How to cover a roof with polycarbonate. DIY greenhouse with a gable roof

Polycarbonate is now widely used in the construction industry. The material is produced by melting plastic granules and passing the resulting mass through a special mold - a die. As a result of this technology, sheets are obtained that have a cellular structure, in which several polycarbonate sheets are connected by means of longitudinal stiffeners. Polycarbonate is credited with universal qualities; in the modern construction industry it is the optimal substitute for glass. Let's look at the features of application and installation in this article.

One of the areas of application of this material is the installation of roofs. Material suitable for installation roofing structures the most various forms. It can be a gable, single-pitch polycarbonate roof or a hip roof.
Polycarbonate can be used to cover not only the roof of a living space, because... This is also a suitable option for a terrace. It will make it more comfortable and cozy. The terrace area increases the usable area of ​​the house and at the same time allows you to enjoy a good rest in nature. The roof of the terrace should be a continuation of the architectural ensemble of the main building. Mostly she builds without an attic. Main function terrace roof is to protect the site from bright sun and precipitation. Polycarbonate will cope with this task successfully.

Roofs made of polycarbonate. Photo:

Types of polycarbonate

You can make a polycarbonate roof from two of its varieties:

1. Material monolithic type used for arranging curved and flat shapes. This polycarbonate has significant advantages, the number of which is not inferior to glass. But at the same time, it also has a drawback that prevents its widespread use - it is high cost.
2. Structured polycarbonate, also called cellular, is more affordable in financially and therefore gained great popularity. This material also called light-transmitting plastic. A roof made on its basis will allow you to stay on the terrace in hot weather and not feel discomfort from sun rays.

Advantages of polycarbonate material:

• high thermal insulation rates;
• light weight, which simplifies the installation process;
• elasticity, thanks to which you can independently install arched ceilings without the help of specialists;
• resistance to various chemical influences;
• long period of operation - up to 20 years;
• low flammability - the material is able to restrain the spread of fire in the event of fire;
• ability to preserve operational properties at temperatures from -40ºС to +120ºС.

Which polycarbonate to choose for the roof?

High-quality polycarbonate is produced on the basis of primary granulate. But there are technical specifications, which allow the manufacturer to add secondary raw materials to products. The content of the last component can reach 70% of the total mass of polycarbonate sheets. Such material can be distinguished by its low cost, but at the same time it also has low performance qualities. A visual inspection will help determine quality products:

1. A high-quality sheet has an absolutely smooth surface.
2. If bubbles, inclusions or other defects are observed on the surface of the material, it is not recommended to purchase such polycarbonate.
3. Also, during the selection process, you should take into account the weight of the sheets. Polycarbonate for the roof, the thickness of which is 0.4 cm, should weigh 0.8 kg. The mass of sheets 1 cm thick is 1.7 kg.
4. On sale you can find products marked “light”, which indicates that the weight of the material is 15% less established norm. When working with these sheets, you cannot use standard methods determination of atmospheric loads. The situation is complicated by the fact that not all manufacturers put this label. This material can be distinguished by its low cost.
5. When purchasing, be sure to pay attention to the presence of a protective film. Its function is to protect sheets from the negative effects of ultraviolet rays. If polycarbonate does not have this coating, it will lose its performance characteristics without having served even one year.
6. The thickness of the film should also be taken into account. If this indicator does not exceed 35 microns, the material will last no more than 5 years. With a thickness of 60 microns, the sheets will retain their properties for 10 years.
7. You can determine the thickness of the protective coating by reading the certificate that comes with the product. This is impossible to do visually.

In general, according to quality indicators, the material is divided into 4 categories:

• “premium”, which can last for 20 years;
• “elite” – the service period is about 12 years;
• “optimal” – maintains performance characteristics for 10 years;
• “economical” - will last for 5-8 years.

1. Polycarbonate requires special storage conditions. It should only be kept in a dry room.
2. Before installation, it is recommended to seal the cells with adhesive aluminum tape or sealant. This will help prevent dust and moisture from accumulating.
3. If condensation is found inside the material, it can be removed by blowing the sheets with compressed air.
4. There is no need to remove the protective coating from the surface before installation.
5. Polycarbonate cannot be covered with polyester or metallized film, since the contact of these materials will result in the formation of condensation. As a result, the film and sheets will lose their performance qualities.
6. During installation work, do not step on polycarbonate. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in the formation of cracks on the surface of the material. For movement, special ladders should be installed on the sheathing or rafters.
7. A polycarbonate roof cannot be completely flat. Minimum permissible slope should be 5%.
8. If the material is inserted into frames, the coefficient of linear expansion must be taken into account when designing their size. This indicator is determined based on the thickness of the sheet.
9. When working with material, you may be faced with the need to use not entire sheets, but individual fragments. This problem can be easily solved. Polycarbonate sheets lend themselves well to cutting, welding, gluing, and drilling. A jigsaw is used for cutting, hand saw or a hacksaw, and for forming holes - automatic or hand drill equipped with a metal drill.
10. Polycarbonate makes it possible to install roofs non-standard forms. For this purpose, cold, vacuum and thermal molding methods are used. When transporting and storing the material, mechanical impact should be avoided.

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate roof must be made in such a way that snow cover can be freely removed from its surface. Also, the structure must have sufficient strength. The roof can be given a wide variety of shapes. Initially, the frame is installed on which the sheets are installed. For frame structure use profile elements made of steel, aluminum or polycarbonate.

