When you've looked into a range of roofing sheet solutions, you might have noticed that one stands out in terms of popularity: plastic roof sheeting. This is one of the frequent choices for roofing projects. And it's more than ideal for outdoor structures, making a difference to commercial roofing projects and domestic ones.
Get the advantages of this solution and learn all about it in this guide. The details we explore here will ensure your plastic roof sheeting project is a success.
What is Plastic Roof Sheeting?
Plastic roof sheeting is a strong protective layer that's incredibly lightweight. It's easy to install on a range of roofs. Now, this weatherproof solution is an effective shield - and at the same time, it can offer insulation qualities as well.
It'll work with commercial projects, such as the following:
- Industrial warehouses
- Event venues
- Commercial greenhouses
- Public buildings
Yet, they are also compatible with domestic settings, such as:
- Sheds
- Patios
- Domestic roofs
Its popularity is due to its versatility and cost effective installation, its compatibility with many roof types and its range of types. Clear roof sheeting and corrugated ones, flat and UV resistant options, perspex roof sheets and more are just a few examples.
Top Benefits of Using Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets
It's easy to see that many top benefits of using polycarbonate roofing sheets or plastic roof sheeting are available for your project, just by looking at their features. The following benefits come with the installation of these plastic roofing materials.
Resistant to Breakage
Sheets made of polycarbonate have a resistance to breakage that comes with high-performance plastic materials, and this means that any impacts from ice or natural elements are simply deflected.
In their durability, they remain shatter-resistant and are the perfect solution for outdoor spaces, even when unexpected knocks and bumps occur on the material. For example, they have an impact resistance strength that's 250 times greater than glass.
Light in Weight with Low Shipping Expenses
A polycarbonate roof, that is, a plastic roof sheeting, is light in weight - and this offers two benefits. Installation is a simpler process for contractors because the materials are easy to move and transport, align in correct place and generally attach to the roof.
The other advantage is the low shipping expenses that come with this feature. Each lightweight polycarbonate sheet costs less to transport because the weight is low.
Able to Withstand Extreme Temperatures
Each plastic roof sheet is able to withstand extreme temperatures - and this can include heat and cold all due to their excellent thermal insulation properties. For instance, despite strong weather and the extreme, potentially devastating storms or hail that your home may endure, the polycarbonate sheets will hold firm and keep the interior of the home at a good temperature.
Long Lasting and Durable
Due to its high-level resistance to UV rays and its ability to withstand extended exposure to sunlight, it will remain in a good condition over time. Discolouration and damage to structural integrity is greatly minimised due to this resistance, and this makes it an ideal choice compared with other sheets.
For instance, compared with glass sheets for roofing, plastic roofing solutions are ideal for architectural projects and domestic ones due to their resilience and highly durable structure and sustainable benefits - and when sealed with butyl tape they can last much longer, specifically with a life expectancy of between 10 and 30 years.
Allows Natural Light to Pass Through
With the light transmission of such solutions, it's easily possible to keep your home brightly lit. But this is also ideal for greenhouses or sunrooms, since the structure is perfect for allowing natural light to pass through - even as it defends the interior against UV rays. It provides several advantages.
For example, when installed on a greenhouse the plastic roof sheeting's light transmission can help vegetation grow, and when installed on a sunroom roof, the sheeting's transmission of light offers a comfortable environment for those within the room.
4 Examples of Plastic Roof Sheeting
The range of plastic roof sheeting available is extensive, and each option you select suits different requirements.
1. Bronze Tint Sheets for Roofs
This type of plastic roofing sheet is a variant of polycarbonate sheets that come with a bronze tint. They are aesthetically unique compared with clear options or standard colours, but offer functional benefits, such as glare reduction and greater shade.
2. PVC Sheets for Roofs
These are one of the best roofing choices for a greenhouse since it offers specific features. For example, they provide great light transmission and are easy to install because they are lightweight. They are also durable since they are made of polyvinyl chloride.
3. Corrugated Sheets for Roofs
These work well for garages and sheds since they offer a cover and, thus, a high-level protection for the building. Their ridges enhance their durability, and ensure they do not incur damage from external elements - so they keep the interior of the structure well protected.
4. Acrylic Sheets for Roofs
An optimal level of natural light transmission is available with acrylic sheets for roofs, and they also have other features. Bespoke customisation is possible since they can be heat bent and, therefore, fit various angles. These are low-maintenance solutions and very affordable
Practical Application: Installation of Plastic Polycarbonate Sheets
Now, when installing plastic polycarbonate roofing, three key steps are important. As you complete the following steps, you can complete the project safely and without any errors.
1. Prepare and Review the Pitch
You will need to first prepare and review the pitch of the roof. It needs to be a minimum of five degrees, which is the equivalent of a rise that values 88mm for each metre, which will make sure water drainage is not a problem.
It's then important to facilitate ventilation at the peak of the roof, and thus keep heat accumulation to a minimum. It has other benefits as well. For example, it will ensure condensation is also kept to a minimum.
2. Fix the Plastic Roof Sheets
When it comes to fixing the plastic roof sheets, the UV resistant side needs to face upwards. Cut the sheeting using shears, and begin with the lower sheets. As you lay them, consider the overhang. For instance, there should be an overhang of 50mm into the home's gutter.
You will need to oversize the holes if you aim to ensure there is no buckling. For this, you will require specific tools, such as a 10mm drill if you are installing sheets measuring 4.2mm. Drill the holes with the self-cutting screws attached to the drill, but avoid overtightening and drill just enough to ensure no rattling occurs.
3. Install Flashings
You can then install flashings under a gutter or next to a wall, and this will ensure the roof is completely weatherproof. Begin by removing debris from the roof and checking for wear and tear. Measure the flashing with tin snips.
Position the flashing beginning with the lower roof edge, overlapping each flashing piece with a six-inch measurement, and use roofing nails to secure it in place. Seal the edges with roofing cement, which will prevent water seepage.
Final Thoughts
With the versatility of plastic roofing sheet solutions, and their many features, such as light transmission and UV protection, special protective material options durability, you can use them for commercial or domestic purposes. Whether you need to install them on a greenhouse or a commercial building, these solutions will help.
If you want to get extra tips on how you can complete your plastic roof sheeting installation, visit roofstuff.com.au and Evobuild. You'll find a range of ideal solutions, accessories, and tips to help you achieve roofing excellence.
FAQs
What's the best way to stop plastic roofing from slipping?
There's a simple solution. Fit the panels with special screw clips to minimise any movement. These retaining clips should be added to the base of the roof and can work well for conservatories or sheds that feature polycarbonate roofing sheets.
How do you cut plastic roofing sheets?
Place your plastic roofing sheet onto a worktable that is cleared. Secure it with a few clamps, which will prevent movement. Either cut the sheeting with a jigsaw, hand saw or circular saw. We recommend a hand saw if you haven't used power tools before, but if you have more experience with them, power tools are faster.
How can I maintain a plastic roofing sheet?
Using warm water with soap is ideal, and you will not need strong or harsh chemicals. Clean the surface without vigorous scrubbing or cleaning accessories that feature very hard bristles to avoid abrasion and then rinse the soap water solution away with water.
What is the best place to find plastic roofing materials with excellent features?
At roofstuff.com.au you will find an extensive range of plastic roofing materials to make the entire installation process seamless. Each solution has several optimal features, such as light transmission and being lightweight. They are durable and long lasting, and these excellent quality solutions are well priced.