Positive qualities of polycarbonate
Perhaps it is difficult to find a material that has only positive qualities. There are no ideal products. And we do not consider this reinforced plastic to exceptions from the rules.
Of the positive qualities, the following can be noted:
- Easy and strength. Thanks to the cellular structure, even 24 mm thickness of this material in a combination with the crate (cell size 75x150 cm) Cellular polycarbonate can withstand a load of up to 200 kg per 1 m2. This durability is quite enough to withstand winter snowfall and icing.
- Low thermal conductivity. The cell 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 a smaller thermal conductivity than glass. This property allows us to successfully use this material for the construction of greenhouses.
- Good optical properties. Polycarbonate panels can be painted in various colors. And depending on the color, it is passed from 11 to 85% of sun rays. In addition to this, it is able to disperse light. Does not miss ultraviolet.
- High security and impact strength. Due to the ability to withstand essential shock loads, 200 times greater than the characteristics of the glass, this type of plastic is used to make protective and armored anti-vandal glasses. Even if the material is broken, it does not form sharp fragments. Therefore, it is happy to use for the construction of urban transport stops. In addition, polycarbonate has both high fire safety.
- Large, easy-to-use dimensions. For the construction of glass roofs and canopies, numerous separate frames are required. Or apply pretty cunning suspended mechanisms and fasteners. Otherwise, the appearance of the facility suffers. Unlike glass, cell plastic does not create such inconvenience. The overall dimensions of polycarbonate sheets can reach 1200 x 105 cm. And this is at 44 kg of weight for the 24 mlymeter sheet thickness.
- Ease of installation work. Thanks to low weight, sufficient strength and big sizes, for mounting a polycarbonate roof does not require a brigade of assistants. One master who knows his business is enough.
- Heat resistance. This material "well feels" at temperatures ranging from -40 to +120 degrees.
- Democratic prices.
- Easy processing.
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Disadvantages of polycarbonate
Choosing this material, it is necessary to take into account the fact that large degrees can break through the polycarbonate roof. Although currently the manufacturers have learned to fight this problem with the help of a protective film cover.Another significant disadvantage is that this plastic has a high value of the temperature expansion coefficient.
The next minus one can assume that the surface of the plastic is easily scratched.
Polycarbonate roof rafters
Despite the fact that polycarbonate is quite lightweight, yet it is worth thinking for it and build a carrying structure. The lamp is made of a thin profile. You can use a square cross section of 20 x 20mm or 20 x 40 mm. This is usually enough to ensure that the roof gains the necessary strength.
The arched roof shape significantly increases the stiffness of the structure and allows you to withstand more substantial loads. This feature is fully used when using polycarbonate. The 16-millimeter sheet of cellular plastic, laid on an arched structure, having a pitch 125 cm, with a radius of rounding in 240 cm, does not require the structure of the crate. Just only guide individual arched supports related to each other.
When designing rafters for the roof of polycarbonate, you must remember that the slope for the skate must be 45˚ or more. The optimal parameter is the angle of inclination of the rafted 50˚.
FEATURES OF POLYKARBONATA MAINTAGE
Polycarbonate sheets are attached to rafters, so their step must match the parameters of the sheets.
In order for the cavities of the polycarbonate, dust and other contaminants are accumulated, as well as for insulation from cold winter air, the ends of the sheets need to be seal with silicone. If possible, you can use special plugs. Thus, it is possible to obtain remarkable sealing and thermal insulation of the material, bringing its indicators to the glass.
The sheets and supporting structures are fastened with self-draws and press-piles.
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When installing it is worth considering the ability of plastic to expand with heat. Therefore, deformation seams are envisaged. They are performed in places of docking individual plates and practically invisible. It is enough to leave a gap between the sheets about 5 mm. Sometimes such seds make more, as a result of which they 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, it is necessary to cut the sheets very carefully, following the protective shockproof film remains the whole.
With a sharp polycarbonate, the Bulgarian and a jigsaw with a fine-skinned sawmill copier. When working with the jigsaw, its platform relating to the material is hosted by a soft material. This will save the surface of the sheet from unwanted damage.
Due to its unique properties, cellular polycarbonate is an excellent solution in the manufacture of roofs, canopies and greenhouses. The main thing is to competently develop the design of the roof and take into account the characteristics of the material.
Create, live and enjoy every moment. And let your home always stay joy and satisfaction.