The latter option has several advantages over the first two materials. Profiled polycarbonate for the roof allows you to install the roof without visible connection areas. Also, this material is airtight, lightweight, high strength. This creates the visual effect of a roof floating above the building.

Polycarbonate profiles are divided into two types: detachable and one-piece. There are cavities inside the polycarbonate material. The sheets should be placed so that the arrangement of the cavities is parallel to the direction of the structure. If this condition ignored, the material may become deformed during operation.

How to cover a roof with polycarbonate with your own hands

For installation you will need:

• boards;
• beams with a cross section of 40-60 mm;
• hammer;
• axe;
• nails, self-tapping screws, screws;
• saw;
• building level;
• screwdriver;
• scotch;
• polycarbonate sheets;
• mastic.

The installation process is performed in the following sequence of actions:

1. The work begins with the installation of the frame structure. For this purpose, you can use one of the three types of profiles described above.
2. The sheets have standard width– 2.10 m. The space between the beams should not be greater than this distance. In order to be able to join several sheets, the gap between the rafters should be calculated so that the junction of the sheets is in the central part of the bar.
3. The next step after installing the rafters is installing the frame. In case of use metal profiles The end sides of the cut sheets must be sealed with tape. This will prevent debris and moisture from getting into the grooves.
4. When using a polycarbonate profile, this measure is not necessary, since these profile elements are initially equipped with a special film. It prevents various contaminants from penetrating into the cells of the sheet that have opened due to pruning.
5. If the profile is collapsible, installation is performed in the following order:

• Initially, the profile parts are attached to the bars with the lower part;
• after which polycarbonate is mounted, on which the upper part of the frame structure is installed.

1. The non-separable type profile is immediately attached to the rafters using self-tapping screws. On these fasteners, after 20-30 cm, there are thermal washers, to which the polycarbonate sheets will be installed.
2. There are two ways to cover a roof with polycarbonate. The first involves a point method, in which fixation is carried out after 30 cm.
3. According to the second, fixing profiles are used. The seam area must be treated with mastic. There is an inscription on the sheets. They should be placed on the frame so that the side with this inscription is directed upward. A compensation space of 5 mm is left between the sheets. Then the profile covers are secured and the plugs are attached.
4. From the edges of the profile elements, limiters are installed, which are fixed with rivets.
5. At the last stage, the side parts and the surface of the sheets are covered with tape. This will help protect the material from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation. Regular tape is suitable for this purpose. The lower part also needs protective coating. In this case, you will need perforated tape, which will prevent insects from entering the cavities.

Rules for cutting and drilling

Cutting sheets into fragments must be done as carefully as possible to avoid damage to the top protective layer. This procedure is carried out through circular saw or jigsaw. It is important to choose the optimal speed. Cutting too slowly will cause chipping. Excessively high speed will lead to overheating and melting of the polymer. Sheets should not vibrate when cutting, this will lead to the appearance of microcracks.

If fastening is carried out using self-tapping screws, you must first prepare holes in the sheets, the diameter of which should be 1-2 mm larger than the size of the fastening elements. To do this, use a drill for non-ferrous metals. Self-tapping screws should not be tightened to the maximum. Sheets will move under temperature changes. A polycarbonate roof for a terrace should be installed taking this condition into account.

Conclusion

Polycarbonate is an innovative material and has been used in the construction field relatively recently. But at the same time it is already actively used. This material is used for various purposes, one of which is the installation of roofs. It has all the properties necessary for a roofing material. Installation of polycarbonate sheets does not require qualified knowledge. You can do this yourself by first reading the instructions.

Roof made of polycarbonate. Video:

The most popular roofing material for gazebos, greenhouses and verandas is cellular polycarbonate. And for good reason, because he copes with this task very well. The polycarbonate roof perfectly transmits light and provides reliable protection from precipitation.

Positive qualities of polycarbonate

It is perhaps difficult to find material that has only positive qualities. There are no perfect products. And we do not consider this reinforced plastic to be an exception to the rule.

From positive qualities The following can be noted:

1. Lightness and strength. Thanks to the cellular structure, even 24 mm of thickness of this material in combination with the lathing (cell size 75x150 cm) cellular polycarbonate can withstand a load of up to 200 kg per 1 m2. This safety margin is quite enough to withstand winter snowfalls and icing.
2. Low thermal conductivity. The honeycomb structure forms cavities filled with air. They create air insulation inside the material. As in double-glazed windows. In addition to this, plastic itself has lower thermal conductivity than glass. This property allows this material to be successfully used for the construction of greenhouses.
3. Good optical properties. Polycarbonate panels can be painted in various colors. And depending on the color, they transmit from 11 to 85% of the sun's rays. In addition to this, it is capable of scattering light. Does not transmit ultraviolet radiation.
4. High degree of safety and impact resistance. Due to its ability to withstand significant impact loads, 200 times higher than the characteristics of glass, this type of plastic is used for the manufacture of protective and armored vandal-proof glass. Even if the material breaks, it does not form sharp fragments. Therefore, it is gladly used for the construction of public transport stops. In addition, polycarbonate also has high fire safety.
5. Large, easy to use sizes. The construction of glass roofs and canopies requires the creation of numerous individual frames. Or use rather tricky hanging mechanisms and fastenings. Otherwise he suffers appearance structures. Unlike glass, cellular plastic does not create such inconvenience. The overall dimensions of polycarbonate sheets can reach 1200 x 105 cm. And this is with 44 kg of weight for a 24 mm sheet thickness.
6. Ease of installation work. Due to its low weight, sufficient strength and large sizes, a team of assistants is not required to install a polycarbonate roof. One master who knows his business is enough.
7. Heat resistance. This material “feels well” at temperatures ranging from -40 to +120 degrees.
8. Reasonable prices.
9. Ease of processing.

