Pros and Cons of Clear Polycarbonate Roof Sheeting

  Even if you're unfamiliar with the pros and cons of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting, you've likely encountered them in various commercial and industrial settings. These translucent roofs are often found in hotel lobbies, shopping malls, and office buildings, typically in blue or bronze hues. Polycarbonate roofs, made from a robust plastic material, are stronger than PVC and can withstand high temperatures while reflecting UV rays. Many reputable contractors choose them for public structures and commercial applications such as conservatories, patios, and decking areas. After reading this guide, you’ll understand:

• The advantages of polycarbonate roofs for commercial property owners

• The potential drawbacks to consider for informed decision-making

Pros

Nearly Indestructible

  One of the primary advantages of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting is its remarkable strength compared to traditional roofing materials. While glass and high-end fiberglass are often selected for their aesthetic appeal in skylights and lobby coverings, polycarbonate roofing offers a similar level of sunlight penetration with significantly enhanced durability.

  Polycarbonate's resilience is the reason it is chosen for bulletproof windows, riot shields, and bank windows, making it an ideal material for withstanding extreme conditions. In the event of a hailstorm, polycarbonate panels may only sustain minor cosmetic damage, highlighting their robust nature.

UV Reflective

  Among the notable pros and cons of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting, its UV reflective capability stands out. Polycarbonate roofs can block 100% of harmful UV rays while allowing up to 90% of natural light to enter, providing excellent natural lighting for offices and commercial properties. When installed correctly, polycarbonate skylights offer both aesthetic and practical benefits. In comparison, traditional glass panes only block about 25% of UV rays. Therefore, choosing polycarbonate roofing is not only a visually appealing option but also a highly practical one.

Variety of Colors

  One of the appealing aspects of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting is the variety of colors available. If you desire a clear, glass-like appearance, polycarbonate materials are widely accessible. However, if you're looking for more character, this is where polycarbonate excels. In addition to mimicking the look of glass, polycarbonate roofs and windows are available in shades such as blue, bronze, opal, silver, and more, depending on the manufacturer. Each option offers the same durability and UV blocking capabilities. Ultimately, your choice will depend on which color best complements the aesthetic of your property.

High Temperature Resistance

  A significant advantage of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting for commercial properties is its high temperature resistance. These roofing materials can endure harsh environments and have a lifespan comparable to standard commercial construction materials, often lasting up to fifty years. Polycarbonate roofs do not bend or break under consistent exposure to heat and cold. Made from reinforced plastic, they are resistant to damage from water pooling. Consequently, polycarbonate roofs maintain their integrity without fading, yellowing, or discoloration over time.

Versatile Application

  One notable pro of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting is its lightweight nature, making it easy to install in a variety of locations. While many property owners opt for polycarbonate windows, these materials also serve as long-lasting and durable roofing solutions. If your budget allows, you could roof your entire commercial property with polycarbonate sheeting. This choice not only offers excellent insulation to reduce utility bills but also provides a roof that can withstand the sun and various weather conditions for up to fifty years or more with proper maintenance.

Cons

Costly

  A major drawback of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting is its high cost. Commercial property owners will find the pricing comparable to metal and architectural shingle roofs. Like single-ply flat roof membranes, polycarbonate roofs offer similar advantages. However, the multiple stages of layering and reinforcement that polycarbonate materials undergo to ensure their long lifespan contribute significantly to their expense.

  Expect to pay between $10 to $16 per square foot, translating to approximately $1,000 to $1,600 per square of roofing. Despite the initial high cost, investing in a polycarbonate roof offers a durable and nearly unbreakable solution, making it a valuable long-term investment.

Prone to Surface Damage and Dents

  When discussing the pros and cons of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting, durability is often highlighted as a key benefit. However, these materials are not immune to cosmetic damage over time. As a type of plastic, polycarbonate roofing can sustain permanent scratches from hailstones or other impacts. Hailstorms can leave cracks that necessitate costly repairs or replacements. While scratch-resistant reinforced polycarbonate can mitigate this issue, it further increases the already high cost of these roofing materials.

Needs Special Cleaning Solution

  A notable disadvantage of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting is its requirement for special cleaning solutions due to its susceptibility to scratches. Using abrasive, alkaline, or solvent-based cleaners can damage the roof by peeling or thinning the surface, ultimately reducing its lifespan and durability. Regular cleaning is essential, especially for highly visible areas like lobbies, so investing in manufacturer-recommended cleaning solutions is necessary to maintain the roof's integrity and appearance.

Not Environmentally Friendly

  Clear polycarbonate roof sheeting has environmental drawbacks due to its manufacturing process. The production involves extreme heat and the use of chemicals like phosgene and chlorine, which can be harmful to human health. This not only poses risks to workers but also contributes to the high cost of the material. Additionally, the artificial nature of polycarbonate makes it less eco-friendly compared to more natural roofing options.

  Polycarbonate roofing is a remarkable option, but there are other roofing solutions that might offer better value in terms of cost and durability. Attiroof specializes in a variety of high-quality roofing tiles, including stone-coated metal roof tiles, synthetic resin tiles, asphalt shingles, and polycarbonate roofing. These options are designed to meet the diverse needs of commercial properties, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.

  Do you have a polycarbonate roof on your property? How has it been performing? Does it provide the benefits mentioned here? Share your experiences with us below!

What are the main advantages of clear polycarbonate roof sheeting?

  Clear polycarbonate roof sheeting offers several benefits, including high impact resistance, UV protection, and excellent natural light transmission. It is virtually unbreakable, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to harsh weather conditions. Additionally, polycarbonate roofing is lightweight, which simplifies installation and reduces structural support requirements.

What are some of the disadvantages of using clear polycarbonate roof sheeting?

  Some disadvantages include its higher cost compared to other roofing materials, susceptibility to surface scratches and dents, and the need for special cleaning solutions to avoid damage. Additionally, the manufacturing process of polycarbonate involves chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and human health.

How does polycarbonate roofing compare to other roofing materials offered by Attiroof?

  Polycarbonate roofing excels in impact resistance and UV protection, making it suitable for applications requiring high durability and natural light. However, other roofing options from Attiroof, such as stone-coated metal roof tiles, synthetic resin tiles, and asphalt shingles, offer unique benefits. Stone-coated metal tiles are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal, synthetic resin tiles provide excellent weather resistance, and asphalt shingles are a cost-effective and versatile solution.

How should I maintain and clean clear polycarbonate roof sheeting?

  To maintain and clean clear polycarbonate roof sheeting, use special cleaning solutions recommended by the manufacturer. Avoid using abrasive materials, alkaline cleaners, or solvents, as these can damage the surface. Regular cleaning is essential, especially in high-visibility areas, to keep the roofing in optimal condition and extend its lifespan.