Polycarbonate is a flexible and robust thermoplastic material whose lightweight properties and capability to withstand extreme temperatures make it ideal for use in roofing. In most cases, polycarbonate roofs are not used for the whole house. They work better for structures like conservatories, patios, sheds, and garage. The material is also commonly used in warehouses and as pool covering. It is unbreakable, having 250 times more strength than float glass.
Polycarbonate sheet suppliers in the UK stock a variety of polycarbonates. All products are weather resistant, high impact resistant and durable, but they have characteristics that set them apart. Some sheets have, for example, UV protection to prevent damage from sunlight when used in outdoor applications. The different sheet types include:
Solid sheets
These plastic sheets are thick and unbreakable. They have UV protection, but even in their thickness, they allow up to 90% of sunlight to pass through. Solid sheets are ideal for canopy roofing or in applications like industrial sheets and lamp boxes. Solid sheets have high impact strength, being about ten times stronger than toughened glass. They are lightweight, making them easy to install. Due to their low K-value, solid sheets lose little heat and can serve cold summers without the need for air conditioning.
Multiwall sheets
Many people who like to install a polycarbonate roof in a particular area of their homes use multiwall sheets. They are also ideal for use in parking spaces, stadiums, swimming pools, and industrial areas. Multiwall sheets serve many purposes and offer protection from UV radiation. They have a high fire-resistance, providing an additional layer of protection for your belongings. Some variations will be made with thermal and sound insulation.
Corrugated sheets
Corrugated polycarbonate sheets provide the user with multiple advantages, including foldability that other types do not have. Since corrugated sheets can bend, you can have them in your desired designs. Corrugated sheets are ideal for oddly shaped structures or roofing systems that will need to be layered.
Lexan modular panels
These panels have different films and sheets made of polycarbonate. They come in a variety of colors, with each side installed with UV protection. You can get them in 25mm, 20mm, and 16mm thicknesses. Most manufacturers will sell modular panels with warranties of up to ten years, assuring you of durability. Modular panels are also fire resistant. They have high amounts of resins that lend to this trait and make them non-propagating. They also have an oxygen index of 25, which makes them highly rated by regulatory bodies.
Polycarbonate can withstand so much force that it is almost bullet resistant. There are varieties of the material that are used in police shields. As a roofing material, the most attractive trait is the ease of transport because they are lightweight. Polycarbonate sheets also last for many years without discoloring or fading. The only downside of this roofing material is that it is not scratch resistant. You must exercise caution to avoid damaging them during installation. Work with the pros to ensure that your roof will be installed properly.