WHY ACRYLIC

Using acrylic (PMMA) instead of glass for pool windows has several important advantages, which is why it’s the industry standard for underwater viewing panels.

CLEAR SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY PROJECT

CLEAR SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY PROJECT

Acrylic (PMMA) is the preferred material for pool windows because it’s stronger, safer, and clearer than glass, even in large or deep installations.

Below, you can see the key benefits that make acrylic the industry standard for underwater viewing panels:

ACRYLIC BENEFITS

  • Acrylic is 10–20× more impact-resistant than glass.

    It can flex slightly under water pressure instead of shattering.

    This makes it far safer for large panels or deep pools.

    Why it matters: A cracked glass panel can fail catastrophically; acrylic fails gradually.

  • Acrylic has better tensile strength and elasticity under water pressure.

    It distributes hydrostatic pressure evenly across the panel.

    Ideal for: Deep pools, large viewing windows, aquarium-style installations

  • Acrylic can be manufactured in very thick slabs (100–300+ mm).

    Even at large thicknesses, it remains optically clear.

    Glass at similar thickness becomes heavy, brittle, and optically distorted.

  • Acrylic transmits about 92% of visible light (higher than glass).

    Less green tint, clearer underwater views.

    Can be polished to near-perfect transparency.

  • Acrylic weighs about half as much as glass.

    Easier handling, transport, and installation.

    Reduces structural load on pool walls.

  • Acrylic cracks slowly instead of shattering into shards.

    This gives warning signs before failure.

    reatly reduces injury risk.

  • Better resistance to: Temperature changes and thermal shock.

    Less prone to sudden cracking than glass.

  • Acrylic can be: Bent, curved and seam-bonded for large panels

    Enables panoramic and curved pool windows.

  • Scratches can be buffed and polished out.

    Glass scratches are permanent.

BOTTOM LINE

Acrylic is preferred for pool windows because it is safer, stronger, lighter, clearer, and more reliable under water pressure than glass, especially for large or deep installations.


Talk to us about your next project or to find out more information about Acrylic installation.

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