
As experts in marine and boat plastics, our knowledge and experience is a major reason boat and yacht owners trust our business and the services we offer.
When it comes to marine plastics, there isn’t a question we haven’t been asked.
In this article, we are sharing a range of FAQs covering the following services we offer. This article covers:
- Marine plastics
- Replacement boat windows and screens
- Curved boat windows and screens
- Boat washboards
- Boat hatch covers and liners

Marine and boat plastics
In this section, we cover a range of questions including:
- What are the different types of boat plastics?
- Is acrylic better than glass?
- Are marine plastics durable and more cost-effective than glass?
What are the different types of boat and marine plastics?
There are a handful of plastic materials we use. For boat windows, screens, and hatch covers we use:
- Acrylic
- Perspex®
- Polycarbonate
We’ll cover whether plastic is better than glass in the next question, however, the materials are highly durable, cost-effective, and weather resistant.
I’m looking for a replacement boat window and screen. Is acrylic better than glass?
Like with all purchasing decisions, people weigh up the pros and cons.
Glass is a bit more durable than plastic.
However, if cost is a consideration, plastic or acrylic boat windows / screen could be a better choice.
Are marine plastics durable and more cost-effective than glass?
Yes, they are highly durable.
As mentioned above, glass may well last a little longer, however, it is more expensive.
Therefore, it all comes down to personal choice and budget.
Plastic and acrylic are fantastic choices. They are the perfect choice for most boat, yacht, and rib owners.
Related reading: Why marine plastics are essential for your boat

Replacement boat windows and screens
In this section, we cover a few questions we are often asked by individuals looking for a replacement boat window or screen.
They are:
- What is the best material for boat windows? Plastic? Acrylic? Perspex®?
- Is plastic better than glass for replacement bat screens?
- How much do replacement boat windows cost?
What is the best material for boat windows? Plastic? Acrylic? Perspex®?
It can come down to budget, and a multitude of considerations.
Our recommended options for marine plastics are:
- Acrylic / Polycarbonate
- Perspex®
Acrylic is durable, cost-effective, and is easily fitted to boats, yachts, and ribs.
Perspex® is a strong material. It’s weather resistant and durable making it the ideal choice for a replacement boat window.
Is plastic & acrylic better than glass for replacement boat screens?
Plastic and acrylic are flexible, weather-resistant, and durable. These marine plastics are the perfect choice for boat, rib, and motor yacht owners.
Like with all purchasing decisions, people always need to weigh up the benefits of all options.
It’s true, glass is a bit more durable than acrylic.
Nevertheless, if cost is a key consideration, plastic or acrylic boat windows/screens could be a better choice.
Both these marine plastics are highly cost-effective and perfect for those with budget in mind.
How much do replacement boat windows cost?
All of our quotes are bespoke and reflective of individuals’ needs, considerations and budget.
The cost is derived from labour + materials.
Therefore, a larger boat or rib, may well cost more than a smaller vessel.
An initial consultation and quote should be free from any reputable supplier. Therefore, pick up the phone and speak to an expert.
Related reading: The benefits of custom boat windscreens
Related reading: The benefits of bespoke motor yacht screens

Boat hatches and liners
In this section, we cover a few questions we are often asked by individuals looking for a new boat hatch or liner.
We cover:
- What is a hatch cover?
- Do I need covers on my deck hatches?
- How much do hatch covers and liners cost?
I haven’t owned a boat for long. I’m a novice. What is a hatch cover?
Fair question.
Hatch covers protect hatches from the elements, such as sun and heat.
Without a cover, a boat hatch would need to be replaced more often than not.
This only needlessly adds to the expense of owning a boat.
Why do I need covers for my hatches?
As mentioned above, the hatch cover protects the ‘acrylic lens’ (boat hatch).
Without one, you will need a replacement boat hatch more often than necessary.
How much do hatch covers and liners cost?
The cost varies from project to project, boat to boat.
The cost is reflective of the price of materials + fitting.
If you have a tentative enquiry, you can pick up the phone and one of our marine plastics specialists will provide you with some free advice.

Boat Washboards
In this section, we cover a few questions we are often asked by individuals looking for a replacement boat washboard.
These include:
- How much will a replacement boat washboard cost?
- Is plastic or glass better for boat washboards?
- I’m a new boat owner. Why are washboards important?
How much do boat washboards cost?
The cost varies from project to project, boat to boat.
The price simply relates to the materials needed, size of the finished article and specific requirements.
If you are looking at getting a quote for a new / replacement boat washboard, our specialists are on hand to provide some free advice and a no-obligation quote.
Is plastic or glass better for boat washboards?
Ultimately it is down to personal choice, and budget.
Washboards made from wood are best made using teak-faced marine ply.
Although wooden washboards are treated, they can deteriorate over time without ongoing care and attention.
With plastic / acrylic, this issue is eradicated. They are highly durable, cost-effective and can outlast wooden washboards.
I’m a new boat owner. Why are washboards so important?
Washboards help a boat remain watertight.
If you don’t have a washboard, you are jeopardising the water tightness of your boat.
Washboards help to prevent flooding, and therefore, complement good health and safety whilst out on the water.
And after all, no boat owner needs to deal with a flood on their vessel.
Summary
Hopefully, you are now armed with more information and knowledge about the world of boat and marine plastics.
If you are looking to discuss a potential project, contact us today on 023 9248 6633 for a free no-obligation conversation.
Alternatively, head over to our marine and boat plastics page to find out more about our full range of services.