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Acrylic Sheet

10 Frequently Asked Questions about Acrylic Sheets

123 updatedAcrylic sheets are some of the most commonly used plastic materials used in commercial, industrial, and residential construction projects. Often used as a strong replacement for glass, acrylic sheets can be transparent or opaque and they come in a variety of custom colours to match the aesthetic of the structure to which they’re being applied. They work as a solid alternative to glass—which is heavy, expensive, and extremely fragile.

Contrary to glass, acrylic sheets are completely lightweight, affordable, and versatile. They can be cut, resized, or reshaped on the spot to fit specific structural parameters and dimensions whereas glass would need to be transported back and forth on and off the jobsite to make modifications. Naturally, people have a lot of questions for acrylic sheet suppliers in terms of how well their products work, cost, and whether they hold up for long periods of time. We have the answers.

1. What Is Acrylic Used for?

Applications for acrylic sheets can vary from home improvement to sporting equipment, aquariums, military technology, sculptures, fluorescent light fixtures, and so much more. Acrylic sheets are so durable and versatile that they serve a multitude of purposes depending on the specific application in question. When it comes to construction, for instance, acrylic sheets can replace glass windows and skylights. They’re easier and more lightweight to transport and install. Plus, acrylic sheets are not fragile like glass and won’t shatter if dropped. They’re completely scratch-, corrosion-, and UV-resistant.

2. Are Acrylic Sheets Expensive?

Technically, acrylic sheets have a higher upfront cost than traditional glass sheets would. But, it’s still a worthwhile alternative for a number of reasons. As mentioned, acrylic is lightweight, durable, and a lot easier to install than glass. Acrylic and glass also share a lot of similar qualities in the sense that they’re both transparent and they both let in a lot of natural lighting. The reason acrylic costs more is because it’s a lot stronger and more weather-, scratch-, and impact-resistant than glass. Plus, acrylic is likely to last longer than glass and can endure exposure to all kinds of weather and environmental elements without showing signs of degradation, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.

3. Is Acrylic Plexiglas Durable?

Yes, acrylic Plexiglas is incredibly durable, especially compared to glass. It’s also about 50% lighter in weight than glass, which is another reason why it’s the more preferable choice for various applications. Acrylic Plexiglas can be manufactured using a cast or extruded method (free-form). Either way, it’s incredibly durable and the chemical compounds (polymethyl methacrylate) used in the manufacturing process make it shatterproof as well as temperature-, weather-, and impact-resistant. Even if it does sustain damages or breaks, unlike glass, acrylic Plexiglas pieces would have dull edges, and this minimizes the risk of injury. This is an important safety feature that makes acrylic the perfect material for a variety of applications that require human contact and use.

4. What’s the Difference between Acrylic and Plastic?

Contrary to what a lot of people think, acrylic isn’t an alternative to plastic. Actually, it’s a type of plastic material. The main difference is that acrylic is an industrial-grade thermoplastic that’s typically formulated for applications that require the utmost durability, temperature, and impact-resistance. For instance, if you’ve ever watched a hockey game and you see the players body-checking one another into the baseboards, then you’ve seen acrylic plastic in action. The baseboards, which are made of acrylic sheets, are designed to be able to take a hit without cracking in freezing conditions.

5. Is Acrylic Better Than Glass?

Acrylic is the superior alternative material to glass for a number of reasons. As mentioned, acrylic is more durable while weighing half as much as its glass counterparts. This makes for seamless transportation and installation. Accidents and human errors can happen on construction sites. While they’re not ideal occurrences, having versatile materials on hand makes it a lot easier to fix mistakes. If glass gets damaged, it needs to be replaced and this can cause a lot of delays in an industry where time is money. Acrylic is a lot less likely to get damaged. Even if damages do occur, acrylic can be cut down to size and reshaped onsite to make it more suitable for the project.

6. Is Acrylic Stronger Than Plastic?

Acrylic is a type of plastic. In fact, it’s one of the most uniquely durable and versatile types of plastic material currently on the market, which is why it’s used for such a wide range of applications.

7. Is Acrylic Plastic Toxic?

While the final product itself isn’t toxic for human contact and use, the manufacturing process of acrylic plastic can admittedly be harmful to the environment and workers in the facility. Factory workers must wear protective gear to avoid coming into direct contact with acrylic plastic in its liquid form as it can release toxic fumes into the atmosphere. Still, this is nothing compared to the very toxic fumes released by other similar commercial and industrial building materials. Compared to other materials on the market, acrylic actually has a relatively low fume output and in its final form, it’s classified as a non-hazardous material by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

8. Does Acrylic Get Discoloured After Too Much Sun Exposure?

Discolouration isn’t a concern for acrylic plastic because it’s formulated to withstand extensive sun and UV ray exposure. Acrylic plastic is derived from natural gasses, which makes it UV-resistant. This quality is the main reason why acrylic plastic is typically used for skylights, greenhouses, shed windows, and any other structures that need to sustain long-term sun exposure.

9. Is Clear Acrylic Weather-Resistant?

Clear acrylic sheets are incredibly weather-resistant. Like their colour counterparts, there’s absolutely no risk of discolouration due to extensive sun and UV ray exposure. These panels have a general lifespan of about 10+ years and can withstand all kinds of weather conditions including snow storms, heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and more.

