Plexiglass vs. Regular Glass: Which Is Better for Preserving Your Artwork?

Dena Sherman
Nov 19
3 min read

When you invest in framing a piece of art, whether it's a treasured family photo, a new print, or original artwork, you’re doing more than choosing a frame. You’re choosing how that piece will look and last for years to come. One of the most important decisions in that process is selecting the right glazing (glass) material. The two most common choices, plexiglass and regular glass, each offer unique benefits, and understanding those differences can help ensure your artwork stays vibrant and protected.

Let’s break down what you need to know.

Why Your Glazing Choice Matters

The glazing you choose plays a major role in protecting artwork from dust, scratches, and most importantly harmful UV rays. These rays, whether from sunlight or indoor lighting, can slowly and permanently affect the look and longevity of your piece.

That’s why selecting the right material isn't just a technical choice it’s part of protecting the story and emotion your artwork carries.

Plexiglass: Lightweight Protection With Modern Benefits

Plexiglass, also known as acrylic, has become a favorite for many framers and art collectors and for good reason.

Exceptional clarity: High-quality plexiglass offers crisp visibility without distortion.
Lightweight: It’s significantly lighter than glass, making it ideal for large frames or installations on weaker walls.
Durability: Unlike glass, plexiglass is shatter-resistant. In homes with kids, pets, or high foot traffic, this is a major advantage.

If preserving vibrancy and avoiding breakage are top concerns, plexiglass is often the safer, smarter choice.

Regular Glass: Classic Clarity With Some Trade-Offs

Traditional glass is still widely used in custom framing because of its timeless clarity and smooth finish. But it does come with a few considerations:

Natural clarity with slight tint: Standard glass can show a faint greenish tint, sometimes affecting color accuracy.
Heavier weight: This can require more robust hanging hardware, especially for large frames.
Fragility: Glass is prone to shattering, which can be risky in busy environments.

For those who prefer the feel and finish of traditional framing, upgrading to UV coated glass is highly recommended.

How UV Rays Affect Artwork

UV rays are one of the most significant threats to printed artwork. Over time, they can cause:

Fading: Pigments, especially those printed with organic inks, lose their vibrancy.
Yellowing: Paper and lighter areas absorb UV exposure, slowly turning warm or dull in tone.
Material deterioration: Prolonged exposure can lead to brittleness and reduced structural integrity.

Even if artwork isn’t in direct sunlight, ambient UV rays from indoor lighting can accumulate damage over the years making UV protection an essential part of preservation.

Which Colors Fade the Fastest?

Not all pigments react to UV light the same way. Knowing which colors are vulnerable helps highlight the importance of proper glazing:

Most vulnerable: Blues fade the quickest.
Next at risk: Reds, especially those with organic dyes.
Moderately vulnerable: Yellows fade more slowly but are still affected.
Most stable: Blacks and grays typically hold their color the longest.

If your artwork includes rich blues or bold reds, UV protective glazing becomes even more crucial.

So… Which One Should You Choose?

Both plexiglass and regular glass have their own strengths. The “right” option depends on your artwork, environment, and priorities.

Choose plexiglass if you want lightweight durability, high clarity, and the option of built-in UV protection.
Choose glass if you prefer a traditional look but consider adding a UV coating to safeguard your piece.

No matter which you select, the glazing is more than a finishing touch it’s a long-term investment in the beauty and integrity of your artwork.

Framing is both an art and a science. By understanding how materials like plexiglass and glass interact with light, pigment, and the environment, you’re better equipped to preserve what matters most. Whether you’re framing a gallery-quality print or a sentimental photo, the right glazing ensures your artwork stays as vivid and meaningful as the day you framed it.