Plexiglass vs Lexan?

[Marcia]

I want to replace the old scratched, cracked plexiglass on my sliding companionway cover and ventilation hatches. They are currently bedded on to teak frames using silicone. Which plastic is preferred for sailboats and what is used to bed lexan if not silicone?

 

[Warren Milberg]

Poly carbonate

What you want is a polycarbonate, of which Lexan is but one of its trade names. You want to very sure it is UV stabilized and it can be sealed with urethane or silicone. See link for more details.

 

[jimq26]

Polycarbonate is stronger - but softer.

Polycarbonate will scratch easily when compared to plexiglass. Riot squads have their shields and and helmet visors made of polycarbonate, but a simple fingernail can scratch the surface.

 

[Dave Groshong]

we'll soon be offering polymer

replacement boards for companionway sliders; that's the white, opaque material many know as Starboard or HDPE.Call me for the templating kit.Dave GroshongCustomer ServiceSailboatOwners.comToll Free 877-932-7245 ext.116, Mon-Fri, 9-5 Pacific.