Three Essential Guidelines for Installing Polycarbonate Roofing

There are numerous advantages of choosing polycarbonate roofs for building deck roofing, awnings and greenhouses on your residential property. The material is highly durable and resistant to pressure and mechanical impact. The structure provides UV protection, ensuring comfort and safety. Polycarbonate is also not vulnerable to damage by snow and rain. In addition, this type of roofing is lightweight and easy to handle. On the other hand, you should remember that these benefits can be compromised by the quality of installation. Therefore, here are some simple installation guidelines to help you ensure the ideal performance of the structure.

Choose the Right Sheet Side

Polycarbonate roofing sheets are not double-sided. In simple terms, the panels are designed to be installed on one specific side. This issue can be attributed to the UV protection coating. The layer s applied on one side to ensure that the sunlight is repelled, protecting the users and preventing the degradation of the sheets. If you install on the reverse side, these benefits will be reduced. Therefore, you should check the stickers indicating the correct side for installation. Also, you must be careful when handling the sheets to avoid damaging the protective coating.

Plan for Temperature Changes

There will be constant changes in temperature when the polycarbonate roofing is installed. This external weather change will cause the sheets to either contract or expand. If you do not plan for this change, your panels could sustain premature damage such as warping and buckling. As a result, you might have to plan for early repairs of reinstallation. This problem can be prevented through planning for the thermal movement of the roof. In simple terms, you should leave some allowance space at the ends to ensure that panels will expand and contract freely without negative effects.

Drill the Correct Hole Sizes

You will need to install screws to fasten the polycarbonate sheets to the building's structural framework for support. Proper installation of these screws will ensure the longevity of the roofing and its stability during inclement weather. In general, you should predrill the holes for the screws prior to fixing the sheets for optimal accuracy. You should not handle the screwing work directly. When drilling the holes, you should remember to make them a little oversize. The screws should not snugly fit into the hole. The extra space is critical for the expansion of the sheets and fasteners.

Installing polycarbonate roofs can be challenging for a DIY enthusiast. Therefore, if you are planning for such a project, you should hire an experienced roofer.

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