Splash guard - Plexiglass or Lexan?

Lexan can take more heat than plexiglas, so that would be a better choice. But, if the heat generated by the light would only make the shield warm to touch it wouldn't make much difference.

As hoppy stated, it shouldnt make much difference. However Lexan is more durable. Almost impossible to break.

get lexan, plexiglass discolors/turns yellow in sunlight so it may do the same under lighting. Also plexi is more brittle.

Where do you buy lexan? is it easy to cut to size? I am getting really tired of heavy glass!

zer0zax said:

Where do you buy lexan? is it easy to cut to size? I am getting really tired of heavy glass!

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Ask your friendly local hardware store... if that fails, most of the big-box hardware chains carry it. As for cutting it, if you use the thinner stuff that you would need for a light guard, you can just score it several times with a utility knife and snap it.

Does anyone know if there is a difference in light transmission/clarity between the two?

Local glass stores will have it, I got some at the autoglass place near me. I used it in my car for the windows so I had them cut it to the shape of my old glass.

As far as clarity, just like I said the plexiglass turns yellowish/cloudy from sunlight but I'm not sure if it would do it under lights?

How necessary is a splash guard?
I have a T5 fixture on legs and none of my fish do much splashing.
-d

Neither, i preffer a heat treated glass. I got mine at the internet which you can get in diffrent size. You can clean the glass easy and its heat proof. Both that u mentioned will get water stain in a long run and will not come off.

my preference is 1/4 " plate glass because it easy to notch with a wet sander, easy to clean & hard to break

Indignation said:

I would like to add a splash guard to my Catalina Aquarium light fixture. I'm not sure if I need Plexiglass (acrylic) or Lexan (polycarbonate). Any input?
Thanks!

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I would go with Polycarbonate , I've work with it , it's very strong and stays clear , you can drill and tap into it
with out breaking it.