10. How Many Different Types of Acrylic Sheets Are There?

There are three types of acrylic sheets currently available on the market:

  • Extruded acrylic sheets
  • Cell cast acrylic sheets
  • Continuous cast acrylic sheets

Acrylic Sheet Distributors in Toronto and the GTA

Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is one of the leading white acrylic sheet distributors and coloured acrylic sheet suppliers in the GTA. Our stockroom is full of a wide assortment of transparent and opaque acrylic plastic sheets that are suitable for a variety of applications. Contact us today to learn more.

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Corrugated Sheets

6 Benefits of Corrugated Plastic for Greenhouses

59 3 602x700 1Corrugated plastic sheets are taking the construction and roofing industries by storm. They’re versatile, lightweight, and affordable alternatives to traditional building materials like glass and can be used for a number of industrial and commercial applications, including as a cover for greenhouses. Given the density and thermoplastic quality of this material, corrugated plastic for greenhouses is an ideal design solution.

Here are six reasons why corrugated plastic sheets work so well for greenhouses and roofing projects.

Perfect Combination of Form and Functionality

Corrugated plastic for roofing and greenhouses has all of the benefits of glass without any of the burden. Appearance-wise, it very closely resembles glass to give you that authentic greenhouse look and feel. The main difference is that it’s a lot more durable, lightweight, and easier to transport and install than glass. This makes corrugated plastic greenhouse and roofing sheets the ideal alternative.

Enhanced Optical Properties

Another way in which corrugated plastic roofing sheets closely resemble glass is that they’re highly photosensitive. That means they can illuminate a space with tons of natural lighting while still maintaining ideal internal temperature control. Not only does this make for better visibility, but it also filters out harmful UV rays from the sun and can help lower your electricity bills.

Low Maintenance Costs

Corrugated plastic sheets for roofing and greenhouses are extremely easy and affordable to maintain. Simply hose them down with water or a gentle cleaning solution to remove any stuck-on stains or dirt. Just be careful what kind of cleaning solutions you’re using as some store-bought brands may contain abrasive chemicals that can strip away the outer protective layer of the plastic.

Water and Weatherproof

Since corrugated plastic sheets are often used for outdoor applications, they’re designed to be able to withstand practically any strong weather conditions to which they’ll inevitably be exposed. This includes intense heat, below freezing temperatures, snow, ice, heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and so much more. While glass is likely to crack or get scratched when exposed to these extreme elements, corrugated plastic roofing sheets can actually hold their own and maintain a solid consistent shape.

Durable and Lightweight

As mentioned, corrugated plastic roofing and greenhouse sheets are incredibly durable yet lightweight, making them easy and affordable to transport onto any jobsite. For extra stability, corrugated plastic twin wall sheets consist of several layers of scratch and abrasion-resistant plastic that hold them together.

Environmentally-Friendly Roofing and Greenhouse Option

Although the production process could use a lot of improvements, corrugated plastic sheets are actually incredibly eco-friendly. They can be reused, recycled, and repurposed for a number of different applications across a variety of industries by simply cutting them down to size or reshaping them depending on the dimensions and specifications of the project.

Corrugated Plastic Sheet Suppliers Near Me

Canada Plastics & Belting is one of the leading suppliers of high-quality corrugated plastic sheets in North America. We provide durable and versatile corrugated plastic sheets for greenhouses, roofing, and a variety of other industrial and commercial applications at unbeatable wholesale prices. Contact us today to learn more.

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PVC Strip

6 Common Myths about PVC Debunked

WhatsApp Image 2021 03 26 at 12.39.28 PMIn recent years, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) has become a common plastic material used for many industrial and commercial applications. As one of the most versatile building materials currently available, PVC is used in the roofing, plumbing, and medical industries to name a few in a variety of different ways. With all of these different applications and uses, it’s only natural for a few myths and misconceptions to emerge over time regarding this incredibly durable and multipurpose material. As experts in the plastic production industry, we’re more than happy to dispel the following six common myths about PVC, so that you can make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing materials for your next professional project.

Myth #1: PVC Can’t Withstand Hot or Cold Temperatures

On the contrary, PVC contains strong chemical compounds that actually enhance its weather, temperature, and UV-resistant capabilities. It’s an all-season material that can withstand strong winds, hail, snow, ice, heavy rain, and practically anything else Mother Nature can throw at it. With the right combination of chemical preservatives and stabilizers, PVC is more than capable of holding its own and maintaining its shape in all kinds of weather conditions. In addition to remaining structurally sound, PVC also has a much longer lifecycle than most other building materials that are traditionally used for the same applications.

Myth #2: PVC Doesn’t Work as a Cool Roofing Product

PVC is specially formulated to be able to tolerate all kinds of weather conditions and temperatures ranging from extreme heat to extreme cold. It’s commonly used for residential and commercial flat roofing applications due to its high UV-resistance, energy efficiency, and durability when faced with a variety of weather conditions. Additionally, PVC reflects up to 80% of the radiant energy to which it’s exposed, and it prevents the formation of heat islands in industrial areas. This reduces the amount of heat your roof absorbs and helps keep your building cooling costs low.

Myth #3: PVC and Vinyl Aren’t the Same

Oftentimes, when people think of PVC, they think of plumbing. Black PVC pipes are certainly one of the most well-known incarnations of this versatile plastic, but that doesn’t mean that’s the only use for it. Despite what most people think, PVC and vinyl are actually one and the same. Although it’s often used in its rigid form for specific applications such as piping, fencing, decking, vinyl siding, and even as a replacement for glass, PVC can also be made flexible for certain applications.

Flexible or vinyl PVC is typically used in various industrial and commercial applications such as roofing, PVC warehouse or strip curtains, swimming pool liners, upholstery, and more. In fact, PVC has so many diverse applications, that it’s currently rated as the third most commonly used polymer resin in the world.