Disadvantages of polycarbonate

When choosing this material, you need to take into account the fact that large hail can break through a polycarbonate roof. Although currently manufacturers have learned to combat this problem with the help of a protective film coating.

Another significant drawback is that this plastic has a high coefficient of thermal expansion.

Polycarbonate roof rafters

Despite the fact that polycarbonate is a fairly lightweight material, it is still worth considering and constructing a supporting structure for it. The lathing is made of thin profile. You can use a square with a cross section of 20 x 20 mm or 20 x 40 mm. Usually this is quite enough for the roof to gain the necessary strength.

The arched shape of the roof significantly increases the rigidity of the structure and allows it to withstand more significant loads. This feature is fully exploited when using polycarbonate. A 16 mm sheet of honeycomb plastic, laid on an arched structure with a pitch of 125 cm, with a radius of curvature of 240 cm, does not require the construction of sheathing. Just guides of individual arched supports connected to each other are enough.

When designing rafters for a polycarbonate roof, you need to remember that the slope for the slope should be 45˚ or more. The optimal parameter is the rafter angle of 50˚.

Features of polycarbonate installation

Polycarbonate sheets are attached to the rafters, so their pitch must correspond to the parameters of the sheets.

To prevent dust and other contaminants from accumulating in the polycarbonate cavities, as well as to insulate from cold winter air, the ends of the sheets must be sealed with silicone. If possible, you can use special plugs. In this way, you can obtain excellent sealing and thermal insulation of the material, bringing its performance closer to that of a double-glazed window.

The sheets are attached to the rafters and supporting structures with self-tapping screws and press washers.

When installing, it is worth considering the ability of plastic to expand in heat. Therefore, provisions are made expansion joints. They are performed at the junctions of individual plates and are practically invisible. It is enough to leave a gap of about 5 mm between the sheets. Sometimes such seams do more, as a result of which they also perform a decorative function, creating elegant roof reliefs.

Cutting polycarbonate

We have already noted the fact that the surface of plastic is easily damaged. Therefore, you need to cut the sheets very carefully, making sure that the protective shockproof film remains intact.

A grinder and a jigsaw with a fine-toothed file can handle cutting polycarbonate. When working with a jigsaw, its platform touching the material is glued soft material. This will preserve the surface of the sheet from unwanted damage.

Thanks to your unique properties, cellular polycarbonate is an excellent solution for the manufacture of roofs, canopies and greenhouses. The main thing is to correctly develop the roof design and take into account the characteristics of the material.

Create, live and enjoy every moment. And may your home always remain a place of joy and satisfaction.

Polycarbonate is new building material and began to be used for the manufacture of roofs relatively recently. It is characterized by sufficient strength, transparency, stability and the possibility of quick installation. This is why the material is so popular. Also, its properties make it possible to make roofs of completely unimaginable shapes, and even an inexperienced builder can do this.

Features and characteristics of polycarbonate roofing

Polycarbonate is sheet polymer material, and surpasses many similar materials in its performance characteristics. For example, it is 200 times stronger than glass and 8 times stronger than plexiglass.

Polycarbonate can be of different colors

In addition to strength, its other characteristics are also valuable:

• light weight;
• flexibility;
• ease of processing and installation;
• fire resistance, chemicals and aggressive environment;
• impact resistance;
• long service life.

The scope of application of polycarbonate is quite wide, including it is suitable for roofing.

Polycarbonate is stronger than glass

Polycarbonate for roof

Polycarbonate allows you to increase the functionality of your own home. For example, if desired, you can equip the second floor, which will serve as a pavilion, greenhouse or greenhouse. This allows for rational use of space, which is especially important if the area of ​​the site is too small to realize all your ideas.

Polycarbonate allows you to equip a round roof, which will eliminate the retention of snow and rainwater on it, due to which the service life of such a roof increases many times.

The round roof will not allow snow to linger

Polycarbonate for the roof is a material with a multi-chamber cellular structure, which is formed by several stiffening ribs. This type of material is called honeycomb because it resembles the honeycomb of bees.

There are other types:

This material may have different thickness, and for the manufacture of roofs of various buildings this parameter is very important:

• for a private home, you can use polycarbonate with a thickness of 8 or 16 mm (the second option is suitable for arranging surfaces with a large area, since it can withstand significant loads);
• for canopies, garages or terraces, material with a thickness of 8 mm is suitable;
• greenhouses and canopies can be made from 3.5 and 4 mm polycarbonate.

You can also choose a color, and this parameter affects the performance characteristics of the material:

Video: how to choose a good polycarbonate

Polycarbonate roof for home

A polycarbonate roof is erected only over those rooms that do not require the installation of an insulated roofing pie. In case of residential building this is most often attic spaces, terraces, attics or balconies. The shape of the roof can be absolutely any, since the material is quite flexible and allows the construction of various structures.

Polycarbonate can be used for attic or attic roofs

The peculiarity of a polycarbonate roof for a house is that it does not require the arrangement of a rafter system in its classical sense. In addition to the rafters, profiles are installed and the frame is formed. Polycarbonate profiles can be detachable or non-detachable. They are characterized by increased tightness and strength, low weight, protection from ultraviolet rays, and they can also be selected in a color that matches the main fabric.

