Plexiglass vs Polycarbonate (Lexan)

[Thee Jimbo]

Plusses and minuses of each. I am told that lexan might be a better replacement than plexiglass. Lexan wont break etc. However I have never seen a "broken" front or back window on a scamp plus I am installing a gravel guard.

Thoughts?

From what I have read:
Plexiglass:
cheaper
scratches - can be restored by sanding and buffing
resistant to breaking - when breaks pieces are large and dull edged

Polycarbonate:
15% more expensive
untreated sheet discolors in 5-7 years of sun exposure
scratches - cannot be restored by sanding and buffing

Also I have been quoted 350-400 for two cut windows installed, maybe 300 for installed plexiglass is the cheapest option. Does this sound about right or shall I keep shopping around??

Ive looked for other threads comparing, but didnt find it so donna if you know of an existing thread, point me there please.

Thanks All

[Ian G.]

You are correct in those general comments. Poly also has a much greater impact resustance but is also more flexible. I personally installed Poly in my Boler.
You can do the windows yourself, here is everything you need to know.
Front & Rear Windows

[Thee Jimbo]

Great link. Thanks. One post ineed said it was worth the fifty bucks to have the glass shoonomstall.cuz sometimes these suckersncan be a realnuou-kmow-what to.put in

[John Linck]

Poly/Lexan is much easier to cut at home. Cuts well with a sabre or band saw. Plexi just melts and fuses back together. I believe both cut by scoring deeply and snapping, though that can be tricky, especially curved cuts.

[redbarron55]

The polycarbonate is tougher but scratches easier.


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[Ruth C.]

I cut Lexan by scoring/snapping with no problem, but they were straight cuts. I took a stained glass class, and it was the same method but even a little easier. If I had to do curves,which were a little trickier, for me, I'd just call around to stained glass artists' shops and sweetly ask for someone to do the cuts. They'd do it a lot cheaper, than a window place, I think. Maybe even free if you sound pitiful enough...

[tractors1]

Lexan/Poly is what covers headlights & tail lights on vehicles. Cuts fine on a table saw with an 80 tooth or finer carbide blade, also easily shaped with a router if you make a template to follow for your window shape. Edges smooth well with medium sandpapers. I use it in 1/8th to 3/16 thicknesses.

Plexiglass doesn't hold up well to road grit and ANY abrasives when you wash the trailer.

[Uplander]

LEXAN is the best choice.