Myth #4: PVC Is Too Expensive

Another common myth or misconception is that PVC is too expensive to produce and purchase when actually, the opposite is true. PVC is one of the most cost-effective polymer products currently on the market. Plus, PVC roofing and piping could actually end up saving you money on your monthly energy bills. PVC is formulated to be energy-efficient. It’s insulated with special coatings that help regulate the temperature of the material according to seasonal weather changes and climates. That means it helps keep your structure warm in the winter and cool in the summer months to prevent your furnace or AC unit from going into overdrive.

This protective coating also prevents the pipes and other PVC materials in your building from freezing and becoming brittle when exposed to below freezing temperatures for long periods of time. As a result, PVC building materials are designed to last for a very long time. In most cases, they can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years with proper care and maintenance. Other building materials such as glass may require more frequent repairs and replacements, and these are costs that can add up tremendously over time. PVC, on the other hand, is cost-effective, lightweight, versatile, and incredibly easy to install and maintain with minimal effort on your part.

Myth #5: Thicker PVC Piping Is Always Better

When it comes to PVC pipes, there are two fittings and thickness levels:

  • Schedule 40, which is distinguished by its white colour
  • Schedule 80, which is distinguished by its grey colour

Schedule 80 is thicker than schedule 40. While a greater thickness level is certainly necessary for certain industrial applications such as chemical processing, deionized water lines, industrial plating, wastewater treatment systems, and chemical drainage, it can also cause water flow issues and backflow in certain systems with which it’s incompatible.

Applications such as pool and spa water systems, residential and commercial irrigation, and potable water all require a much thinner pipe fitting which is provided by schedule 40 pressure systems.

Avoid combining schedule 40 and 80 water pressure systems as this can lead to uneven water flow and perhaps even damage the piping system by putting too much pressure on the changing internal diameter.

Myth #6: PVC Is Worse for the Environment Than Other Materials

This myth may technically have some merit to it, but only under specific circumstances. After carefully examining the PVC production process used by a number of facilities, the EPA determined that PVC that’s “produced by the suspension, mass emulsion/dispersion and solution processes” does in fact emit potentially hazardous pollutants into the air.

As a result, the EPA has created strict rules that are designed to regulate the manufacturing and production processes used to fabricate PVC. When manufacturers adhere to these standards, they can actually significantly minimize the amount of hazardous emissions coming out of their production facilities.

Moreover, when compared to other common building materials that are derived from questionable resources, PVC is the most energy-efficient and long-lasting. Integrating PVC into construction projects ensures longer lasting and more durable structures that require fewer material replacements over time, which reduces waste that typically ends up in landfills.

PVC Strip Curtain Door Distributors in Toronto

You can officially end your search for “PVC strip curtains near me.” Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is one of the leading suppliers and distributors of PVC strip curtain doors and other industrial and commercial building products in Toronto and the GTA. Feel free to contact us if you have any inquiries or visit our showroom to personally peruse our extensive product line.

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Polycarbonate Sheet

3 Different Types of Polycarbonate Sheets for Your Deck or Gazebo

polycarbonate sheet suppliersPolycarbonate is one of the most common building and roofing materials of choice in the construction industry. That’s because it has a lot going for it. In addition to being incredibly durable, flexible, lightweight, and versatile, polycarbonate is also scratch-resistant and fire-retardant. These are all important traits that make polycarbonate an ideal replacement for glass and other building materials traditionally used for decks and gazebos. Keep reading to learn about the different types of polycarbonate roofing panels that you should consider using for your new or existing outdoor structure.

Solid Polycarbonates

Out of all of the varieties of polycarbonate sheets on this list, solid polycarbonates are the most visually plain, but they’re also extremely versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications. Solid polycarbonates come in a variety of colours that can be customized to match the aesthetic of your structure. They’re also available in different thickness levels ranging from 2 mm to 12 mm. Given their aesthetic and practical versatility, solid polycarbonate sheets are ideal for enclosing gazebos, decks, skylights, skywalks, stadium roofs, and other similar commercial or residential structures.

Embossed, Textured, Corrugated Polycarbonates

Embossed, textured, or corrugated polycarbonate sheets are similar in design and application to standard designs. The main difference is that these sheets have very pronounced ribbing that reinforces their durability and impact-resistance to withstand constant exposure to particularly harsh environmental elements. Ideal for greenhouses and gazebos, corrugated polycarbonate sheets transmit about 90% of sunlight and filter out harmful UV rays. Aside from these unique attributes, corrugated polycarbonate sheets are otherwise just as lightweight, flame-retardant, and immune to external damages as their counterparts.

Twin-Wall Polycarbonate Sheets

Also known as multi-wall polycarbonate sheets, this design incorporates the use of multiple layers to further reinforce the strength, durability, stability, and impact resistance capacities of any structures to which they’re added. Multi-wall sheets typically consist of two smooth layers of solid polycarbonate on either side with one or more honeycomb-ribbed sheet sandwiched in between. Given their unparalleled strength, sturdiness, and uncanny resemblance to glass, most polycarbonate twin wall sheet suppliers typically recommend this design for outdoor residential and commercial structures such as decks, gazebos, ATMs, garages, parking structures, walkways, etc. Like their predecessors on this list, twin or multi-wall polycarbonate sheets are fully capable of providing extensive protection against external elements including UV rays, rain, snow, sleet, and any other harsh weather conditions.

They’re also available in a variety of colours, thicknesses, and transparencies according to the specific requirements of each building project.

