Hi all,
I am going to replace the two fixed windows on our cabin. I have been advised by some suppliers that I should use Acrylic Perspex, and other suppliers say Polycarbonate. Has anyone any experience with either of these materials.
I will be fitting them myself and have taken plywood templates.

Feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks 

Brian S/V Darramy 

+x

 

bwallace - 16 Nov 2021

Hi all,
I am going to replace the two fixed windows on our cabin. I have been advised by some suppliers that I should use Acrylic Perspex, and other suppliers say Polycarbonate. Has anyone any experience with either of these materials.
I will be fitting them myself and have taken plywood templates.

Feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks 

Brian S/V Darramy 

Hi Brian,
My take is that polycarbonate is quite a bit stronger and less likely to crack under impact. Not sure why anyone would suggest acrylic for a window on a sea-going boat unless it was in a protected area and one was worried about scratches: polycarbonate scratches more easily. With both you must be careful with the bedding choice as some caulk/bedding is not compatible. I believe polycarbonate is easier to work also, but I am less sure about that. I also think some polycarbonate is formulated to be UV resistant.
My info may be a bit dated, so please check it out, My best, Dick Stevenson, s/v Alchemy