The process of installing a polycarbonate roof on a residential building occurs according to the following plan:

1. Installation of rafters. It is recommended to use timber with a cross section of 60*40 mm or 60*80 mm. Install at a distance of 1.01 m if these are central rafters, and 1.04 m between the side rafters.

   To install polycarbonate you need to install profiles

2. Installation of profiles. They need to be attached to the end and connecting profiles. Additionally, it is recommended to fix the limiters. They should be placed at a distance of 2 cm from the edges.

   Sheets can be joined using profiles or sealant

3. End protection. Side surfaces need to be protected from exposure to ultraviolet rays with tape. Moreover top part You can cover it with regular tape, and the bottom one with perforated tape.

   The ends of the polycarbonate must be sealed with tape

4. Laying the material. After installing the frame, the polycarbonate sheets should be mounted directly. This must be done in such a way that the joints are airtight. This will make the roof structure waterproof. Additionally, the seams can be finished with waterproofing mastic.
5. Fastening covers and plugs.

Polycarbonate roof for garage

Separately, polycarbonate roofs for garages are not erected. Most often, a full-fledged structure is constructed from this material, which can have completely different shapes. To install the structure you need:

1. Remove part of the soil to a depth of 30–35 cm.
2. Install the formwork, which is recommended to be reinforced with supports, and then cover the structure with film. Additionally, this structure can be insulated.
3. Make holes for the pillars 1 m deep. The diameter of the wells can be 20 cm. In these holes you need to install pillars, which can be made from asbestos-cement pipes.
4. Now we need to prepare the site for the garage itself. It needs to be covered with sand, and it needs to be moistened and compacted thoroughly. Next, the site should be filled cement mortar, and the pipes also need to be filled. After this, you need to install plates in the pipes and leave the structure to harden for several days.

   Asbestos-cement pillars are suitable for the garage foundation

5. After the concrete has hardened, attach the bottom trim to the plates. To do this, it is recommended to take boards with a cross-section of 15*5 cm. You need to fasten them on an edge, two at a time.
6. Install wall studs.
7. Do top harness.
8. Cover the entire structure with sheets cellular polycarbonate.
9. Install vertical beams for the roof, on which you need to attach rafters and sheathing directly to polycarbonate sheets.
10. Remove the film from the material.

    After installation, the film must be removed from the polycarbonate

Polycarbonate roof for terrace

For the roof of the terrace, you can use lighter polycarbonate, which is much cheaper, which means the whole structure will be democratic.

A polycarbonate roof will add the necessary light to the terrace and protect it from rain

An arched roof is most often built over the terrace. It's very easy to do:

1. Manufacture elements of the rafter system. They can be made of metal or wood. Treat these elements with special compounds to protect them from moisture.
2. Install the rafters on the top frame of the terrace. Self-tapping screws can be used for fastening.
3. Cut the polycarbonate sheets into pieces of the required size.
4. Drill holes in the material for fastening. It is recommended to install them every 30–40 cm. The diameter of the holes should be 3–5 mm larger diameter self-tapping screws This is necessary to ensure that the polycarbonate is not damaged as a result of thermal expansion.

   Do not overtighten screws on polycarbonate

5. Attach the profile to the outer rafter leg and insert the first polycarbonate sheet into it. Remember that they need to be mounted lengthwise, not across. Polycarbonate sheets must be fixed with special galvanized self-tapping screws, and the attachment point must be protected with thermal washers or rubber seals. This must be done, otherwise water will flow into the holes.

   Stiffening ribs should be placed along the rafters

6. The bottom of the material must be sealed with perforated tape, otherwise debris will accumulate in the cavities.

   For the ends you can use regular and perforated tape

Video: rules for installing cellular polycarbonate

Polycarbonate roofing tool

Working with polycarbonate is only possible if you have the following special tools:

1. Circular saw or grinder. This tool can only be used to cut thick polycarbonate. You can make an even cut if you fix the sheet on two fiberboard sheets, and the cut line must exactly coincide with the joint line of the two fiberboard boards. Work can be carried out in a circle on metal with a diameter of 25 cm, and it is recommended to adjust the rotation speed of the disk and set it at 4000 rpm. Before cutting, it is recommended to moisten the polycarbonate sheet with water, and after work, treat the cut area with fine sandpaper.

   To cut polycarbonate you will need a grinder or jigsaw

2. Electric jigsaw. This tool is ideal for cutting polycarbonate if the roof has a complex shape. Moreover, you can work with even the thinnest material; it can be cut several sheets at a time. To do this, you need to lay two boards on the cardboard with a slight gap (no more than 5 mm). Place a sheet of polycarbonate plastic on them and secure. To cut, insert a carbide metal file into the jigsaw, and you need to choose one that has frequent and low teeth.

   Together with a jigsaw, you need to use a file with fine, frequent teeth.

3. Stationery knife. When using this tool, the cut will be perfectly straight, but you won’t be able to make it quickly. And this is the only drawback. To cut a polycarbonate sheet, you need to make a mark with a knife, placing it on a flat surface. Next, follow the markings and make a cut along the stiffener rib. Make a fold along the cut line and cut through the bottom layer of plastic. In the case of cutting monolithic polycarbonate, this procedure can be carried out without bending, just run a knife along the guide.

   It will take a long time to cut polycarbonate with a stationery knife.

4. Hacksaw. This tool is recommended to be used only if there is no other tool at hand and there is no way to get it. If you do it carelessly, you can easily damage the sheet. If, however, there is no other way out, then you need to fix the polycarbonate sheet, make a cut according to the markings made earlier, and then process the edges stationery knife and sandpaper.

