In this article, we take a look at the different types of boat and marine plastics. If you look after your boat well, you can reduce its running costs as well as maintaining its seaworthiness.
When it comes to boat windows, screens and windshields choosing the right type of material is paramount.
As Hampshire Plastics we are specialists in:
- Boat windows and screens
- Batch hatch covers and liners
- Boat washboards
Typically, boat windows, screens and windshields need to be durable, versatile and highly weather resistant.
Marine and boat plastics tick those boxes, so let’s get started with the article.
The Different Types of Marine & Boat Plastics
There are a whole range of boat plastics used for windows, screens, and shields. They are:
- Acrylic
- Perspex®
- Polycarbonate
Let’s take a look at each:
Acrylic
Acrylic panels are semi-rigid and offer excellent visibility.
Acrylic is highly durable, versatile, and is incredibly difficult to break. All in all this makes acrylic a favourable choice for boat windows, screens and shields.
One of the drawbacks is acrylic boat windows and screens can be scratched easier than some other options, such as glass.
Perspex®
Perspex® is a highly durable, quality material for use in the manufacturing of a range of marine plastic products.
Perspex® is often used when manufacturing:
- Boat windows
- Curved boat windows
- Custom and bespoke boat windows
- Boat screens
- Boat windscreens and windshields
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is made from clear plastic. It is a semi-rigid, versatile, durable material.
Polycarbonate boat windows are generally considered to be pretty much unbreakable. That’s a pretty big benefit of using polycarbonate for boat windows, screens and windshields.
If you are looking for maximum visibility when out on the water, polycarbonate is a strong option.
Furthermore, polycarbonate can be coated with scratch and UV-resistant coatings. This provides additional protection.
Related reading from the Hampshire Plastics blog
Enjoyed this article?
Looking to learn more about marine plastics?
If you are a boat owner and are looking for a manufacturer of quality boat windows, screens and windshields, here is a selection of some of our latest articles:
- Marine & boat plastics – your questions answered
- Why marine plastics are essential for your boat
- Replacement boat windows and screens: acrylic vs glass
About Hampshire Plastics
Based in Portsmouth, Hampshire Plastics offer a range of marine plastic products.
Our range of marine plastics products includes:
- Boat windows and screens
- Batch hatch covers and liners
- Boat washboards
With over 50 years of experience and ISO 9001:2015 accreditation, our highly skilled and experienced staff are able to deliver high quality products, unique to your specification.
Call us today on 023 9248 6633 for a free consultation.
