Polycarbonate Roof Sheets

As a result, they're the ideal roofing solution for greenhouses, carports, residential windows on outbuildings, and low-cost conservatory roofing. Polycarbonate roofing solutions are just as transparent as glass but are lightweight, making them easy to install and much more cost-effective.
Here at JJ Roofing Supplies, you can pick up a range of different polycarbonate sheets with different colours and insulation properties. If you’re unsure of where to begin with polycarbonate, get in touch with our friendly team and we'd be happy to help you choose the right product for your upcoming roofing project.

The Different Types of Polycarbonate Roof Sheets

Fundamentally, most plastic roof sheets are the same and different in two respects: the thickness of the sheet and the colour of the plastic. The thicker the sheet the better its insulation properties, though the greater the cost.
Different colours are available for aesthetic and UV protection purposes. The different colours can also be great at blocking out some of the heat that would have otherwise entered the space beneath.
At JJ Roofing Supplies, we make sure that all our products are tested before being stocked. That means they’re regulated for fire safety and energy efficiency.

Benefits of Polycarbonate Roof Sheeting

There are many reasons why polycarbonate roof sheets are as popular as they are. Some of the benefits of using this type of roofing solution include:

Cost-Effective

Polycarbonate sheeting is a cost-effective alternative to all other products of its kind. There are many reasons why polycarbonate roof panels are more affordable than other roofing alternatives, including:

• The raw materials used in polycarbonate sheet production are quite inexpensive compared to other construction materials
• The manufacturing process allows for mass production with consistent quality
• Polycarbonate roofing sheets are lightweight, making transportation more cost-effective

Strong and Durable

The material itself is one of the strongest and most durable plastic composites on the market and is resistant to all types of damage, including impact and weather damage. So, whether it's snowing, raining, or abnormally windy outside, you can rest assured that your indoor space will not be compromised.
And if you want your roof to be extra strong and durable, you can also opt for the stronger multiwall polycarbonate sheets. A standard multiwall polycarbonate sheet is virtually unbreakable and provides almost 60% more thermal insulation compared to glass roofs.

Lightweight & Easy to Install

Despite its strength and durability, poly roof sheets are extremely lightweight, around 5x lighter than glass alternatives. As a result, it's easy to carry around and install. In fact, most people install the sheets themselves as doing so doesn't require the use of any specialised tools or equipment. This makes polycarbonate panels a top roofing choice for covering a conservatory, greenhouse, shed, or similar outbuilding.

Requires Minimal Maintenance

Once you’ve installed the polycarbonate roofing sheets, given the pitch is correct, the roof will be mostly self-cleaning as water runoff will clear away dirt and debris before it starts to build up. That said, we still advise that you carry out regular inspections of your roofing sheets and make sure that they are clean. That's the best way to prolong their lifespan.

Let’s in a Lot of Natural Light

Much like glass, polycarbonate sheeting has high light transmission, which makes it the ideal roofing solution for domestic spaces. Poly sheets are also great at protecting against UV light, which is why they're a good choice for exterior awnings where you and the family might spend time outside under the sun.

FAQs About Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets

What Thickness of Polycarbonate Should I Use for the Roof?

That would depend on your needs and preferences. Generally speaking, the thicker the sheet, the better thermal and sound insulation it will provide. However, the thickness of the sheet will also bump up its price.
For instance, if you're looking to provide basic cover for walkways around your home, you don't need super thick poly sheets. However, if you're looking to put a roof over a living space, such as a conservatory, then it's a good idea to invest in a thicker roofing sheet.

How Long Do Polycarbonate Roofs Last?

Well-installed and maintained polycarbonate roofing sheets can last anywhere between 10 and 20 years. Then, you can start to think about replacing them as they'll naturally start to lose their shine due to UV exposure and weathering. If you'd like to prolong the lifespan of your polycarbonate roof panels beyond what is deemed average, you should:

• Make sure that they are properly installed
• Invest in a polycarbonate roof kit and carry out regular inspections/repairs
• Keep them clean and well-maintained

Can You Walk on Polycarbonate Sheets?

Though polycarbonate sheets are strong and durable, they are not designed to support the weight of a person. So, it's best to avoid walking on them. If you do walk on them, the sheet can crack, or worse, you may fall through it and injure yourself.

Does it Get Hot Under a Polycarbonate Sheet Roof?

That would depend on how hot it is outside, but generally speaking, polycarbonate roofing sheets are excellent at blocking out the heat during the warmer summer months. As a result, the living or working area beneath the polycarbonate sheet will remain cool. If you want to make sure that your poly sheets block out as much heat as possible, opt for thicker sheets.

Do Polycarbonate Roofs Leak?

If they are installed properly, your polycarbonate roof will withstand rain and shouldn't leak any water. However, over time, as the seal and the panels themselves start to wear down, water may start to find its way to the inside of your property. The most common areas where water typically leaks through is either between the panels or the roof frame.