   A hacksaw cannot be called the most the best tool for cutting polycarbonate

5. Milling cutters. Use this tool if you want to get an openwork pattern on plastic sheet. With it, you can round corners, cut edges, cut curved elements, and engrave. To do this, you need to fix the polycarbonate sheet on a flat surface, install the cutter in manual machine, insert the roller on top. When cutting out curved shapes, you need to prepare cardboard stencils in advance. Additionally, care must be taken to remove sawdust in a timely manner, as they can damage the material itself. To do this, you can install a fan that will immediately blow them away during operation.

It is strictly forbidden to use pruning shears, guillotine knives, or blades with high teeth. This will not give you the desired result. The cut will be wavy, and it will be very difficult to mount such a sheet. Also, under no circumstances should you make a cut and then break the sheet. This cut will be uneven.

Video: how to cut cellular polycarbonate

Rules for installing a polycarbonate roof

When arranging a roof made of polycarbonate plastic, you need to follow certain rules:

• seams can be sealed exclusively with neutral compounds; polyurea is ideal for this;
• polycarbonate sheets have a special coating against ultraviolet radiation; it must be directed upward for the protection to be effective;
• holes for self-tapping screws can be made not round, but oval, this will ensure thermal play;
• when installing the roof, it is necessary to prevent people from walking on the material;
• It is recommended to pre-paint metal parts white; this will prevent the polycarbonate from heating locally;
• It is necessary to exclude direct contact of polycarbonate plastic with wood and metal; rubber gaskets must be placed between these materials.

Polycarbonate roof slope

There are also features in the arrangement of the sheathing, which can give the roof the required slope. Minimum slope should be 30 degrees. Despite the fact that the material is considered durable, it is still not able to withstand heavy snow loads. The optimal value is 50.

The polycarbonate roof should be as steep as possible

The calculation of the parameter largely depends on the climate of your area. The more snow falls per year, the steeper the roof should be. In this case, an arched structure is considered ideal, as it practically does not retain snow on its surface. And if we take into account the even surface of the material, then even an angle of 30 degrees is sometimes enough.

Features of installing a polycarbonate roof

The service life of a polycarbonate roof depends not only on the material used, but also on the correct installation.

Polycarbonate roof sealing

Sealing seams and ends of polycarbonate is very important stage arrangement of a plastic roof. There are different sealants that can be used when working with polycarbonate:

Mistakes when installing a polycarbonate roof

Despite the ease of installation of polycarbonate sheets, some errors may still occur:

1. The sheathing was chosen incorrectly and did not match the thickness of the polycarbonate. The distance between the rafters must be strictly observed and not be excessively large. The result of this may be deflection of the sheets and their damage.
2. Usage aluminum profiles as carriers. Not all of them are able to cope with such a load. That is why it is necessary to attach the sheets to the rafters.
3. Strong fixation of screws. As a result, when exposed to the sun, the sheet expands and breaks, since there is no reserve for this.
4. No thermal washers or rubber gaskets. Because of this, the polycarbonate plastic sheet may be damaged at the junction.
5. The protective shipping film has not been removed. If this is not done immediately after installation, it will gradually peel off during the operation of the roof and spoil its appearance.

Features of polycarbonate roof operation

Polycarbonate - durable material, but only on condition correct use designs based on it. After installing a polycarbonate roof, you need to ensure its proper care:

1. IN summer period periodically wipe the roof, promptly eliminate structural defects if they appear, and clean from dirt and debris. But under no circumstances should you use abrasive chemicals or powder to clean the surface. You can wash the roof only when the material is not heated by the sun.
2. Periodically adjust the pressure level of the thermal washers.
3. IN winter time remove snow, but under no circumstances scrape it off with hard objects, as this may damage the integrity of the polycarbonate.

It is strictly prohibited to clean the roof surface with products intended for cleaning cars. This also applies to special shampoos and brushes with long handles.

The polycarbonate roof must be cleaned on time

Lifespan of a polycarbonate roof

The average service life of polycarbonate is considered to be 10 years, but it can be significantly increased if you carefully follow the rules:

• storage before installation (this should be done in a well-heated room in the original packaging and protective film, and the packages should not be stacked close to each other);
• transportation (they can only be transported in a lying position in the original packaging, and they must be carefully secured);
• installation;
• operation.

Polycarbonate roof repair

The service life of a polycarbonate roof can be extended if structural defects are promptly corrected and renovation work. They may consist of either replacing the damaged sheet, or eliminating the damaged integrity of the sheet if the crack is minor.

If a leaf has formed small crack or a hole, then you can:

• patch up silicone sealant(it can be matched to the color of the material itself);
• tighten with thermal washers and self-tapping screws.

If the damage is significant, it is worth replacing the damaged sheet with a new one. This must be done in the following sequence:

1. Remove the damaged sheet in such a way as not to damage nearby material.
2. Remove the sealant from the rafters, and then apply a new layer.
3. Lay a new sheet of polycarbonate; you need to make holes for fastenings on it in advance. Secure with self-tapping screws, insulating them with thermal washers.

In the event that the outer sheet needs to be replaced, the operation scheme is almost the same, but the material must be inserted into the limiting profile.

Video: replacing old polycarbonate on the roof

Polycarbonate is a very reliable and practical material that can be used for arranging the roofs of gazebos, greenhouses, terraces, canopies and even residential buildings. And all because of the attractive cost and the ability to do the installation yourself.

