Plexiglass or something else?

[ptlf]

I'm going to build an outdoor kitchen and plan to make cabinets under the counter. I want them to be tight but at the same time look as sparse as the rest of the windbreak. Should I use plexiglass or some other type of plastic that works, as I want it to withstand the sun too. Is there anyone knowledgeable in that field?

 

[Rabbithole]

Plexiglass works excellently

 

[ptlf]

Plexiglas works excellently

Sounds good, does it not become unattractive due to the sun then? Thickness?

 

[BosseHansson]

Why can't you have regular glass?

 

[Rabbithole]

Plexiglas withstands sunlight well, but it will need to be washed with soap sometimes to keep it clean, applies to everything really.

 

[ptlf]

Why can't you have regular glass?

Thinking it's easier to screw on plexiglass or something similar than glass and so cheaper but maybe it isn't?

 

[BosseHansson]

I would have clamped it regardless of the material. There's also a risk of plexiglass cracking when drilling. Regular float glass doesn't cost many kronor.

 

[ptlf]

I would have clamped it regardless of material. There is also a risk that plexiglass cracks when drilling. Regular float glass doesn't cost many kronor.

Ok, will have to consider then. I was thinking of screwing a junction box into the plexiglass too, but it can be attached to some molding instead.

 

[KnockOnWood]

It becomes really strong with makrolon (=polycarbonate). Does not crack when processed and screwed like plexiglass easily does.

 

[ptlf]

Really strong becomes with makrolon (=polycarbonate).
Doesn't crack when working with it and screwing into it like plexiglass easily does.

And it blocks the sun without becoming yellow or "milky"? Is it available at a glass workshop and is it expensive?

 

[KnockOnWood]

And it stops the sun without turning yellow or "milky"? Is it available at glass workshops and is it expensive?

Don't know about either question.
Switched to Makrolon for the sailboat's cabin windows because the plexiglass cracked.
But that was a long time ago.

 

[Stiftet]

And does it stop the sun without becoming yellow or "milky"? Is it available at glass shops and is it expensive?

Acrylic becomes ugly and scratched over time. Polycarbonate withstands UV light and is unbreakable, it is more expensive than acrylic (plexi etc.). Sold by specialty stores. I would probably choose tempered glass, considering the danger that it can be shattered in a bench construction.

 

[Rabbithole]

Polycarbonate does NOT withstand UV light in its normal form without needing a protective coating to prevent discoloration over time. Otherwise, it is superior.

 

[ptlf]

Polycarbonate does NOT withstand UV light in its normal form and needs a protective coating to avoid discoloration over time. Otherwise, it is superior

But then it sounds like a more expensive alternative than regular glass if it needs coating but thanks for the advice.