Polycarbonate Sheet Suppliers in Toronto

You can end your search for “twin-wall sheet distributors” and “polycarbonate sheet suppliers near me” here. Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is one of the foremost providers of top-quality polycarbonate sheets that are perfectly suited for a variety of construction projects in Toronto and the GTA. Whether you’re working on a residential DIY project or you need polycarbonate sheets for a large-scale construction development, we can provide you with the right product to suit your needs. Contact us today.

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PVC Strip

How to Take Care of PVC Strip Curtains at Your Business

PVC CURTAIN 2mm x 8 x 165ft long RibbedFrom order picking to storing and organizing new inventory, continuous movement is one of the biggest constant traits of the supply chain industry. All of that movement often generates a lot of dust, dirt, and contaminants—it’s totally unavoidable. Without proper provisions in place, those contaminants can easily spread from one employee to another. Moreover, they can also be carried into areas that require high levels of sanitation and temperature control.

PVC strip door curtains in warehouses and distribution centers prevent the spread of dust, dirt, contaminants, pathogens, and allergens. But they also require some level of cleaning and maintenance in order to maximize their performance in any facility.

Follow these helpful tips to keep your PVC strip door curtains in tiptop shape and maximize their functionality and longevity in your warehouse or distribution center.

Choose the Appropriate Dimensions for Your Space

PVC strip curtains serve a number of different functions in industrial spaces. In addition to separating different spaces and keeping your facilities well organized, they also have the capacity to increase safety measures, reduce the spread of dirt and contaminants, and maintain certain settings in temperature-controlled areas. To serve these functions properly, it’s important to install PVC curtains that are aptly fitted for the doorframes in which they’re being installed. Start by taking thorough measurements of your doorframes and then cut down the PVC strips to the appropriate size.

Clean Each Side One at a Time

If the purpose of your PVC curtain is to prevent the spread of contaminants, then you should take painstaking measures to clean each side separately and thoroughly. Use a different soft microfiber cloth for cleaning each side. Cleaning both sides with the same cloth or rag defeats the purpose because you’ll just be spreading the contaminants and germs from one side to the other.

Consider Installing Ribbed PVC Strips

Ribbed PVC strip curtains are more durable and impact resistant than their smooth counterparts. Most of the impact from warehouse machinery is absorbed by the ribs that stick out. This helps preserve the core form and function of the curtains and extends their longevity, so that they don’t have to be replaced as often. Ribbed PVC strip curtains are also lightweight and static-resistant, which makes them easier to walk through with minimal effort and without getting caught on or sticking to the curtain on particularly humid days.

Clean PVC Curtains with a Damp Sponge

To prevent unsightly watermarks and remove stuck-on dirt, dust, and grime, be sure to clean your PVC strip curtains with a damp sponge. Depending on how much dirt is caked on your curtains, you can use either the soft or rough side of the sponge to scrub it off. Make sure that the sponge isn’t too wet or soapy as this can leave behind unwanted mildew, which not only looks bad but it can also facilitate the growth of bacteria. Use a new sponge for every cleaning to prevent bacteria and pathogen accumulation.

Wipe from the Top Down

To prevent soap scum buildup and streaks on your freshly cleaned PVC strip curtains, make sure to carefully wipe them from the top down. Avoid wiping them in a circular motion with a damp cloth as this will leave behind unattractive watermarks and spread the dirt and dust around even more. Wiping each strip from the top down in a uniform fashion directs the dirt, dust, and any excess water downward, so that it easily comes off of the curtain rather than drying on it. Next, use a soft dry microfiber cloth to guarantee a completely streak-free clean.

Encourage Careful Use from Your Employees

Although PVC strip curtains are incredibly durable and can withstand all kinds of rough usage in industrial settings, they’re not entirely scratch-resistant and will start to show signs of wear and tear a lot faster if you don’t take good care of them. Encourage your employees to walk or drive through the curtains slowly and carefully. Not only does this ensure your PVC curtains will look newer and cleaner for a longer period of time, but it also prevents potential safety hazards by slowing warehouse and distribution center personnel down.

Put Them Away When Not in Use

The best way to maintain the appearance and performance of your PVC strip curtains is to put them in storage for safekeeping when you’re not using them. Areas that don’t get as much traffic or activity as more commonly used spaces don’t need PVC curtains open at all times, unless temperature and contamination control is required. Storing PVC curtains in these areas is easy. Simply use a roller fitting that’s attached to the ceiling to open and close your PVC strip curtains as needed. You can either manually or automatically roll them up into the ceiling when they’re not in use and roll them back down when you need them.

Use a Soft Towel or Cloth to Dry the Curtains

To prevent streaks, watermarks, and soap scum or residue, be sure to wipe down your PVC strip curtains with a dry microfiber cloth after each cleaning. This will keep them looking fresh, clean, and like new at all times. Maneuver the cloth in the same top to bottom downward direction as the sponge or washcloth you’re using to achieve a smooth and seamless finish.

Inspect Your PVC Curtains Regularly

Depending on how busy your facility gets, you may not always have the time to manually clean your PVC strip curtains. After a while, you may become so accustomed to having them that they just fade into the background. However, if you want to extend the lifespan of your PVC strip curtains, it’s important to make sure they get properly cleaned and are maintained on a regular basis. Schedule some time every week to meticulously inspect your PVC strip curtains for damages such as scratches, tears, and blemishes.

If you don’t have time to inspect and clean them yourself, then see if you can hire a cleaning crew for your facility.

PVC Strip Curtain Door Distributors in the GTA

Your search for “PVC strip curtains near me” ends here.

Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is one of the leading suppliers of PVC strip door curtains for industrial and retail use in Toronto and the GTA. We have a long line of ribbed and smooth PVC strip curtains for warehouses and distribution centers that are easy to clean and maintain. Contact us today to learn more.

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Polycarbonate Sheet

Advantages of Installing Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets for Your Gazebo

Polycarbonate Corrugated PanelsPolycarbonate is quickly becoming one of the most commonly used building materials in the professional and DIY construction industry. Even if you don’t know what polycarbonate is, the chances are very high that you’ve probably seen it used for a number of structures and construction projects over the past few years. Often used as a lightweight and more durable replacement for glass or standard plastic, polycarbonate has a lot of great qualities that make it a worthy contender for a substitute material for gazebo roof panels.

Although it’s making big waves in the residential roofing and construction industry, polycarbonate is most commonly used for outdoor commercial structures such as gazebos, greenhouses, and conservatories. This is because of its inimitable strength (it’s 250 times more durable than glass) and its incredible heat and UV resistance. Keep reading to learn why polycarbonate gazebo roof panels are far superior to standard roofing materials.

What Is Polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate is a combination of groups of thermoplastic polymers that are engineered to bind together to form a strong, solid, yet incredibly flexible sheet or panel. They come in a variety of grading options including transparent, opaque, tinted, mirrored, bulletproof, abrasion-resistant, anti-static, and flame retardant.

The type of polycarbonate you need depends on the specifications of your project or application. Gazebo roofing typically requires transparent or tinted polycarbonate panels to let in sufficient lighting and filter out harmful UV rays. But it also depends on how much sun protection and shade you want your structure to provide.

Twin wall or multiwall polycarbonate sheets are the most suitable for gazebo roofing projects because they’re durable and have a strong impact resistance that allows them to withstand exposure to all kinds of natural outdoor elements as well as human and animal contact. Perfect for glazing, twin wall or multiwall polycarbonate sheets feature multiple layers of thick or thin plastic that have many of the same characteristics of glass with the exception of being more flexible and lightweight.

Why You Should Install Polycarbonate Gazebo Roof Panels

Polycarbonate has a lot of great advantages over glass and standard plastic building materials. Here are a few reasons why polycarbonate is the roofing and glazing material of choice for professional contractors and construction companies.

It’s Easy to Install

Polycarbonate sheets are extremely versatile, lightweight, and flexible. These traits make it the perfect building material for virtually any application and it’s easy to install, too. Glass typically requires multiple cuts and several people to transport and carry it onto the jobsite. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is so lightweight and malleable that it requires less manpower to install and can be reconfigured to suit the specifications of any project.

Virtually Unbreakable

Available in a variety of colour, grading, and thickness options, polycarbonate is an extremely durable glazing material. Unlike glass, it’s completely shatterproof and scratch-resistant. Even if it’s dropped on a jobsite or during the transportation process, it’ll keep its shape without showing any signs of damage.

Mouldable According to Project Needs

Polycarbonate is one of the easiest building materials to work with. It’s very low maintenance and can be reshaped or cut down to size according to the exact measurements your application requires. Whether it’s being used for windows or for gazebo roof panels, polycarbonate can be moulded into virtually any shape without diminishing its durability and impact resistance to protect the structure against strong outdoor elements.

UV Reflective

Another advantage that polycarbonate has over glass is that it reflects UV rays rather than simply absorbing them. This quality ensures ultimate UV protection even on the hottest and sunniest days. Polycarbonate blocks out 100% of UV rays from the sun, but lets in 90% of natural light. Glass panes, on the other hand, are only capable of blocking 25% of harmful UV rays. Hence, polycarbonate is the superior aesthetic and practical material choice for your gazebo roofing needs.

Unparalleled Strength and Impact Resistance

Roofs of any kind are exposed to a variety of environmental elements that can cause serious damages. The whole purpose of a roof is to provide ultimate protection for the things that are inside of it. While glass is certainly a strong material, it doesn’t have nearly the level of strength and impact resistance that polycarbonate has. In fact, glass is far more likely to break under enormous amounts of pressure. All it takes is a strong hailstorm or below freezing temperatures to cause glass to literally crack under pressure. Moreover, all it takes is a tiny crack that spreads across the pane for glass to completely shatter. Another disadvantage of glass is that it’s incredibly expensive and difficult to replace.

Polycarbonate boasts superior strength and impact resistance in a variety of weather-related and circumstantial environmental conditions. It’s a scratch-proof and fully reinforced material that can handle pretty much anything Mother Nature or anyone else has to throw at it.

Polycarbonate Comes in a Variety of Colours

Most polycarbonate gazebo roof panels are made to imitate the appearance of glass, which is why they’re usually transparent. However, polycarbonate panels are completely customizable, so you can get them in any colour or level of transparency you prefer to suit the aesthetic of your structure and your personal taste. If you’re looking for a more unique look to make your structure stand out from others around it, then you can opt for tinted polycarbonate panels.

Polycarbonate Is Naturally Heat-Resistant

Since polycarbonate is constructed of a series of polymers and is double reinforced, it’s completely heat-resistant. Regardless of how hot it gets outside, polycarbonate panels will never feel too hot to touch. Plus, it can be used in conjunction with other flame retardant materials without diminishing its strength. It can also withstand long hours of extreme sun and heat exposure without weakening the material.

