Plywood boarding has been used for decades to replace glass panels that have been removed from residential and commercial premises which no longer have tenant or owner occupation for a variety of reasons including foreclosure by banks or long term building activities. Plywood has developed a reputation of being a blight due to its appearance and being a magnet for graffiti. In addition, Plywood is not transparent thus attracting unwelcome visitors who are not seen at day or night within a vacant property. In the USA where house foreclosures have seen a dramatic rise during and after the GFC (Global Financial Crisis)
many financial institutions as well as governmental authorities have placed restrictions on the use of plywood and are encouraging alternatives such as steel, painted plywood, window decals on plywood or see through materials such as Acrylic or polycarbonate. These materials allow the security required, whilst providing the addition of visual within premises.
Polycarbonate is by far the best option due to its superior toughness (250 times the strength of glass) its UV resistance and clarity and it can also be cut to size on site using power tools.
Allplastics cuts and supplies polycarbonate sheets from 1.5mm to 12.7mm in a variety of sheet sizes and variant coatings depending on its application.
Polycarbonate glazing is more aesthetically pleasing than plywood or timber due to its see through clear nature. This will reduce the possibility of squatters entering vacant properties or abandoned buildings as well as protecting the communities by reducing crime rates and providing stability to the neighbourhoods.
Polycarbonate cannot be cracked or shattered by rocks or bricks making it the ideal choice in environments requiring clear yet tough glazing.