First, let's say a few words about polycarbonate. It is a transparent polymer plastic. It is produced from polymer granules using the extrusion method. It has good performance characteristics, which have made its use in construction popular. This is a wide variety of colors, light weight, easy installation, long service life. Polycarbonate is available in two types: monolithic and cellular.

About the material

Monolithic polycarbonate is a transparent sheet of plastic without internal voids. Outwardly it looks like ordinary glass. Has good impact resistance properties. Cellular polycarbonate consists of two panels connected by jumpers. Today, many property owners try to lay polycarbonate themselves. Polycarbonate is mainly used at the border between the external and internal design of a room.

In addition, having high light transmittance, polycarbonate has become an indispensable material in the construction of summer cafes, transport stops, gazebos, greenhouses, terraces, balconies, and the list goes on. How to properly lay polycarbonate on a canopy , You can find out by understanding some questions.

Rules for laying polycarbonate

Working with polycarbonate is quite simple. It attaches easily with other materials different ways. This could be a special glue, special rivets, or a melting method. Let's look at a few rules that will help you learn how to lay polycarbonate on a canopy.

1. At the design stage, correctly calculate required thickness panels. Correctly selected panel thickness will save on the frame in the future.
2. Choose the right light transmittance. In the southern regions, you can select polycarbonate with low light transmittance, while in the northern regions, the use of such a panel will lead to a lack of daytime color.
3. Protect polycarbonate sheets from direct mechanical influences. Remove the protective film after complete installation.
4. You should never over-tighten polycarbonate fasteners.
5. Before starting installation work, it is necessary to keep the material in a dry, warm room for several days.
6. Vapor-proof materials cannot be laid on the surface of polycarbonate. The condensation that forms may damage the mount.
7. When arranging roofs, remember the minimum permissible slope should not be less than 5 degrees.

Installing a canopy with polycarbonate yourself

Once we have a construction plan, a shape has been chosen and the material has been selected, we can begin the installation process. To do this, you need to prepare a tool.

• building level, tape measure;
• drill and metal drills;
• in the manufacture of a metal frame, it is necessary welding machine and professional welder;
• grinder, for cutting products of the required sizes from the profile.

First of all, you need to clear the area for the canopy from all foreign objects and make markings. Determine the places where the poles for the canopy will be installed. To do this, we make a hole for pouring concrete under each load-bearing pillar. Having placed the pillars in the holes, pour concrete. After the concrete has hardened, usually after a couple of days, we begin to install the frame for the canopy. All metal parts must be treated with an anti-corrosion solution, primed, and painted. After drying, the most important process, attaching the polycarbonate, will begin.

There are many ways to lay polycarbonate over a canopy; first, let’s consider the method of laying and fastening with screws. To implement it, only minimal skills are required. We mark the required dimensions on the sheets and carry out cutting using a grinder. This process must be done without removing the protective film. The sheet is mounted on the frame with the protective side up. Typically, a protective film is applied to this side at the factory.

When using an arched structure, polycarbonate sheets can only be bent along the channel line. The polycarbonate is attached to the frame using stainless steel bolts or self-tapping screws, and the fastening spacing will be 35-45 cm. Special thermal washers are often used for fastening. They have a diameter of 30 mm, and a silicone coating that allows the connection to be sealed.

Often used to connect polycarbonate with other materials such as plastic, wood, and metal. special adhesives. So, for connecting polycarbonate to metal, epoxy glue is more suitable for you. Silicone adhesives are used when exposed to a wide range of temperatures from -45 to +125 degrees.

There are many different adhesives that can be used to glue polycarbonate materials, but try not to use adhesives that contain solvents. Such adhesive may damage the polycarbonate.

A little more about installation

Polycarbonate is one of the most convenient materials, which is used for the construction of greenhouses, canopies, canopies and other extensions to the house. This material has a number of positive qualities:

• long service life;
• resistance to damage;
• heat resistance;
• flexibility;
• ability to transmit light;
• ability to retain heat;
• relatively light material;
• very easy to use;
• has an aesthetic appearance.

So that a structure made of this polymer serves you long years, you need to know about the nuances of working with this material.

Polycarbonate comes in two types:

1. Monolithic. This type is a durable organic glass that does not break. It is mainly used for greenhouses and conservatories.
2. Cell phone. It consists of sheets with cavities inside them that increase thermal insulation properties. It is able to block the body of the sun, while having high transparency. This type is used in the manufacture of canopies, canopies, and arches.

Rules for working with polycarbonate:

1. When cutting polycarbonate sheets, it is recommended to use a construction knife if the plate thickness is no more than 8 millimeters. If the polymer is thicker, then you should use circular saw with fine teeth.
2. If the structure is intended for rolling snow, then the sheets should be laid along the slope, and the arched structures should be bent in the direction of the ribs.
3. The sheets must be cut on a hard surface. This will ensure smooth, jagged edges.
4. To drill holes, use an electric drill with special metal drills. The holes must be located between the stiffeners. This will ensure good outlet condensate
5. Polycarbonate sheets must be positioned so that the honeycombs are in a vertical position. If they are placed horizontally, moisture will accumulate in them, which will cause them to bloom. Even if the top of the honeycomb is covered with heat-resistant tape, the holes for fastenings will still let water through, which will accumulate in the horizontal honeycombs. In sheets laid vertically, water will simply roll down, thereby flowing out.
6. With a sheet thickness of 10 millimeters, the distance between fasteners should be no more than 50 centimeters; with a larger plate thickness, the distance can be increased to 80 centimeters.
7. Polycarbonate roof sheathing must also meet a number of conditions. The flatter the roof, the smaller the pitch of the sheathing should be. Since not only rainfall, but also snow can accumulate on it, which can often cause the polycarbonate sheet to push through. The optimal roof angle is fifty degrees. If possible, it is better to use an arch-shaped roof. It has the ability to withstand heavy loads. When making an arch from a polymer 16 mm thick, you don’t need to use lathing at all, but the rafters should be located at a distance of 2 m 30 cm from each other.

