DIY-minded homeowners often have to choose between different building materials for their various projects. Each of these materials presents certain advantages over others that could be used for the same purpose.

Below is a discussion on the various advantages associated with different types of plastic for different DIY projects around the home.

Plexiglass Vs Glass

Plexiglass is increasingly being preferred over glass for various applications. This preference can be attributed to the fact that plexiglass is a lighter and more transparent building material (among other reasons). The reduced weight of plexiglass easily translates into significant savings for various construction projects. If you intend to construct a greenhouse, for example, you can reduce the depth required for the foundation of the structure by using sheets of plexiglass instead of using glass panels. This is because plexiglass would not need as much structural support. The shallower foundation easily translates into significant cost savings.

Using sheets of plexiglass would also mean that the greenhouse will allow more of the sun's light to reach the plants therein, thereby maximizing their potential for healthy growth and development

Increased transparency would also be a significant advantage if you intend to increase the amount of natural light that gets into your house through the windows. Thus, the next time you plan for DIY window replacement, consider investing in replacement windows made of plexiglass instead of the traditional glass windows.

Acrylic Vs Polycarbonate

Acrylic and polycarbonate are both types of plastic. The two are common roofing materials for residential garden sheds. Many homeowners often choose polycarbonate roofing for their garden sheds because they're known to have improved impact resistance.

However, polycarbonate panels diffuse light while clear acrylic sheets allow light to pass through. You might want to consider this factor before you choose polycarbonate roofing panels for the DIY shed.

PVC Vs Metal

PVC is increasingly being preferred over metal for residential rain gutters. For many homeowners, this preference is informed by the fact that PVC gutters are often more affordable. However, this is not the only advantage associated with these gutters.

For one, corrosion is not a problem with gutters made of PVC and these gutters are more flexible than those made of metal. Thus, the constant exposure of gutters to rain water shouldn't get you worried about corrosion if your gutters are made of PVC. Greater flexibility means that PVC gutters are less likely to suffer permanent deformation due to the weight exerted by rain water and/or accumulated debris. How does replacing metal gutters with their PVC counterparts sound for your next DIY project?