Made in the USA
Expert sizing support
NSM

National Safety Mirror

Outdoor Polycarbonate Convex Traffic Mirror — Steel Back

Product specs

Features and technical details

  • ✓Wide-angle convex field of view
  • ✓Suitable for outdoor applications
  • ✓Made in the USA
  • ✓Multiple orderable configurations

Convex Mirrors for Security and Safety Applications · Driveway Mirror & Traffic Mirrors

Outdoor Polycarbonate Convex Traffic Mirror — Steel Back

SKU CBVI-PC

From$88.95

Starting configuration

12″Z-bracketup to 12 ft

Starts at $88.95 for the 12″ / z-bracket build. Larger sizes and wind-rated brackets update the final price in the live options table below.

15 configurations available. Choose your size and bracket in the options table below to lock the exact SKU and final price.

Our standard outdoor convex mirror for everyday traffic and facility use. Commonly used in parking garages, as a traffic mirror, and at dangerous intersections to prevent accidents.

  • •160° field of view
  • •Approximately 250× the impact resistance of glass; material comparison varies by grade and test.
  • •Galvanized steel backing
  • •Handmade in the USA

Best for

Convex Mirrors for Security and Safety ApplicationsDriveway Mirror & Traffic MirrorsWarehouse blind cornersParking exits

Sizing help

Use roughly 1 inch of round mirror diameter per 1 foot of viewing distance as a starting estimate. Confirm the sightline, mounting position and mirror size for your location.

Buyer fit check

Choose this traffic mirror when durability matters more than lowest cost

Polycarbonate and galvanized steel are the heavy-duty route for outdoor blind spots that may see impact, wind, public exposure, or rough facility use.

Good fit for

  • ✓Fleet yards, industrial traffic routes, loading areas, school zones, and public-road approaches
  • ✓Installations where thrown objects, vehicle contact, or vandalism would crack an acrylic mirror
  • ✓Specs that call for steel backing or a heavier-duty outdoor assembly

Choose another style when

  • →Choose the HDPE-backed acrylic outdoor mirror for ordinary driveway and parking-lot use.
  • →Choose a rectangular outdoor convex mirror for garage turns or low-clearance locations.
Compare acrylic vs polycarbonate

Specifications

Lens material
Polycarbonate
Impact resistance
Approximately 250× the impact resistance of glass; material comparison varies by grade and test.
Field of view
160° convex
Use
Outdoor (also indoor)
Backing
Galvanized steel
Sizes
12″ · 18″ · 26″ · 30″ · 36″
Brackets
Z · Single T · Double T · Triple T
Made in
USA

Outdoor Polycarbonate Convex Traffic Mirror — Steel Back — at a glance

  • Available sizes 12 inch · 18 inch · 26 inch · 30 inch · 36 inch
  • Lens material Polycarbonate
  • Backing Galvanized steel
  • Mounting options Z Style Bracket · Telescoping Bracket
  • Mirrors are made to order in Sturgis, Michigan. Some common mirrors may be available sooner. Made-to-order mirrors are typically ready to ship within 4–9 business days.

Available options · 15 SKUs

Pick your size & bracket.

Every configuration ships with the bracket included. Not sure which to choose? Use the sizing guide or talk to an expert.

Size:
Bracket:
⌕
SKUSizeBracketCovers*PriceDescriptionQtyAdd
SCVO-PC-12Z-GB
12″Z-bracketup to 12 ft
$88.95
12 inch Convex Mirror Size with Z Style Bracket & Galvanized Steel Backing
SCVO-PC-12T-GB
12″Single telescopingup to 12 ft
$95.95
12 inch Convex Mirror Size with Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
SCVO-PC-18Z-GB
18″Z-bracketup to 18 ft
$168.95
18 inch Convex Mirror Size with Z Style Bracket & Galvanized Steel Backing
SCVO-PC-18T-GB
18″Single telescopingup to 18 ft
$150.95
18 inch Convex Mirror Size with Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
DCVO-PC-18T-GB
18″Double telescopingup to 18 ft
$197.95
18 inch Convex Mirror Size with 2x Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
SCVO-PC-26Z-GB
26″Z-bracketup to 26 ft
$280.95
26 inch Convex Mirror Size with Z Style Bracket & Galvanized Steel Backing
SCVO-PC-26T-GB
26″Single telescopingup to 26 ft
$291.95
26 inch Convex Mirror Size with Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
DCVO-PC-26T-GB
26″Double telescopingup to 26 ft
$285.95
26 inch Convex Mirror Size with 2 x Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
TCVO-PC-26T-GB
26″Triple telescopingup to 26 ft
$327.95
26 inch Convex Mirror Size with 3 x Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
SCVO-PC-30T-GB
30″Single telescopingup to 30 ft
$377.95
30 inch Convex Mirror Size with Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
DCVO-PC-30T-GB
30″Double telescopingup to 30 ft
$412.95
30 inch Convex Mirror Size with 2 x Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
TCVO-PC-30T-GB
30″Triple telescopingup to 30 ft
$431.95
30 inch Convex Mirror Size with 3 x Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
SCVO-PC-36T-GB
36″Single telescopingup to 36 ft
$560.95
36 inch Convex Mirror Size with Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
DCVO-PC-36T-GB
36″Double telescopingup to 36 ft
$579.95
36 inch Convex Mirror Size with 2 x Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing
TCVO-PC-36T-GB
36″Triple telescopingup to 36 ft
$597.95
36 inch Convex Mirror Size with 3 x Telescoping & Bracket Galvanized Steel Backing

* Coverage estimate uses the 1-inch = 1.5-foot guideline from the NSM sizing guide.

