When your storefront window shatters, your first thoughts may not be about curb appeal at all. You’ll probably be focused on keeping people safe and securing the opening as quickly as possible. That urgency is what could make you consider temporary solutions like Plexiglas or Lexan.
Below, this commercial glass replacement contractor in Oak Lawn, Illinois is going to explain how Plexiglas and Lexan perform as temporary storefront solutions.
Can Plexiglas or Lexan replace storefront glass temporarily?
You will usually hear Plexiglas and Lexan mentioned in the same breath because they both try to solve the same problem. You’ll need to close a broken storefront opening quickly, but you do not want to block visibility or make your store look closed.
Both materials allow light to pass through, which already makes them a better option than plywood. Your customers can still see inside, and your storefront looks open for business.
Plexiglas
Plexiglas is truly just a brand name for acrylic sheets. It is popular for temporary storefront use because it looks clean and clear. It can also look a lot like real glass from some angles.
Light passes through easily, so you can keep the interior bright and welcoming. Acrylic also has a fairly hard surface for a plastic material. It is less likely to show fine scratches from routine cleaning or contact.
If you mainly need something that maintains appearance while you wait for replacement glass, Plexiglas checks the right boxes.
Lexan
Lexan is a type of polycarbonate and strength is what it is best known for. Compared to standard glass and acrylic, Lexan offers much higher impact resistance.
If your storefront has already been targeted once, you may worry that it could happen again before the permanent glass is installed. In those situations, Lexan gives you extra security while still allowing visibility into your space.
A professional commercial glass replacement contractor in Oak Lawn, Illinois, like Glass & Mirror America, works with Plexiglas and Lexan for emergency and temporary storefront repairs. These solutions can help you keep your store secure and usable while your permanent glass is being fabricated.
When do contractors recommend Plexiglas or Lexan?
There are situations in which a commercial glass replacement contractor in Oak Lawn, Illinois may recommend Plexiglas or Lexan as part of the repair process. One of those is after-hours damage.
Imagine your storefront window gets smashed late at night or over a long holiday weekend. In cases like that, a full glass replacement simply does not happen immediately. Your priority is making sure no one gets injured and that your property is protected from further damage.
In these situations, contractors may recommend a board-up service. Board-ups secure the opening and cover sharp glass edges. They get the job done in an emergency, but you probably do not want to look at plywood any longer than necessary. Once the situation is stable, temporary panels can be installed.
Another reason contractors recommend Plexiglas or Lexan is when your replacement glass is not readily available. Many storefronts use custom glass, like DefenseLite, that must be fabricated to exact measurements and treated before installation. That fabrication process can take days or even weeks, depending on the glass type.
During that waiting period, you still need to open your doors and look presentable. A clear temporary panel can help you do that.
Looking for a commercial glass replacement contractor in Oak Lawn, Illinois?
Are you dealing with a broken storefront window? If so, now is the time to reach out to a trusted commercial glass replacement contractor in Oak Lawn, Illinois, like Glass & Mirror America. We offer emergency board-up services, temporary Plexiglas and Lexan installations and full storefront glass replacement when a permanent solution is needed. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