But it should also be taken into account that polycarbonate coating has a number of significant disadvantages:

1. Weather precipitation in the form of hail can penetrate a polycarbonate roof, so it is better to choose sheets that are covered with a protective film. They have a higher cost, but this is easily compensated by the lack of costs for replacing individual sheets.
2. Polycarbonate is a plastic, its disadvantage is its high coefficient of thermal expansion.
3. The surface is easily scratched, so the protective film from the sheets should be removed only after all installation work has been completed.

Polycarbonate has become a good replacement for wood, metal and glass. It has a good margin of safety and protection against ultraviolet radiation. It has good plastic properties. Can be used in thermal protection. And the wide variety of colors makes it an indispensable material for designers.

If you have long wanted to make a lean-to canopy, but do not have enough experience, then study our article on how to do it correctly on one's own.

There are many examples where traditional roofing materials cannot be used for the sole reason of opacity to daylight. Previously, in such cases, the translucent roof was made of glass; now a polycarbonate roof is used. This polymer has many advantages over glass, and one of them is the ability to choose the type of polycarbonate.

A polycarbonate canopy is simplest example pitched roof for terrace Source pinterest.co.uk

Types of roofing polycarbonate

If we talk about structure, there are three types of polycarbonate for roofing:

Monolithic. It is a smooth sheet up to 12 mm thick. In the transparent version, it is a complete analogue of sheet glass with a slightly lower transparency coefficient, but much lighter and stronger. Although the thinnest polycarbonate (2-3 mm) is not used for roofing.

Cellular. The structure of this type of polymer is somewhat reminiscent of corrugated cardboard. In the “household” version, cellular polycarbonate consists of two or three thin parallel plates interconnected by many longitudinal stiffeners. The strength of such a material is lower than that of a monolith, but in principle it is sufficient if the frequency of the sheathing corresponds to the angle of the slope of the pitched roof. The fundamental difference is that light passing through polycarbonate is scattered. This slightly reduces the transparency coefficient, although it makes the natural lighting of the space under the roof “softer”, without sharp transitions between the boundaries of light and shadow.

Cellular polycarbonate not only diffuses sunlight, it has good thermal insulation properties Source pinterest.com

Profiled. In cross section, this is a typical type of corrugated sheet, which is made of polycarbonate rather than steel. And in this case, a profile in the form of a rectangular or trapezoidal wave provides the necessary structural strength. There are manufacturers who produce both types roofing materials with the same dimensions, and they are compatible with each other in geometry. They can be used in combination on one roof slope without special technical solutions for waterproofing longitudinal and transverse joints.

Even taking into account the small thickness of the sheet itself, profiled polycarbonate has sufficient rigidity to withstand serious loads Source nn.blizko.ru

If we talk about choosing a specific thickness of sheet or cellular polycarbonate for the roof, it depends on the slope of the slope, regional standards for wind loads and snow pressure, and the frequency of the sheathing. The strength of a roof made of profiled carbonate is regulated by the choice of profile type and the frequency of lathing. But in any case, the design should be carried out by specialists, and the purpose of this article is to become familiar with the general principles of arranging a polycarbonate pitched roof.

On our website you can get acquainted with the most, from construction companies, presented at the exhibition of houses “Low-Rise Country”.

Features of polycarbonate as a roofing material

Cellular polycarbonate can be called the lightest sheet roofing material, which is mounted on a row sheathing. Depending on the thickness of the sheet, 1 m2 weighs from 0.8 kg (4 mm) to 1.7-1.8 kg (10 mm).

Monolithic polycarbonate is heavier for the same sheet thickness: from 4.8 kg to 12 kg. And it can no longer be called easy.

But the low weight of the roofing material can be considered as an advantage only from the point of view of ease of installation - for a supporting structure this is a secondary factor. Compared to snow loads the difference in weight of different coatings does not have a significant effect on rafter system and lathing. For example, Moscow and the region for the most part belong to the III snow region with a standardized load of 180 kg per 1 m 2, and the north of the region belongs to the IV region, for which design pressure snow on the roof is 240 kg/m2.

Snow is the most serious test for a roof. But the supporting structure, not the roofing material, is responsible for strength. Source obustroeno.com

The main difference between polycarbonate and other types of roofing materials is its high coefficient of thermal expansion. And as a general installation principle, take into account that with seasonal temperature fluctuations for each linear meter roofs made of transparent polymer require permission to change linear dimensions 5-6 mm, and for color - 7-8 mm.

Another feature roofing polycarbonate– the mandatory presence of a layer protecting the material itself and objects under the translucent roof from the negative influence of the ultraviolet part sunlight. For monolithic and honeycomb sheet polymer protective layer located on the front part, on the profiled sheet - on both sides.

Preparatory stage

During storage and transportation, the sheets are covered with protective packaging film. Before installation, the film is removed only partially, along the edges of the sheet along the fastening line. It is not recommended to completely remove the film - otherwise you can scratch the surface of the polymer sheet during operation.

