Does age weaken plastic

[Damifino]

Does time/age affect the strength of the plastic of a 20 year old Perception kayak. Boat was in stored inside and is in great condition. Should I be concerned? Thanks

[lmyers]

I don't believe so. UV and use will definitely affect the plastic, but if it was stored indoors it should be good to go regardless of being 20 years old....

[Damifino]

Thanks lmyers

[TonyM]

I agree with lmyers, if it's been inside it should be fine. If it breaks, buy another 20 year old kayak for $50.

[BilloutWest]

What weakens plastic outside is ultraviolet light.
From the sun.
What weakens plastic inside is ultraviolet light.
From fluorescent lights.

There is some discussion on this.

Oct 18, 2012 - A new study finds fluorescent light bulbs, although eco- and budget-friendly, emit high levels of ultraviolet radiation.

I've converted my house to LED but not my garage.

There will be some weakening of plastic inside .......... maybe ........

[lhowemt]

Originally Posted by BilloutWest

What weakens plastic outside is ultraviolet light.
From the sun.
What weakens plastic inside is ultraviolet light.
From fluorescent lights.

There is some discussion on this.


I've converted my house to LED but not my garage.

There will be some weakening of plastic inside .......... maybe ........

Absolutely, many gardeners use simple fluoro shop lights for starting seeds and growing seedlings.

[buckmanriver]

+ 1 for prolonged sunlight weakening kayak plastic. That is one reason I try to never buy a boat that has been stored outside.