Looking for a new or for replacement boat window, screen, or windshield? Getting confused by all the different options? As part of our ongoing commitment to sharing our extensive knowledge of marine and boat plastics, we have put together a new guide.
Today’s guide covers the best materials for replacement boat windows, screens, and windshields.
In this guide we cover:
- The different types of marine plastics
- A quick overview of each material – acrylic, Perspex®, polycarbonate
- A summary of the best materials for replacement boat windows, screens, and windshields
Related reading:
Looking to learn more about the different types of marine and boat plastics?
Here are a couple of articles we have recently published:
The Different Types of Marine & Boat Plastics
Replacement Boat Windows and Screens: Acrylic Vs Glass
The different types of marine plastics
There are three core materials that are used in the marine industry. They are:
- Acrylic
- Perspex®
- Polycarbonate
Each material is highly suitable for boat windows, screens, and windshields, and offer a wide range of benefits.
A quick overview of each material – acrylic, Perspex®, and polycarbonate
Here’s a quick overview of each material.
Acrylic
Acrylic is a highly durable, versatile material. Acrylic is incredibly difficult to break and is highly weatherproof and waterproof.
It is also resistant to sea and salt spray, making it a favourable choice for boat windows, screens and shields.
Perspex®
For boat owners looking for a new or replacement screen, window or shield, Perspex® is a fantastic choice.
Perspex® is:
- Highly durable
- Waterproof
- Weather-resistant
- Shatter-resistant
In addition to boat screens, windshields and windows, Perspex® is often used when manufacturing curved boat windows and screens.
Related reading
If you need a s curved boat window or screen, have a read of our article covering the advantages of Perspex® & acrylic for curved boat screens & windows (link to blog).
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is made from a clear plastic and is an excellent choice for boat owners looking for a new screen, window or shield.
Polycarbonate is
- Semi-rigid
- Versatile
- Highly durable
Seasoned seafarers will be pleased to know, that polycarbonate boat windows offer maximum visibility, and are generally considered to be nearly unbreakable.
Furthermore, polycarbonate can be coated with scratch and UV-resistant coatings. This provides additional protection and longevity – perfect for budget conscious boat owners.
A summary of the best materials for replacement boat windows, screens, and windshields.
Hopefully you are now armed with more valuable information now, than you were at the start of this article.
Acrylic, Perspex® and polycarbonate are excellent materials to use when manufacturing a new or replacement screens, windows, or boat windshields.
Whilst each material is unique in form, the core benefits are similar. They are:
- Versatile
- Highly durable
- Waterproof
- Weather-resistant
- Shatter-resistant
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Cost-effective
Looking for a replacement window, screen, or windshield for your boat?
With decades of industry experience, you will be in safe hands with Hampshire Plastics.
Call us today on 023 9248 6633 for free advice, or to enquire about our services.
