Plastic Corrugated Sheets - Everything You Need To Know

Discover the versatility and benefits of clear corrugated plastic in our detailed overview. Understand its high light transmission, impact resistance, and UV protection properties that make it an ideal choice for numerous applications, from plastic roofing to DIY projects.

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Overview of Clear Corrugated Plastic

Clear corrugated plastic, as a clear roofing material, it’s versatile and robust, has become a popular choice for a variety of applications. This material, often made from polycarbonate, offers a unique combination of properties that make it an ideal choice for many projects. From its impressive light transmission capabilities to its high impact resistance and UV protection, clear corrugated plastic provides a range of benefits that make it stand out from other materials like PVC or PMMA, fiberglass.

Clear corrugated plastic, also known as corrugated polycarbonate, is used in a variety of applications. It’s often seen in roofing projects, DIY endeavors, and even in commercial settings. The material’s versatility is one of its key strengths, allowing it to be used in a variety of ways that other materials like clear plastic or PVC might not be suited for.

In this guide, we will delve into the world of clear corrugated plastic. We’ll explore its properties, benefits, and uses, providing a comprehensive overview of this versatile material. Whether you’re considering using clear corrugated plastic for a project or simply want to learn more about it, this guide will provide the information you need.

Understanding Clear Corrugated Plastic

Clear corrugated plastic is a unique material with a host of beneficial properties. It’s a type of polycarbonate sheet that has been shaped into a wave-like pattern, giving it a corrugated structure. This corrugation isn’t just for aesthetics; it adds strength and flexibility to the material, making it ancoideal choice for applications that require durability and impact resistance, such as roofing panels.

One of the standout properties of corrugated polycarbonate plastic is its high light transmission. This means that it allows a significant amount of natural light to pass through, making it an excellent choice for applications where light is desired, such as skylights, greenhouses, or carports. This is a property where clear corrugated plastic outshines other materials like PVC or clear plastic, which may not offer the same level of light transmission.

In addition to its light transmission properties, clear corrugated plastic also offers excellent UV resistant. This means that while it allows light to pass through, it blocks harmful UV rays, protecting anything underneath it.

Clear corrugated plastic is also known for its impact resistance. This is a critical property for many applications, as it means the material can withstand impacts that could cause damage to other materials. Whether it’s hail for a roof or a stray ball for a greenhouse, clear corrugated plastic can take the hit and keep on performing.

In the next sections, we’ll delve deeper into the different types of clear corrugated plastic, their applications, and the benefits they offer. Whether you’re considering using clear corrugated plastic, corrugated polycarbonate, PVC, or clear plastic for your next project, understanding these materials is the first step to making an informed decision.

key benefits of polycarbonate corrugated sheets for roofing

Polycarbonate corrugated roof sheets are a popular choice for roofing projects due to their affordability, ease of installation, and versatility. Its self-supporting structure requires less glazing bars and save the load of the pergola. Whether you are planning on building a porch polycarbonate roofing or looking to re-roof your shed, corrugated polycarbonate sheets provide an excellent balance of functionality and aesthetics for various roofing projects.

In this article, we are going to discuss polycarbonate corrugated sheet and its types, cutting, installation and maintenance, everything you want to know about polycarbonate corrugated roofing sheets.

Benefits of corrugated roofing sheets:

Cost Friendly, cheapest roofing options
Easy to install
Will not rust or corrode over time
Light weight, less structural weight compared to flat polycarbonate sheet roofing
Protects against UV radiation
Aesthetic appearance, glass-like roofing

Specification of corrugated polycarbonate sheets

Standard Thickness: 0.8 mm, 1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm. Surface: UV treated Colors: clear, opal, green, blue, bronze or as required. Working temperature: -40 to 120 °C. We offer Cut to size service for corrugated polycarbonate roofing.

Main Application of corrugated roofing sheets

Polycarbonate patio panels
Pergola Roofing
Greenhouse glazing
Parking shelters
Partition walls
Porches
DIY Jobs

Different Types of Clear Corrugated Plastic

Clear corrugated plastic comes in various forms, each with its unique set of properties and benefits. The versatility of this material is one of its most significant advantages, allowing it to be used in a wide range of applications. Let’s delve into some of the most common types of clear corrugated plastic.

Coating options (UV protection, anti-drip, colors)

• Clear Corrugated Sheets: These provide 90% light transmission to your veranda Roof, allowing ample sunlight to brighten your pergola.

• Tinted Grey Corrugated Sheets: Offering a similar transparent appearance, they block a greater amount of sunlight and heat, achieving a 40% light transmission, providing a balance of light and shade.

• Silver Grey Polycarbonate Corrugated Sheets: With a light transmission of 20%, these sheets are ideal for customers seeking reduced light exposure from their pergola roof.

Our shed roofing materials are all treated with a UV coating, which is a 0.05mm UV polycarbonate layer co-extruded onto the surface of the roofing sheets. This UV coating effectively blocks 99% of harmful UV rays, ensuring that the pergola roofing panels age at a much slower rate and providing valuable protection from these harmful rays.