Expert Polycarbonate Sheet Suppliers in Toronto and the GTA

If you’re planning on building or renovating a commercial or residential gazebo this summer, then you’ve come to the right place! Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is one of the leading suppliers of high-quality polycarbonate gazebo roof panels across Toronto and the GTA. We have a wide range of polycarbonate sheet options to choose from and our expert staff can help you choose the right product for your project. Contact us today to learn more.

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Polycarbonate Sheet

8 Advantages of Using Polycarbonate Sheets for Greenhouses Instead of Glass

polycarbonate sheet for greenhouseGlass was traditionally the material of choice for covering greenhouses. But as technological advancements and material improvements continue to be made, polycarbonate is slowly but surely replacing the use of glass in many construction mediums. 

Polycarbonate sheet suppliers have been seeing an increase in the demand for multiwall sheets for greenhouses in recent years. That’s because construction companies and DIYers are seeing the great benefits of using polycarbonate sheets for greenhouses instead of glass. After reading through this list, you will, too. 

Polycarbonate Is Easier to Work With

Polycarbonate plastic is incredibly lightweight compared to glass. This makes transportation and installation a lot easier, faster, and more cost-efficient. Less manpower is required to lift and secure polycarbonate greenhouse sheets in place, which means that the job will get done a lot faster with a reduced chance of onsite injuries, mishaps, or damages. 

Better Insulation

Polycarbonate is composed of thermoplastic polymers, which is why it has significantly better heat retention capabilities than glass. Heat and moisture control and retention is an essential feature for greenhouses to ensure the good health of the plants and greenery being stored inside. 

Additionally, polycarbonate also allows for excellent light transmission (about 88%) while blocking out harmful UV rays from the sun that can kill your plants. It can be totally transparent, tinted, or opaque depending on the environmental requirements of the flora in your greenhouse.

It’s Considerably More Cost-Effective

Polycarbonate is lightweight, easy to install, and incredibly low maintenance. Plus, it retains more heat compared to glass and offers far superior performance in terms of light transmission, which lowers your operational costs year-round. As a result of these factors, using polycarbonate sheets for your greenhouse is undoubtedly the most affordable long-term cost-saving solution compared to glass. 

With a combination of the right environmental conditions and excellent care, polycarbonate multiwall sheets for greenhouses can last up to 10 years, whereas glass will start to show signs of wear and tear much sooner than that.

Better UV Protection and Light Distribution

In addition to its excellent light transmittance and heat retention qualities, polycarbonate plastic sheets are also a lot thicker than glass. The thickness facilitates stronger UV protection and more even light and heat distribution throughout the premises. This guarantees that each plant will fully receive and absorb all of the benefits of photosynthesis and nutrients provided by the sun without any of the adverse effects of ultraviolet exposure. 

Since all areas within the greenhouse will receive equal lighting and heat, installing polycarbonate sheets actually reduces the amount of work you have to do year-round. Now you don’t have to reconfigure your plant setup or positioning based on varying lighting and heat conditions throughout the day. 

Incomparable Durability and Ruggedness

Glass is certainly more fragile than polycarbonate sheets for greenhouses and therefore, it must be handled with extra special care at all times to prevent environmental and human-caused damages. The transportation and installation process of glass sheets can be especially harrowing. 

Large glass sheets are extremely heavy to carry and transport from one location to another, which means more manpower is needed to reduce the chance of injury or damaging it. Glass is also high maintenance compared to polycarbonate sheets, so this will increase your upfront and operational costs for your greenhouse. 

The simple fact is that it’s almost impossible to hurt polycarbonate sheets—you’d have to really be trying! Polycarbonate sheets are also weather-resistant, which means they can handle all kinds of harsh environmental conditions. Heavy rains, snow, ice, and even hail are no match for this supremely rugged and durable cover for your greenhouse! Glass, on the other hand, is far more fragile, and susceptible to cracking under pressure or when exposed to extreme force and projectiles.

Shatter and Scratch-Resistant

Since polycarbonate is a type of extra durable plastic meant for outdoor use, it’s also incredibly shatter-resistant. Even the strongest outdoor glass is no match against the strength of polycarbonate sheets for greenhouses. Polycarbonate greenhouses can withstand high pressure and impact from virtually any source including hailstorms, windstorms, and even rocks that may come into contact with them at a high velocity. Aside from coming into contact with unlikely weather elements such as a tornado, polycarbonate greenhouses are virtually indestructible otherwise.

Requires Less Maintenance Than Glass

Polycarbonate has a high chemical resistance rating, but it’s best and easier to clean it with warm soapy water and a microfiber or cotton cloth if possible. Maintenance is super easy and limited. As long as you clean your polycarbonate greenhouse about once a week and dry it immediately with a soft cloth, this should be enough to maintain it and ensure it lasts a long time. Make sure you get rid of all of the moisture during the drying process to prevent water marks. Leaving water marks on the surface of polycarbonate can adversely impact or limit even light and heat transmittance, so this is important. 

Unparalleled Flexibility and Versatility

One of the most noteworthy attributes of using polycarbonate sheets for greenhouses instead of glass is its unparalleled flexibility, versatility, and customizability. Of course, polycarbonate can be used for a number of different industrial and commercial applications that were previously reserved strictly for glass. But when it comes to greenhouses, it serves several specific purposes that are related to enhancing the form, functionality, and performance of the structure itself. 

Polycarbonate is available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and even hues. Additionally, it can be cut down to size and reshaped to fit the exact dimensions of your specific greenhouse structure without even having to leave the property, whereas glass would have to be taken back to manufacturer for reconfiguration, thus prolonging the installation process and costing you more money.

