impact resistance |
Higher cost |
Sneeze screens |
Recyclable |
Limited high-temperature applications |
Splashbacks |
UV resistance |
Yellows over time |
Displays |
Chemical resistance |
Not as resistant in certain environmental conditions |
Machine Guard |
Foam PVC Sheets
Sometimes you just want a block-colour plastic sheet that still protects you from other people but offers more privacy. Commonly seen in commercial settings, foam PVC sheets thrive in colder environments, keeping you warm during low temperatures. They are also non-porous, deterring harmful bacteria from entering the material and reaching you.
Advantages | Disadvantages | Application |
Chemical resistance |
Not as resistant in certain environmental conditions |
Exhibitions |
Lightweight |
Releases toxic gases if burned |
Cladding |
Thermal insulation |
Limited high-temperature applications |
Splashbacks |
Ease of fabrication |
Not as stiff |
Printing |
Moisture resistance |
Difficult to recycle |
Partitioning |
Acetal Sheets
There is no stronger, stiffer sheet than acetal. This highly durable material is extremely versatile, used in the majority of industrial applications. They also flourish in colder climates while still keeping that insulation in low temperatures. Overall, acetal sheets are favoured in the engineering industry for their many benefits.
Advantages | Disadvantages | Application |
Chemical resistance |
Sensitive to some acidic conditions |
Automotive Industry |
Durability |
Degradation in some hot water conditions |
Textile Industry |
Stiffness |
Limited high-temperature applications |
Mechanical and medical engineering |
Electrical insulation |
Not as resistant to certain solvents |
Electrical industry |
Low-friction |
Difficult to recycle |
Food processing Industry |
Aluminium Sheets
If you are looking for a long-lasting material that protects your build, aluminium sheets are for you. They are practically indestructible against harsh weather conditions and shun corrosion for easy maintenance. While there are some concerns about the manufacturing process, you can recycle this form of aluminium.
Advantages | Disadvantages | Application |
Durability |
Higher cost |
Secondary glazing |
Lightweight |
Conducts heat and electricity |
Roofing |
Corrosion resistance |
Releases more carbon emissions |
Cladding |
Recyclable |
Deters and disrupts wildlife during mining process |
Signage |
Weather resistance |
Difficult fabrication |
Suspended Ceiling |
Durable Plastic Sheets Available at Sheet Plastics
We hope this guide gives you a little insight into why we supply the materials we do, and how each product can help with your specific needs. We offer a variety of colours, textures, and finishes if clear panels aren’t for you.
Are you in the process of a DIY project and require some plastic sheets? Whether you want clear polycarbonate plastic sheets for your swimming pool or thermal-efficient polystyrene plastic sheets for your walls, we have a product for you.
Contact our expert team today for a completely bespoke process. Simply let us know what your requirements are or tell us about your project if you’re not sure what you need. Alternatively, we encourage you to look at our samples page for some inspiration.