The protective film should not be left on a sheet that is exposed to the sun for a long time. It may “stick” to the polymer and will be difficult to remove. Source zavodecoteplic.ru

On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that offer construction services for small architectural forms - gazebos, greenhouses and similar turnkey structures. You can communicate directly with representatives by visiting the “Low-Rise Country” exhibition of houses.

The cellular polycarbonate at the ends is covered with “temporary” tape, which protects the internal channels from the penetration of dust and moisture. This tape is removed before installation. Instead, sealing tape is glued along the upper cut of the panel, and perforated tape is applied along the lower cut.

Note! If the sheet will not fit into any mounting profile, the tapes must be covered with end profiles. The same rules apply for them: the upper end is closed tightly, the lower cut of the profile must be drilled in advance to drain condensate from the internal cavities of the polycarbonate drainage holes with a pitch of 30 cm and a diameter of 2-3 mm.

When installing a polycarbonate roof for a veranda or terrace, all paint work on the wooden supporting structure must be completed. If polycarbonate is used as a canopy for a porch or in a canopy metal frame, then all welding work must be completed before installing the sheets.

To minimize overheating of the supporting structure under a translucent roof, it is recommended to paint it white with fade-resistant paint. Another option is to close the horizontal planes wooden sheathing aluminum tape.

Aluminum profiles are optimal choice for installation of roofing polycarbonate Source ukrsmeta.ua

Fastening monolithic and cellular polycarbonate to the sheathing, connecting the panels to each other and to adjacent surfaces

To attach polycarbonate to the sheathing, holes are drilled in the sheet with a diameter of 3-6 mm larger than the diameter of the self-tapping screw. These holes must be located at least 40 mm from the edge of the sheet. For cellular polycarbonate, it is important that the fastener is located in the middle of the “air” channel and does not fall on the stiffener. During installation, you must ensure that the self-tapping screw enters perpendicular to the surface of the sheet.

For fastening to metal load-bearing structures use self-tapping screws with a drill to wooden frame- wood screws. Both types are used together with a sealing rubber washer, which prevents roof leakage through the fixation points. The fastening pitch is within 40-60 cm.

This is what polycarbonate fasteners for metal look like Source polikrov.by

The fasteners should not be tightened until they stop, so that when the temperature fluctuates, the sheet can move relative to the sheathing.

To join panels together with their side edges, use three types of connecting elements:

clamping bar;

one-piece profile H;

sectional profile.

The last view consists of two profiles:

Nizhny Novgorod. It is attached to the roof rafter or canopy frame.

Upper C-shaped. They press the sheets to be joined together like a “lid.”

The joints are fixed and sealed using sealing rubber gaskets, which are placed in the grooves of the profile. Then the profile is screwed to the frame with a self-tapping screw.

One of the types of split profile Source dorra.by

To securely fix the sheet, its edge must extend into the profile by at least 20 mm.

When attaching a polycarbonate roof to a wall (canopies, awnings, roofs of verandas or attached terraces), an F-shaped profile is used. It is fixed through a hole in the “leg” of the profile: to a wooden wall - with a self-tapping screw, to brick wall- on a dowel or anchor.

The end profile is used not only to cover the internal planes of cellular polycarbonate at the ends. They are also issued side faces roofing to give the roof a finished look.

Important! Cellular polycarbonate sheets in pitched roof positioned so that the stiffeners are directed from top to bottom. And the slope angle of the slope must be at least 5° so that condensation from the internal cavities can drain out.

Video description

Installation of polycarbonate on the roof in the video:

Installation of profiled polycarbonate

If the roof of the house is made of corrugated sheets, then there is no question of which polycarbonate to choose for the terrace roof - profiled panels are best suited for joining in one plane, and even from a design point of view.

Shed roof houses and terrace nearby, covered with polycarbonate, look like a single ensemble Source roomester.ru

The general principles for installing this type of roofing polycarbonate are as follows:

when extending panels in length or when using a combined roof, horizontal joints must lie on the sheathing with overlap top sheet above the bottom not less than 20 cm;

the longitudinal connection of adjacent sheets is made in the form overlap in one wave;

full sealing joints occurs due to the laying of self-adhesive elastic tape;

mounting holes drill in the upper part of the wave with a drill with a diameter of 10 mm;

self-tapping diameter should be equal to 4.8 or 5.5 mm, and the sealing rubber washer should be 24 mm;

fastening pitch– 30-40 cm;

installation of sheets is carried out down up;

to the first and last row of the sheathing the panel is attached to each wave, to the intermediate supports - through the wave.

Examples of the use of polycarbonate in suspended structures

The canopy acts as a gazebo on the site of a country house Source crismatec.com

Polycarbonate roof over the porch Source playpole.ru

The children's sandbox should also have a canopy Source arbitr.spb.ru

Polycarbonate will help protect your car from different manifestations weather source prokoni.ru

You can also protect yourself from the strong sun in the pool Source koffkindom.ru

Video description

Polycarbonate can be used in the construction of different types of canopies, examples in the video:

Conclusion

Although a polycarbonate shed roof has simple design compared to other types of roofing, but its design and installation must be carried out by specialists. Errors during arrangement load-bearing frame or insufficient clearance in the mounting profiles to compensate for thermal expansion will lead to roof failure. Even an incorrectly screwed self-tapping screw can create local stress in the roof, which can cause depressurization of joints or the appearance of a crack in the polymer.