Polycarbonate Sheet Suppliers in Canada

Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is one of the leading suppliers of polycarbonate sheets for greenhouses and other commercial and industrial applications across North America. We pride ourselves on offering top-notch products, unbeatable prices, and excellent customer service, as well as a wide selection of polycarbonate sheets for greenhouses and other structural projects. Contact us today to learn more or to place an order.

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Polycarbonate Sheet

6 Key Advantages of Polycarbonate Roofing Panels

PHOTO 2023 03 22 15 27 04Over the past few years, polycarbonate has gradually become the go-to alternative building material to replace glass and acrylic for a number of reasons. It’s an extremely versatile material that boasts many different qualities that make it suitable for a variety of construction applications, including roofing. Constructed using thermoplastic polymer, polycarbonate roofing panels are completely transparent and durable, which makes them the ideal choice for greenhouses, skyscrapers, and automobiles. Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of polycarbonate gazebo roof panels for your next professional or DIY construction project.

Ease of Construction

Compared to glass, acrylic, shingles, and other common building materials, polycarbonate is extremely easy to work with and install. Not only is it incredibly lightweight, but it’s also durable, capable of withstanding long-term exposure to extreme temperatures, and keeps its shape regardless of weather conditions. Polycarbonate is also very easy to install and can be cut to any shape or size required for the project.

Lightweight Material

One of the main reasons polycarbonate is such a popular replacement choice for glass and acrylic is because of how lightweight it is. Where large glass plates would require multiple workers to carry and install it due to its heavy weight and fragility, polycarbonate is easy to transport to and from jobsites and can easily be carried and installed by a single individual.

Cost-Effective

Working with reputable polycarbonate twin wall sheet suppliers in the GTA guarantees that you’re always going to get a high-quality product for a reasonable price. It’s more cost-effective, durable, and easier to handle than glass. Using polycarbonate for construction projects cuts down on transportation costs, reduces the need for replacing damaged material, and can even increase the speed and productivity of your workforce because it’s so easy to handle.

Durable

No matter how many times polycarbonate is dropped on the floor or scraped against another material or structure, it won’t crack or show signs of damage. It’s built to last and can handle all kinds of heavy inclement weather conditions, which makes it the ideal choice for roofing, windows, and other construction elements.

Excellent Soundproofing

If you’re looking to increase privacy in a commercial or personal space, then polycarbonate roofing and gazebo panels are a great solution. They have all of the aesthetic appeal of glass combined with a superior sound barrier quality that’s also great for professional settings such as conference rooms, offices, and meeting areas.

Ultraviolet Protection

Despite the fact that they’re transparent, polycarbonate panels provide excellent ultraviolet protection without completely filtering out natural sunlight. This quality makes polycarbonate the ideal choice for spaces that require natural lighting to function such as offices, greenhouses, and even your living space.

Polycarbonate Sheet Suppliers in Toronto and the GTA

There’s a reason that Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is regarded as one of the top polycarbonate sheet suppliers in Toronto and the GTA. We have a fully stocked inventory of various polycarbonate sheet colours, sizes, and thicknesses that are ideal for any application. Contact us today to learn more or to visit our showroom.

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PVC Strip

What Are the Uses and Benefits of PVC Strip Door Curtains for Your Business?

PVC strip curtains near meChances are that if you’ve ever been in a retail store, manufacturing plant, or a warehouse, you’ve probably seen or come in contact with a PVC strip door curtain. You might not have thought twice about it at the time, but PVC strip curtains can actually come in handy if you happen to own or work for a manufacturing or distribution business. PVC is a type of industrial or commercial-grade plastic that’s extremely durable and versatile, making it the perfect choice for any type of high-traffic fast-paced environment that involves a lot of maneuvering and transporting of products.

Keep reading to learn more about the different uses and benefits of PVC warehouse strip door curtains.

What Are PVC Strip Door Curtains?

PVC stands for PolyVinyl Chloride. Also plainly referred to as “vinyl” in the plastics industry, PVC has become one of the most commonly used industrial and commercial-grade plastic materials across a wide range of industries and applications, particularly in warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing plants.

How Can PVC Door Strips Benefit Your Business?

PVC strip door curtains are the preferred choice for many sections of the supply chain and retail industry for a number of reasons.
1. They’re completely transparent, which makes it easier to see who or what is coming or going on the other side. This increases workplace safety standards as it minimizes or eliminates the risk of accidents and injuries. PVC has all of the benefits of glass without the fragility or weight, making it the ideal material for dividing different areas on a worksite.
2. PVC strip door curtains are flexible enough to bend in different directions. This makes it easier and more convenient to maneuver through or around them with minimal effort when you’re transporting heavy loads either by hand or using material-handling equipment like a forklift. Large machinery can seamlessly pass through doorways to get to the other side without the driver or a forklift signaler having to push or hold the door open.
3. PVC strip door curtains act as dividers between certain areas of the warehouse. Not only do they provide ample temperature control, but they can also prevent dust, debris, pathogens, bacteria, and other contaminants from entering certain parts of the warehouse or distribution center to maintain fully sanitary conditions at all times.
4. By eliminating the need to stop and check that the coast is clear on the other side before pushing through as you would with an opaque door, PVC curtains increase safety and productivity standards in any work environment. Employees can safely access and maneuver through PVC barriers with great ease.

What Are Some Common Uses for PVC Curtains?

There are a lot of commercial, industrial, and even personal uses for PVC curtains. Here, we’ll focus on the first two to show how companies can take advantage of this innovative technology to save money, increase onsite safety, and boost productivity.

