Acrylic – How to repair Acrylic if it’s BROKEN?
Acrylic material is utilized everywhere, they are commonly found by brands like Plexiglass, Lucite and Acrylite. Basically they all mean the same thing. Acrylic is made popular to replace glass due to several reasons. For one they are durable, and lightweight, transparency etc that comes along. Hence, they are widely used in different industries fro example toilet sinks, baths, furniture, window, and more. In the era where we can find different applications in acrylic, it is logical in knowing how to repair acrylic, as well as how to protect it in the future. These knowledge would greatly increase the longevity of the acrylic and make the best out of the purchase. With the proper guide, research and handy tools, everyone can make the necessary repairs at home without splurging a load.
Acrylic Sinks and Baths
While many companies and designers are integrating acrylic into their project, acrylic is still prone to scratches and cracks under abuse. To repair scratches on your acrylic, use a sandpaper (preferably dry) on the area in circular motion to smoothen the surface in eliminating the scratch. Then use a polishing compound to restore its beauty.
To repair a cracked acrylic tub, you must first make sure to stabilize the surface so the crack will not get bigger. The best choice is to use instant insulation foam to inject into the cracks, filling all empty spaces and create stronger barrier between the internal and external architecture of the acrylic tub. Then, mix and apply polyester filler to the crack. Leave it to dry. Now use a sandpaper (preferably dry) to smoothen the surface to a uniform level. Lastly, paint the acrylic and polished to regain shine.
Furniture
For most of the acrylic furniture, the sanding method on scratches should apply well. If there are cracks and holes, use supplies from fiberglass repair kit to fill into the cracks, chips and dings. Make use of acrylic paint to achieve a uniform colour of the furniture. Again, let it sit dry, smoothen using sandpapers, and finally a polish to wrap things up.
Protecting Acrylic
We all want to get the best out of our purchase, hence, it is best to protect it as much as possible and make repairs the soonest possible. However, there are a few tips can could possibly delay repairs and greatly increase the lifespan of your acrylic application. For any sort of acrylic furniture it would be as simple as cleaning it regularly with a damp cloth. For added assistance, mix it with a mild detergent and clean it thoroughly with sponge. This would give you some deep cleaning. Note that you should never use ammonia based chemicals to clean your acrylic. These includes window cleaner, floor cleaner and other chemical based clear because they will develop cracks on the surface.
For those that could spare some aesthetic sacrifice, try not to remove the plastic cover that comes with the acrylic furniture when the item arrives to your doorstep. This buy you some time from the external elements that may cause scratches and damages.
If any new acrylic furniture or items arrive with a plastic film covering, leave the plastic cover on for as long as possible. This protects the acrylic from the elements and other causes of scratching and damage.