Polycarbonate Sheets

These are one of the most prevalent types of clear corrugated plastic. Known for their high impact resistance and exceptional light transmission, polycarbonate sheets are an excellent choice for applications such as roofing panels and other outdoor uses. The durability of these sheets, often referred to as corrugated polycarbonate sheets, surpasses many other building materials, including acrylic and metal roof options. These include multiwall and twinwall polycarbonate sheets.

Polycarbonate Roofing Panels

These are a specialized type of clear corrugated plastic designed explicitly for roofing applications. They offer superior durability and UV protection, making them a preferred choice for structures like carports, sun rooms, and pergolas. Polycarbonate roofing panels, are a step up from traditional plastic roof panels due to their enhanced properties.

Plastic Roofing

This category encompasses both polycarbonate sheets and polycarbonate roofing panels. These materials offer a lightweight, durable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional roofing materials. Plastic roofing, especially when it’s made from corrugated polycarbonate, provides a balance of light transmission, impact resistance, and aesthetic appeal.

Corrugated Panels

These are a type of plastic corrugated roofing that has been shaped into a corrugated pattern. The corrugation adds strength and flexibility to the panels, making them an excellent choice for roofing applications. Corrugated panels, especially those made from clear polycarbonate, are a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts due to their ease of installation.

Comparing Clear Corrugated Plastic to Other Roofing Materials

When it comes to roofing materials, there’s a wide array of options available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. However, clear corrugated plastic, particularly in the form of polycarbonate sheets, stands out due to its unique combination of properties. Let’s compare clear corrugated plastic to other common roofing materials.

Clear Corrugated Plastic vs. Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is known for its durability and longevity. However, it doesn’t allow light transmission, which can make the interior of your structure dark. On the other hand, clear corrugated plastic offers high light transmission, allowing natural light to illuminate your space. Additionally, while metal roofing can be noisy during rain, clear corrugated plastic offers quieter performance.

Clear Corrugated Plastic vs. Fiberglass

FRP roofing panels are lightweight and relatively easy to install. However, they can become brittle over time and may not offer the same level of impact resistance as clear corrugated plastic. Furthermore, clear corrugated plastic provides superior UV protection compared to fiberglass.

Clear Corrugated Plastic vs. PVC

PVC roofing sheets are a cost-effective option and resist impacts well. However, they tend to have lower light transmission compared to clear corrugated plastic. PVC also doesn’t offer the same level of UV protection as clear corrugated plastic, which can lead to yellowing over time.

Clear Corrugated Plastic vs. Traditional Shingles

Traditional shingles, whether made from asphalt, wood, or slate, provide a classic look for roofs. However, they don’t allow any light transmission and can be more challenging and time-consuming to install. Clear corrugated plastic, on the other hand, is easy to install and allows natural light to pass through, making it an excellent choice for structures where light is desired.

Clear Corrugated Plastic vs. Acrylic Sheets

Acrylic sheets are another clear roofing option. While they offer good light transmission, they don’t have the same level of impact resistance as clear corrugated plastic. Acrylic can also scratch more easily and may not hold up as well in extreme weather conditions.

In conclusion, while each roofing material has its place, clear corrugated plastic offers a unique combination of light transmission, impact resistance, UV protection, and ease of installation, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications.

Diverse Applications of Clear Corrugated Plastic

Clear corrugated plastic’s versatility allows it to be used in a wide array of applications. Let’s explore some of the most common uses of this material.

Roofing Sheets: Clear corrugated plastic, especially in the form of corrugated polycarbonate sheets, is a popular choice for roofing in both residential and commercial buildings. These sheets offer excellent light transmission and UV protection, making them an ideal choice for roofing applications.
Carports and Pergolas: The light transmission properties of clear corrugated plastic make it an excellent choice for structures like carports and pergolas. It allows natural light to pass through while providing protection from the elements.
Awnings and Canopies: It is an ideal material for awnings and canopies. It provides shade and weather protection while still allowing natural light to pass through.
Skylights: The high light transmission and UV protection of clear corrugated plastic make it an excellent choice for skylights. It allows ample natural light to enter while blocking harmful UV rays.
DIY Projects: Clear corrugated plastic is a popular choice for DIY projects due to its versatility and ease of use. From greenhouses to playhouses, this material can be used to bring a variety of creative ideas to life.

Benefits of Using Clear Corrugated Plastic

Clear plastic roof sheets offers a host of benefits that make it a preferred choice for various applications. Here are some of the key advantages of using this material.