Ordering multiple SKUs or larger volume?

We can quote mixed-SKU orders, help choose the bracket mix, and check freight before you place the order.

Product details

Everything you need to know

Mounting & installation+

All brackets ship with mounting hardware and instructions. Most installations take under 15 minutes.

  • •Z-bracket — small indoor mirrors (12″–20″), close-wall mount with pivot-ball aiming.
  • •Single telescoping T-bracket — recommended for 12″–24″ outdoor mirrors.
  • •Double telescoping — recommended for 26″–30″ outdoor mirrors.
  • •Triple telescoping — recommended for 32″–48″ outdoor mirrors, high-wind locations, or 36″+ mirrors.
Shipping & returns+
  • •Made-to-order mirrors are typically ready to ship within 4–9 business days.
  • •For non-warranty returns, request an RMA within 30 days of delivery. Approved returns must be new and in their original packaging; a 25% restocking fee and buyer-paid return shipping apply.
  • •Volume orders (10+ units): request a freight quote, with a reply within 1 business day.
  • •Secure payments via all major cards and ACH.
FAQ+

What’s the difference between Z and telescoping brackets? Z-brackets are close-wall indoor mounts with pivot-ball aiming behind the mirror. Telescoping brackets adjust from 14.5″ to 21.5″ and are the right choice for outdoor, pole, and larger-mirror installs.

Does acrylic yellow in the sun? Our acrylic is UV-stabilized. Unlike low-grade imported mirrors, it will not haze or yellow over normal outdoor life.

Can I get a custom SKU? Yes — if your size, backing, or bracket is not listed, contact us for a custom quote.

Need help picking the right SKU?

Our U.S.-based team can help size the mirror, choose the bracket, and quote the order.

Outdoor Polycarbonate Convex Traffic Mirror — Steel Back description & specifications

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.

Mounting & installation

Lens Type: Polycarbonate

Convex Mirror Size: 12 inch, 18 inch, 26 inch, 30 inch, 36 inch

Bracket Type: Z Style Bracket, Telescoping Bracket

Qty of Brackets: Single, Double, Triple

Backing: Galvanized steel

Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor Rated

Shipping & returns

Made-to-order mirrors are typically ready to ship within 4–9 business days.

For non-warranty returns, request an RMA within 30 days of delivery. Approved returns must be new and in their original packaging; a 25% restocking fee and buyer-paid return shipping apply.

Report shipping damage within seven business days of delivery.

If you need a bulk quote, project guidance, or confirmation before ordering, you can request a bulk quote or call NSM at 678-214-3440 before checkout.

FAQ

How long do mirrors take to ship?

Inspection mirrors typically ship within 3–5 business days. Other mirrors are made to order in Sturgis, Michigan, and are typically ready to ship within 4–9 business days. Some common mirrors may already be available; contact NSM for current shipment times.

Sources: National Safety Mirror shipping policy

How do acrylic and polycarbonate compare for impact and scratching?

Impact resistance describes resistance to a strike or shattering; it does not describe surface hardness or scratch resistance. NSM uses approximate material comparisons of 15× glass for acrylic and 250× for polycarbonate. Published figures vary by grade, thickness and test: Advanced Plastiform, for example, cites about 10× for acrylic and 250× for polycarbonate. Acrylic is generally more scratch resistant than uncoated polycarbonate, while glass is harder at the surface. These material comparisons are not a model-specific test rating or a bullet-resistance certification.

Sources: KastLite: acrylic versus polycarbonate · Advanced Plastiform: impact and scratch resistance · Palram: polycarbonate glazing material comparison

What are the return and warranty terms?

Report shipping damage within seven business days of delivery. For non-warranty returns, request an RMA within 30 days of receipt and return the merchandise within 30 days after the RMA is issued. Approved returns must be new and in original packaging; a 25% restocking fee and buyer-paid return shipping apply. Special, discounted, large-quantity and ALL SALES FINAL orders are excluded as detailed in the Returns policy. The manufacturer provides a one-year replacement warranty for defects in material or workmanship under normal use and care, subject to its full warranty terms.

Sources: National Safety Mirror returns policy · National Safety Mirror manufacturer warranty · National Safety Mirror shipping policy

How should I clean and care for a polycarbonate mirror?

Clean polycarbonate mirror with soap and water and a clean, soft, lint-free damp cloth. Never use ammonia cleaners such as Windex or 409, and never dry-wipe the surface because dust can scratch the lens. Read the Polycarbonate Mirror Care guide for cleaner, polish, and graffiti-removal precautions.

Sources: Polycarbonate Mirror Care

How do I choose the right mirror for my space?

Start with the application — driveway exit, warehouse aisle, blind intersection, retail surveillance, or vehicle inspection — then size by viewing distance using the 1 inch of diameter per 1 foot of viewing distance rule. If you'd like a recommendation, contact NSM with your installation context and we'll narrow the right size, lens, backing, and mount.

What if I need help picking the exact configuration?

Use the live options table above to compare every purchasable row by size, bracket, and price. If you're between two configurations, contact NSM directly before checkout — bulk pricing, government quotes, and project-specific sizing guidance are all available at no charge.

See more questions in the full FAQ.

Related guides

Related mirrors and guides

Compare similar mirrors, check the mounting options, or read up on sizing before you order.

Mirrors for schools

The manufacturer's school brochure names three places a mirror belongs: hallways, entrance and exit areas, and classrooms.

Mirrors for convenience stores

A convenience store needs two kinds of mirror: a dome mirror or DomeVex wide-view mirror mounted where the clerk can see the whole sales floor from the register, and smaller convex mirror…

Related

You may also like