Plexi vs. Poly

[Scrimshaw4]

I realize this may garner a wide range of replies, and yes I've researched the Forum, so here goes. I'm planning on replacing the "window panes" in my forward and aft hatches. They are wood framed. The forward hatch is octagonal and the aft hatch is a butterfly. They are both on the cabin top. The panes are protected by 3/16 SS rods positioned 2" apart and 1 " above their surface. None of the hatches would normally be walked on. When the boat is not being used the hatches are covered. After 23 years the original pane material, 1/2 Plexiglass, has become opaque and can no longer be polished.

I'm leaning towards replacing them with Plexiglass (Acrylite, Lucite, Perspex) for the UV properties vs Polycarbonate. Impact consideration is secondary due to their location and the SS bars. I'd appreciate any thoughts pro /con on this application.

[tkeithlu]

Lexan is soft and easily scratched. It is super strong - you can bend a 1/2 inch sheet double before it cracks. Plexi is harder, crazes over time (you are aware of that) and is not as strong. It shatters given an impact that would bounce off Lexan.

For your purpose plexi would appear to be the better choice. Just use as thick a sheet as the mounting will accommodate.

[s/v Jedi]

Yes, plexiglass. Lexan looses it’s toughness after some years of UV exposure as evidenced by our Bomar Lexan hatch lenses cracking.

[Chotu]

I think this will be a rare thread where we are all in agreement. LOL

Plexiglass. All the way. The problem is you will invariably step on one here or there. Even if you try not to. Maybe a guest will. Polycarbonate will not stand up to that abuse. It will scratch terribly just looking at it wrong.

[Don C L]

Lexan is the only way to go!
ok just kidding... someone had to do it.

[dkenny64]

use a marine grade plexi..
not all plexi is marine grade...
https://www.piedmontplastics.com/pro...-grade-acrylic
try here.


i bought 3/8" to make windows for my hardtop. worked well.
its also the same stuff I was given to replace my hatch lens..yes they are only 3/8. can be walked on without a problem the largest( no support other than the edges) is about 24x24 inches..


just my 2 cents


-dkenny64