I went the DIY route too, but used glass instead of plexiglass. Bit heavier to handle, but I liked the clarity better. Definitely agree it's worth the effort—my heating bills dropped noticeably, and no more wrestling with plastic film every winter...
"Bit heavier to handle, but I liked the clarity better."
Glass definitely has its perks, clarity being a big one—but did you run into any issues with condensation or sealing? I've seen DIY glass inserts work wonders, but I've also had to fix a few installs where moisture got trapped between panes. Plexiglass isn't perfect either (scratches drive me nuts), but it tends to flex a bit more forgivingly in temperature swings. Curious how your setup's holding up over time...any fogging or drafts creeping in yet? If you ever notice moisture buildup, a small silica gel packet tucked discreetly in the frame can sometimes help. Not a miracle cure, but worth a shot before redoing the whole thing. Glad it's saving you on heating bills though—nothing beats ditching that plastic film wrestling match every winter.
Glass clarity's nice, but honestly plexi's saved my sanity:
- Dropped a glass insert once... RIP garage floor.
- Plexi scratches suck, but no condensation nightmares (yet).
- Temperature swings here are brutal; flex beats brittle any day.
- Bonus: way easier to DIY without calling Dad for backup...again.
I've been tempted by plexi for the same reasons—especially the DIY factor—but how's it holding up long-term? I've heard UV exposure can make it cloudy or brittle over time. Glass is a pain (and yeah, RIP garage floors everywhere...), but at least it stays clear. Curious if you've noticed any yellowing or cracking yet, or if that's mostly just internet horror stories?
"I've heard UV exposure can make it cloudy or brittle over time."
Honestly, I've had plexi windows in my shed for about 4 years now, and they're still pretty clear. Maybe slightly less crystal-clear than day one, but nothing dramatic—definitely no cracking yet. I think the UV horror stories might be a bit exaggerated online (shocker, right?). That said, I did spring for UV-resistant plexi, so maybe that's making the difference. Glass is nice, but after sweeping up shards once...plexi wins for me.
Maybe slightly less crystal-clear than day one, but nothing dramatic—definitely no cracking yet. I think the UV horror stories might be a bit exaggerated online (shocker, right?).
I've seen plexi hold up pretty well too, but UV-resistant or not, location matters. My neighbor's south-facing shed windows turned noticeably cloudy after about 6 years. Not brittle exactly, just... hazy. So maybe orientation and direct sun exposure play bigger roles than we think?
hazy.
Yeah, orientation definitely matters. South-facing windows take a beating from UV exposure, so even UV-resistant plexi will eventually show some wear. If you're looking to extend clarity, you might try adding a simple UV film or shade cloth—nothing fancy needed. My buddy did that on his greenhouse windows, and they're still pretty clear after 8+ years. Not perfect, but way better than the neighbor's hazy shed situation...
I get the UV film suggestion, but wouldn't that kinda defeat the purpose of having clear windows in the first place? I mean, sure, it helps with longevity, but doesn't it dull the view a bit? My neighbor tried something similar and ended up peeling it off after a year because he couldn't stand the slight tint. Maybe it's just personal preference, but I'd rather replace plexi every decade or so than compromise clarity...
I see your point about clarity—films can definitely alter the view a bit, though some newer ones are pretty subtle. Have you considered looking into higher-grade acrylics or polycarbonates specifically designed for harsh climates? They tend to resist UV damage and temperature extremes better without needing films. Might cost a bit more upfront, but could it be worth it if clarity's your main concern? Curious if anyone here's tried those high-end materials yet...
"Have you considered looking into higher-grade acrylics or polycarbonates specifically designed for harsh climates?"
That's a solid suggestion. I've used polycarbonate sheets a few times for outdoor projects in colder climates, and they held up exceptionally well. The higher-end polycarbonates, especially the UV-stabilized varieties, are quite impressive—clarity stays consistent even after a few harsh winters. Acrylics can be good too, particularly cast acrylic rather than extruded, as it's generally tougher and less prone to cracking under temperature fluctuations.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is thermal expansion. Polycarbonate expands and contracts noticeably more than glass, so proper installation with allowances for movement is critical. If you're framing it yourself, consider using flexible sealants or specialized mounting hardware that accommodates expansion. Otherwise, you'll likely encounter warping or stress cracks over time.
Also, while clarity is usually excellent initially, polycarbonates can scratch more easily than glass. There are abrasion-resistant coatings available, but they add to the cost. Still, if clarity is the priority, it's worth factoring in that extra expense upfront.
In short, yes—high-grade polycarbonates and acrylics are viable alternatives, provided you account for their quirks during installation. Given what you're describing, I'd say polycarbonate with a UV and abrasion-resistant coating might be your best bet.