The Advantages of Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

Polycarbonate sheets have become a popular choice for many roofing applications due to their numerous benefits. If you're considering using polycarbonate sheets for your roofing project, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Introduction to Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

Polycarbonate sheets are a type of thermoplastic material that is lightweight, durable, and impact-resistant. They are commonly used in roofing applications because of their ability to transmit light while providing excellent thermal insulation. Polycarbonate sheets can be customised to fit different shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option for roofing projects.

Advantages of Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

Polycarbonate roofing sheets offer several advantages over many other roofing materials:

• Durability and Impact Resistance: Polycarbonate sheets are virtually unbreakable and can withstand heavy impacts without cracking or breaking. This makes them ideal for areas with high winds or potential impact damage, such as hail.
• Light Transmission and Energy Efficiency: Polycarbonate sheets allow natural light to enter your building, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. They also provide excellent thermal insulation, reducing heating and cooling costs. This makes them a great option for environmentally conscious individuals and businesses.
• UV Protection and Weather Resistance: Polycarbonate sheets are UV-resistant, protecting your building from harmful UV rays. They are also weather-resistant, withstanding extreme temperatures, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. This makes them an ideal option for areas with extreme weather conditions.
• Easy to Install and Maintain: Polycarbonate sheets are easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective option for roofing projects. They are also lightweight, which reduces the structural load on your building.
• Versatility and Customisation Options: Polycarbonate sheets can be customised to fit different shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option for roofing projects. They are available in a variety of colours, allowing you to choose the best option to match your building's design.

Thickness of Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

The thickness of polycarbonate sheets is an important factor to consider when selecting the appropriate material for your roofing project. The thickness of the sheet will determine its strength, impact resistance, and thermal insulation properties.

For roofing applications, the recommended thickness of polycarbonate sheets is typically between 4mm and 55mm, depending on the specific application and the load requirements. Thicker sheets provide better insulation and impact resistance, but they may be more expensive and heavier.

How to cut Polycarbonate Sheets

Cutting polycarbonate sheets requires special tools and techniques to avoid cracking or damaging the material. The best tools for cutting polycarbonate sheets are circular saws with fine-tooth blades or jigsaws with a down-cut blade.

When cutting polycarbonate sheets, it's essential to wear protective gear such as goggles, gloves, and a mask to prevent inhalation of dust and debris.

Waterproofing properties of Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

Polycarbonate roofing sheets are waterproof and can withstand heavy rainfall without leaking. They have a low water absorption rate, which means that they won't expand or contract when exposed to moisture. This makes them ideal for areas with high humidity or heavy rainfall.

Yellowing of Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

One potential downside of using polycarbonate roofing sheets is that they may yellow over time when exposed to UV rays. This can affect the appearance of the roof and reduce the amount of light transmitted into the building.

However, Brett Martin polycarbonate sheets are manufactured with UV protection, which provides resistance against the effects of UV weathering and greatly reduces the likelihood of yellowing. It's essential to choose high-quality polycarbonate sheets with UV protection to ensure that they maintain their appearance over time.

What not to use on Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

It's important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on polycarbonate roofing sheets, as these can cause damage to the material. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, abrasive scrubbers, or pressure washers with high-pressure settings.

Instead, use a mild soap and warm water to clean polycarbonate roofing sheets. Avoid using any cleaning solutions that contain alcohol, bleach, or solvents.

Multiwall Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets for Outdoor Use

Multiwall polycarbonate sheets are a popular option for outdoor roofing applications. They are designed to provide excellent thermal insulation, impact resistance, and light transmission properties.

Multiwall polycarbonate sheets consist of multiple layers of polycarbonate material, which are separated by air pockets. This design provides additional strength and insulation properties compared to single-layer polycarbonate sheets.

Life Expectancy of Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

The life expectancy of polycarbonate roofing sheets depends on several factors, including the thickness of the sheet, the quality of the material, and the specific application.

High-quality polycarbonate sheets can last up to 25 years or more when properly installed and maintained. It's essential to choose a reputable supplier and ensure that the sheets are installed correctly to maximise their lifespan.

Sealing the Ends of Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

Sealing the ends of polycarbonate roofing sheets can help to prevent moisture from entering the material and reduce the risk of damage or discoloration. It's essential to use a sealant that is compatible with polycarbonate material and that can withstand exposure to UV rays and weathering.

Best Plastic Sheet for Outdoor Use

Polycarbonate sheets are an excellent option for outdoor use due to their durability, impact resistance, and weather resistance properties. Other plastic sheet materials that are suitable for outdoor use include acrylic, PVC, and PETG.

However, polycarbonate sheets offer the best combination of properties for outdoor roofing applications. They are available in a range of thicknesses and customisation options, making them a versatile and reliable option for any outdoor roofing project.

Conclusion:

Polycarbonate roofing sheets offer numerous advantages for roofing applications, including durability, energy efficiency, and customisation options. When choosing polycarbonate sheets for your roofing project, consider the specific application, load requirements, and desired thickness to ensure that you select the appropriate material. It's also important to choose high-quality polycarbonate sheets with UV protection and proper installation to maximise their lifespan.

To find out more visit our polycarbonate sheet FAQs for more information.