Frames add an additional touch to your photos or artwork as they add style to the entire space while protecting the cherished memories forever. Frames come in glass and acrylic form which makes it harder to frame the photo or piece of art fully. Each frame has its benefits and disadvantages which means that your decision is based on your personal preferences and needs.
This guide outlines the major differences between acrylic frames and glass frames so you are able to make the right choice for your home or office in terms of maintenance, style, cost and durability.
What Are Acrylic Frames and Glass Frames?
Before comparison, the features defining acrylic and glass frames should be put together:
Acrylic Frames
Acrylic frames, or frames used for photos and wall art, are constructed out of light weight plastic, commonly known as acrylic or plexiglass, which is glass like in appearance but not as delicate as it. These frames are preferred for modern photo displays, wall art and memorabilia due to their durability as well as sleek and clear look.
- Modern homes with minimalist designs.
- Children’s rooms.
- Kids bedrooms.
Glass picture frames.
Glass picture frames are a timeless classic and one of the most popular choices. As glass frames are made from actual glass, their unrivaled beauty makes the case for their use. For those preferring more formal or traditional decor, as well as those who want to display heirloom photos, glass frames are the ideal choice.
- Vintage or traditional decor.
- Formal office spaces and art galleries.
Side-by-side comparison of durability.
When choosing a picture frame, it’s common to consider what is the most durable, particularly when deciding how to protect treasured artwork or photos.
Acrylic frames.
Acrylic frames are perfect for family households because they are virtually shatter-proof; no need to worry having children or animals bursting through your doors as they don’t leave behind dangerous sharp edges based fragments.
Acrylic picture frames are not only tough but also moisture resistant making them fantastic to use in places like kitchens and bathrooms. The higher quality products even provide UV protection as well, stopping sunlight from drying out and damaging photos, so they are well protected from fading.
Frames of Glass
- Scratch Resistant: Since glass is naturally more scratch resistant, it is able to preserve its surface clarity over the years.
- Fragility: Conversely, glass can shatter upon impact, making it hazardous and requiring frequent replacements in certain locations.
Winner: When it comes to safety and weather exposure, acrylic frames are the absolute winners as they are much more durable.
Style and Aesthetic Appeal
The style of a frame is one of the most important factors that can complement or destroy your decor, so selecting one that matches your tastes is essential.
Acrylic Frames
- Modern and Sleek: Acrylic frames shaed the modern sleek design because they are clean and simply minimalist. It also matches well with contemporary and Scandinavian design schemes.
- Custom Finishes: They also have several finishes such as clear, frosted, and colored which allow for greater customization.
Glass Frames
- Classic and Timeless: Glass frames have a more elegant charm that fits well with the formal traditional and vintage decor. The glass surface also elevates the refinement of any formal interior.
Winner: Acrylic frames work best for modern interiors while glass frames complement classic or vintage designs.
Weight and Convenience
The material’s weight is of utmost importance when considering large frames or wall mounts.
Acrylic Frames
- Lightweight: Since acrylic is considerably less dense than glass, it is much easier to transport, hang, and display.
- Shipping-Friendly: Acrylic is less likel to be damaged during shipping compared to glass, which is much more practical for online orders.
Glass Frames
- Heavyweight: While the weight of glass adds a level of stability, it also makes installation more difficult, particularly with oversized frames.
- Fragile: Glass frames, in addition to being heavy, also require extra care during transportation and installation to avoid breakage.
Winner: For larger displays, acrylic frames win for their weight and convenience.
Cost Efficiency
Keeping within budget isn’t always a necessity, but it is a consideration that influencer decisions.
Acrylic Frames
- Affordable: Acrylic frames are much cheaper than high-quality glass frames.
- Long-Term Value: Their durability means lower replacement costs contributing to savings over time.
Glass Frames
- Price Variability: Glass frames can be bought for cheap, but thicker and higher quality glass can be pretty expensive.
- Replacement Costs: Their fragility can lead to frequent replacements, thereby increasing the overall costs.
Winner: Because of the durability and affordability, acrylic frames win this round.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Proper maintenance ensures your frames are clean and scratch free, allowing them to stay looking their best for years.
Acrylic Frames
- Scratching: To avoid scratches while cleaning acrylic frames, non-abrasive cleaners and microfiber cloths should be used.
- Easy to Maintain UV Protection: These frames have easy-to-maintain specialized coatings that provide adequate resistance to UV rays.
Glass Frames
- Scratch Resistance: Glass frames are less prone to scratches making them easier to clean.
- Smudges: Glass frames have their own problems as smudges and fingerprints tend to be much more visible making these frames seem low maintenance.
Winner: Care and maintenance of glass frames is easy, however, acrylic frames only require a little more attention.
Environmental Considerations
Maintaining sustainability is essential for people who are more environmentally conscious when choosing which frames to buy.
Acrylic Frames
- Recyclable: Poorly disposed of high quality acrylic frames make for a greener choice for some people.
- Durability Reduces Waste: Not having to replace a product as frequently reduces the amount of waste produced.
Glass Frames
- Natural Material: Recyclable glass is a much more preferred material when considering the environment which makes glass frames a great option.
- High Production Impact: The production process of making glass requires a heavy amount of energy resulting in a larger carbon footprint.
Winner: In the long run, glass frames win in terms of eco-friendliness but to keep them in circulation, acrylic frames benefit from their durability.
Tips to Choose a Suitable Frame
Here is a checklist to on deciding whether to go for glass frames or acrylic frames:
1. Are you in the market for something durable yet lightweight?
Go for acrylic frames.
2. Do you appreciate minimalist modern design?
Choose acrylic frames.
3. Are you looking for something timeless or traditional?
Choose glass frames.
4. Is scratch resistance something you are after?
You may need glass frames.
5. Do you have children or pets, or trying to design a room that gets a lot of foot traffic?
In these cases, acrylic frames are more durable and safer.
Tailor Choose Your Frame
Everyone has areas where they prefer to save when it comes to spending, and glass or acrylic frames can cover durability, style, and cost effectively. Glass frames suit modern spaces and higher foot traffic areas while acrylic frames add style and elegance to any traditional decoration set up.
Browse our selection of glass and acrylic frames and find the perfect pair that will style and practical needs. Be bold in styling your home!
