All boats, from speedboats to luxury yachts, endure a fair amount of abuse. Marine windshields are no exception. In addition to being exposed to intense UV rays, marine windshields need to withstand wind, water and salt spray.

That's why special plastics are needed to make marine windshields. The following plastics are tougher and safer than glass and are designed to withstand all the wear and tear that the high seas can inflict on them.

Cast Acrylic Sheet

As the name suggests, cast acrylic sheet is manufactured using a process that sees MMA (methyl methacrylate monomer) liquid poured into a mould, which is then submerged in warm water to trigger the polymerisation process and set the plastic. Cast acrylic sheet can be ordered in different thicknesses, colours and tints, depending on the unique needs of the client.

Polycarbonate

250 times stronger than glass, polycarbonate offers excellent UV resistance, as well as durability against high impact force. This makes it ideal for manufacturing boat windscreens, as well as panels used for boat windows and skylights.

It’s often treated with scratch and UV-resistant coatings to enhance longevity and maximise clarity. Polycarbonate can also be tinted, adding to its versatility. While polycarbonate can be pricier than other options, at the end of the day it's worth investing in the right material for the job, as cutting corners can mean early replacements down the line.

Clear Pressed Polished Coated Vinyl

Highly scratch resistant, clear pressed and polished coated vinyl is a marine grade window material with outstanding durability. It features a clear thermoplastic vinyl base that is coated with a protective layer.

It is then pressed and polished into a flexible, clear sheet that can be easily rolled apart if desired. Clear pressed and polished coated vinyl not only provides excellent clarity, but also resists exposure to corrosive chemicals, including sunscreen, insect repellents and fuel vapors.

Polyester and Vinyl composites

Polyester and Vinyl composites are favored for their flexibility in bending and molding along the fluid contours of the boat. In addition to being water resistant, vinyl and polyester composites are mold and mildew resistant, which maximizes transparency and minimizes maintenance. This is always an advantage for boat owners who want to keep their boats looking sharp and seaworthy.