Polycarbonate roofing panels have been around in the construction industry for decades, but have only recently started gaining popularity for various design and building applications such as greenhouse structures. The reason for its slow ascent into mainstream uses for gazebo roofing is because most people like to stick to old faithful: glass. What they don’t realize is that there are a lot of great benefits to using greenhouse polycarbonate sheets instead. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation going around about the efficacy of greenhouse polycarbonate sheets and how they work. To help clear the air, here are some of the biggest myths and misconceptions that you should know about so you can make a more informed decision.
Myth #1: Polycarbonate Roofing Breaks Under Pressure
On the contrary, polycarbonate roofing panels are built to withstand extreme weather and environmental conditions such as heavy winds and storms. It’s often associated with glass because both materials are transparent and have a similar appearance. But the reality is the polycarbonate roofing panels are about 200 times stronger and more resilient than glass and can be exposed to all kinds of natural elements for long periods of time without sustaining any damages.
Myth #2: Polycarbonate Can’t Be Cut or Reshaped
Polycarbonate is actually one of the most flexible building materials on the market today. It can be cut and reshaped according to the dimensions and aesthetic and architectural demands of any construction project without so much as a tiny crack.
Myth #3: Polycarbonate Turns Yellow Over Time
Discolouration due to prolonged exposure to natural elements is a common concern when it comes to using transparent building materials for various construction projects. But polycarbonate roofing panels aren’t your ordinary building materials. Polycarbonate sheets contain properties that protect them against harmful UV rays of the sun and prevent discolouration and yellowing. This helps them retain a clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance for a long time.
Myth #4: Polycarbonate Is Infinitely Flexible
While it’s true that polycarbonate is a lot more durable and flexible than glass, it still has its limits just like any other building material. Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material, which means it needs to be heated to a certain temperature before it can safely be bent. Several methods can be used in this process including a hair dryer, a professional bending device, a heating element or convection oven, to name a few. Cold-bending it could cause it to crack.
Myth #5: Polycarbonate Sheets Have a Short Lifespan
As long as proper installation and maintenance instructions are carefully followed, polycarbonate gazebo roof panels can last upwards of 10 years. The benefit is that polycarbonate is a lot more lightweight and easier to install and maintain than glass, making it the ideal alternative material.
Myth #6: Polycarbonate Doesn’t Transmit Enough Natural Light
Actually, excellent light transmission and distribution is one of the biggest and best assets that makes polycarbonate the perfect roofing material for gazebos, greenhouses, skylights, skyscrapers, and any other structure that requires an abundance of natural lighting. Polycarbonate also has innate properties that filter out harmful UV rays to protect the interior of your property.
Polycarbonate Sheet Suppliers in Toronto and the GTA
When you need a steady supply of high-quality polycarbonate roofing panels for your gazebo, greenhouse, or similar structure, turn to the experts at Canada Plastics & Belting Inc. We provide a wide range of polycarbonate products from corrugated to solid available in an array of sizes and transparency options. Custom cutting services are also available. Contact us today to learn more.