Polycarbonate Convex Traffic Mirror with Steel Backing: Shatterproof

Polycarbonate mirrors, renowned for their durability, are commonly acclaimed as “unbreakable” due to two key factors. The first factor lies in their exceptional strength, boasting 250 times more resistance against impacts than traditional glass mirrors (while acrylic mirrors are a mere seventeen times stronger). This remarkable strength ensures that polycarbonate mirrors can endure significant force without succumbing to damage or breakage.

The second factor contributing to polycarbonate mirrors’ “unbreakable” reputation is their unique ability to resist shattering. Polycarbonate mirrors remain intact even under immense pressure, unlike glass mirrors, which tend to fracture and disintegrate upon impact. This attribute makes polycarbonate mirrors ideal for environments where breakage is highly undesirable, such as prisons, locations susceptible to vandalism, or settings where safety is paramount, such as schools and daycare centers.

Opting for polycarbonate mirrors in such settings significantly reduces the risk of accidents, injuries, and costly replacements. Moreover, the durability of these mirrors ensures a prolonged lifespan, providing long-term cost-effectiveness and peace of mind. Ultimately, polycarbonate mirrors’ unparalleled strength and shatter-resistant properties make them the optimal choice for environments where breakage is intolerable or safety and security are paramount.

Acrylic mirrors are excellent in most scenarios, but choose Polycarbonate if you need something that meets the specifications above. The polycarbonate convex mirrors featured below are available in different sizes, backings, and the number of mounting brackets.

Choosing a Backing for Your Unbreakable Convex Mirror

There are two backing choices below for the unbreakable polycarbonate mirror. In our experience, the heavy-duty plastic backing option is superior to galvanized steel for the reasons below:

• The heavy-duty plastic backing comprises 1/8” High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). This is rigid and resistant to most chemicals, salty air, water, and moisture. The galvanized steel backing is 20-gauge steel. It is tough as well, but it is not significantly more substantial than the HDPE.
• The plastic back mirror’s lighter weight does better in windy conditions than the steel’s. Over time, the galvanized steel will deteriorate, while the HDPE backing will not.
• The HDPE plastic mirror backing is significantly less expensive than steel
• HDPE is resistant to most chemicals.
• HDPE is great in extremely cold & hot weather conditions. Steel will expand and contract more than HDPE.

We do not want to discourage anyone from using galvanized steel. There may be situations where steel is necessary, and the plastic option is not an option.

Choosing a Mounting Style for Your PolyCarbonate Mirror

There are two basic mounting bracket styles, the Z-bracket and the Telescoping bracket (see images here: Convex Mirror Mounting Options.

The Z-bracket is an efficient and reliable mounting solution designed specifically for smaller mirrors ranging from 12 inches to 36 inches in size. While it provides excellent support for indoor applications, outdoor installations should not use this bracket for mirrors exceeding 26 inches in size.

The Telescoping bracket is the bracket of choice for all outdoor and larger mirrors. This versatile arm offers flexibility and adjustability, allowing users to customize their mirror positioning according to their needs.

For mirrors exceeding 36 inches in size, a double-mounted configuration is recommended for outdoor use. This additional support ensures enhanced stability and durability in challenging outdoor conditions. Moreover, if wind conditions are a concern, it is highly recommended to opt for a triple-mounted configuration, which provides the utmost strength and security.

In summary, the Z-bracket is ideal for mounting smaller mirrors within 12 to 36 inches. The telescoping bracket has telescoping arm options and reliable single, double, or triple mounting configurations for larger mirrors or any outdoor mirror.