Saloon Window Replacement: Tempered or Shatterproof Glass?

[Sunday Driver]

Can you use polycarbonate? I have it in my cabin windows (12” x 96”).

[Rorzech]

I like Lexan. 3/8th's is bullet proof. No D-ring on the end of a halyard is going to fly through Lexan. One morning I found a complete foot print of a hiking boot on my lexan companionway door while in the marina. Ha Ha I think the energy he used bounced him right backward into the drink because there was no other sigh of trouble.

[thruska]

I can appreciate all the information given on glass. However i must ask, has anyone used plexiglass to replace old glass ? Or a plastic derivative for windows ?
I notice a lot of new boats with adhesive glued flush or surface mounted plexiglass or some type of acrylic?
Thanks.

[crazyoldboatguy]

The problem with the plastic window material is the tendency (varying depending on the type) to craze, haze and scratch. For me, it's intolerable. For those on catamarans, it is likely a requirement due to weight considerations. On my heavy displacement vessel (47', 36,000 lb ketch) it's not an issue.