Divide Different Sections of Workplaces

PVC strip curtains are a cost-effective, space efficient, and easy to install solution that can be used to divide different areas throughout your workspace. Production companies often use the same facilities for a variety of different applications. One section might be designated for manufacturing and another might be used for packaging. Then, there might be another section that’s strictly for warehousing and logistics where products are stored and shipped out. If you have a particularly large industrial site, then you might even have a separate shipping and receiving area.

PVC door curtains provide the perfect barriers between all of these different work areas because they separate each section while still allowing for easy visibility and maneuverability on each side.

Cover Up Frequently Used Outdoor Exits and Entrances

High traffic areas like loading docks in warehouses and distribution centers require PVC curtains to make it easier for workers to move more freely. Opening and closing doors may not seem all that difficult in a normal situation. But when you’re constantly moving large product loads and skids back and forth, it can be incredibly tedious and inconvenient. Heavy metal or wood doors just get in the way of completing warehouse tasks quickly and efficiently.

It’s easier to simply be able to walk through a clear and flexible plastic curtain than to have to turn door knobs or push a heavy door every time. Plus, single-piece or strip PVC curtains close automatically behind each person, which keeps pests out and maintains certain temperature levels in each space.

Entrance to Refrigeration Units

Temperature control is an important function of many warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers. Whether you work in the food or building materials industries, certain products need to be kept at a very specific temperature at all times to retain freshness or prevent warping caused by high heat or moisture levels.

Some PVC strip curtain manufacturers offer specific freezer-coated products that prevent cool air from escaping refrigerated areas and warm air from getting in, regardless of how often the doors are opened and closed.

Irregular Spaces That Require Frequent Access

Anyone who has spent time working in a factory or warehouse knows how fast paced the supply chain industry is. Everyone is working on a tight deadline in an effort to ship out products on time and bring in new inventory to fill the shelves.

Some warehouses may have what’s known as dead space that’s not ideal for storing products, but it can be used as a dividing point to separate certain sections from one another. These areas aren’t necessarily fit for installing doorways, but they can benefit from PVC strip curtains to provide a protective barrier. PVC strip curtains can be reformatted or cut to whatever shape and size you need to fill in an irregular space.

PVC Strip Curtain Door Distributors in the GTA

Your search for “PVC strip curtains near me” ends here. Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is one of the leading PVC strip curtain door distributors in Toronto and the GTA. We supply a wide range of PVC products for commercial and industrial use to small, medium, and large companies throughout Ontario. Contact us today to learn more about our products or to place an order.

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Polycarbonate Sheet

Everything You Should Know about Polycarbonate Roofing

polycarbonate-sheet-characteristics-benefitsAs far as roofing materials go, polycarbonate is arguably one of the most cost-effective, lightweight, affordable, and flexible choices available. It’s also more commonly used for roofing than most people think. People typically assume that all roofs are made up of clay, cement, asphalt, wood, or slate. Hardly anyone ever ventures to guess that a roof could consist of polycarbonate roofing panels.

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic that was initially used for greenhouses and conservatories to maintain a temperature-controlled atmosphere so that plants and other living organisms could thrive.

Given its lightweight nature, flexibility, easy production, and affordability, commercial builders started incorporating polycarbonate roofing solutions into their structural designs. In recent years, even residential developers see the value in it and have jumped on the bandwagon. Due to its flexibility and lightweight capabilities, polycarbonate is easier to transport, carry, and install. It’s extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of building applications in addition to roofing.

Why Are Polycarbonate Sheets Preferred for Roofing?

Polycarbonate roofing panels are quickly becoming the top choice for commercial and residential building developers for a number of reasons. Compared to traditional roofing materials, polycarbonate is incredibly lightweight and therefore easier to maneuver, cut down to size, and reshape in whatever way is necessary for the project at hand. It can be modified onsite, which saves builders a lot of time and money. Plus, polycarbonate is fully customizable and comes in a variety of sizes and colours to match the aesthetic of the structure.

How Long Does Polycarbonate Roofing Last?

As long as it’s well-maintained, polycarbonate roofing panels can last anywhere between 10 and 20 years before they need to be replaced. In some cases, the amount and type of external elements they’re exposed to on a regular basis can also make a difference in terms of longevity. Colder climates that get a significant amount of inclement weather throughout the year are more likely to require more frequent replacements. Manufacturers typically offer comprehensive extended warranties for polycarbonate roofing.

What Are the Types of Polycarbonate Roofing Solutions?

There are two types of polycarbonate roofing panels: clear and foam-backed.

Clear polycarbonate roofing solutions are transparent and closely resemble glass. The main difference is that polycarbonate is far more durable, less prone to breaking, and it’s a lot lighter and easier to carry. Polycarbonate is also easier to handle than glass and can often be carried by one person as opposed to multiple people due to the fact that it weighs significantly less. This type of polycarbonate can be completely clear or slightly tinted depending on your lighting and heat retention requirements. It’s commonly used for conservatories, solariums, or greenhouses.

Foam-backed polycarbonate roofing materials are more commonly used for commercial and residential buildings. Its corrugated design makes it resemble a metal roof, but it’s a lot lighter. The foam on the inside of the panel helps insulate structures for better temperature control and to prevent heat or cool air from penetrating the surface.

Polycarbonate Roofing Sheet Suppliers in Toronto

Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. is one of the leading suppliers of polycarbonate roofing panels and sheets in Toronto and the GTA. We have a wide selection of fully customizable polycarbonate roofing solutions for our customers to choose from based on the requirements of their individual projects. Contact us today to learn more or to place an order.