High Light Transmission: Clear corrugated plastic, especially when it’s a corrugated polycarbonate sheet, allows a significant amount of natural light to pass through. This makes it an excellent choice for applications like skylights and greenhouses where maximizing natural light is a priority.
Impact Resistance: Clear corrugated plastic is extremely durable and can withstand impacts that would damage other materials. This makes it an excellent choice for applications that require a high level of durability, like roofing panels.
UV Protection: Clear corrugated plastic blocks harmful UV rays, protecting anything underneath it. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor applications, where UV protection is crucial.
Versatility: Clear corrugated plastic is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of applications, from roofing to DIY projects. This versatility makes it a great material to have on hand for a variety of projects. Whether you’re building a carport, a sun room, or a greenhouse, clear corrugated plastic can meet your needs.
Enhanced Daylighting and Glazing: One of the standout benefits of clear corrugated plastic is its exceptional daylighting and glazing properties.It allows a significant amount of natural light to pass through, brightening up spaces and creating a more open, airy feel. In addition, the term ‘glazing’ refers to the installation of glass or other transparent material in a window or a gap in a wall.

Clear corrugated plastic can be used as a glazing material in various structures, from greenhouses to sunrooms. It provides the transparency of glass, but with superior impact resistance and durability. This makes it an excellent choice for glazing applications where safety and longevity are paramount.

Installation of Clear Corrugated Plastic

Installing clear corrugated plastic is a straightforward process that can be completed with a few basic tools.

First, you’ll need to measure the area where you’ll be installing the plastic and cut your panels to size. This can be done with a simple utility knife or a more specialized tool like a circular saw.

DIY clear roofing sheets lets you enjoy your outdoor spaces all year around. Excelite provides the optimum solution for your clear patio roof, pergola roof, carport shelter, or greenhouse and garden shed cover. Corrugated polycarbonate sheets can be installed on any frame like wooden, PVC, steel or even concrete frame.

Then, Calculating materials needed. Measure both the longest and widest parts of the roof to account for any irregularities in the shape. To calculate the total area of the roof, multiply the length by the width. For example, if the length is 10 feet and the width is 8 feet, the total area would be 10 feet x 8 feet = 80 square feet. Take into account any overhangs or slopes in the roof design that may affect the amount of material needed. Measure these areas separately and add them to the total roof area calculation. Typically, adding 5-10% to the total area measurement.

How many roof sheets do I need for 16 ft corrugated plastic roofing?

The width of most corrugated Roof Sheets is 810mm, and when allowing for one corrugation overlap is 775mm. Therefore: 4876mm ÷ 775mm = 6.29 Furthermore, round up the number to ensure complete coverage. So in this application, you would need 7 roof sheets to span the width of your roof. Then you must ensure you have enough coverage down the length/slope of your roof. To do this, simply divide the total length by the length of the sheet then round up to ensure you have sufficient coverage.

Determine overlaps for larger slopes

If the roof slopes of 15 degree or greater, overlapping sheets approx. 18cm. Maximum distance of 50cm from the center of each rafter.

If the roof slopes of 10-15 degree or greater, overlapping sheets approx. 22cm. Maximum distance of 40cm from the center of each rafter. Overlap every sheet by one corrugation peak.

Install the foam fillers

To keep the roof watertight and weatherproof, we suggest to use foam filler along the horizontal purlins.

Measure and cut the corrugated roofing sheet

Measure and saw excess roofing sheet allowing an overlap eave of 70mm max.

Fit either roof nails or screw cap fixings at EVERY SECOND CORRUGATION PEAK at each of the purlins, plus the top and bottom of the roof structure. Excelite offers Type 17 screws, class 4 mechanical zinc for easy installation.

Next, you’ll need to secure the panels in place. This can be done with screws or nails, depending on the specific application. It’s important to ensure that the panels are securely fastened to prevent them from being damaged by wind or other elements.

Finally, you’ll need to seal the edges of the panels to prevent water from getting underneath them. This can be done with a silicone sealant or a specialized roofing sealant.

If you need to cut your sheets, we have a handy tutorial on how to cut polycarbonate sheets.

Maintenance and Repairs for Clear Corrugated Plastic

Clear corrugated plastic is a durable material that requires minimal maintenance. However, there are a few steps you can take to ensure that your plastic stays in good condition for as long as possible. First, it’s important to clean your plastic regularly. This can be done with a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes, as these can scratch the surface of the plastic. Next, it’s important to check the plastic for any signs of damage regularly. If you notice any cracks or other signs of damage, it’s important to repair or replace the damaged area as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Finally, it’s important to protect your plastic from extreme temperatures. While clear corrugated plastic is durable and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, extreme heat or cold can cause the plastic to become brittle and crack. If possible, try to keep your plastic in a shaded area during the hottest parts of the day, and consider using a cover or other form of protection during the coldest parts of the year.

Conclusion

Clear corrugated plastic is a versatile, durable, and cost-effective material that offers a multitude of benefits for various applications. From its high light transmission and impact resistance to its UV protection and ease of installation, it’s an excellent choice for a wide range of projects. Whether you’re planning to install a new roof, build a carport, or embark on a DIY project, clear corrugated plastic is a material worth considering. At Excelite Plastics, we offer a wide range of clear corrugated plastic products to meet your specific needs. Our team is always on hand to provide expert advice and guidance to help you choose the right product for your project. Once you’ve made your selection, the checkout process is straightforward and secure, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free shopping experience.

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For more information don’t hesitate to reach out at sales@exceliteplas.com for personalized quote and expert advice.

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