Polycarbonate Roofing
Polycarbonate roofing is a lightweight, high-impact resistant thermoplastic material that provides exceptional clarity and light transmission while offering superior durability compared to other transparent roofing options. Available in various configurations including multiwall (structured) sheets, corrugated panels, and solid flat sheets, polycarbonate roofing combines excellent optical properties with good thermal insulation, UV resistance, and exceptional impact strength.
Composition
Specialized material designed for weather protection and durability on building roofs
Properties
Light Transmission
Clear: 80-90%, Tinted: 20-75%
Polycarbonate offers excellent light transmission properties. Clear sheets typically transmit 80-90% of visible light, while tinted or diffused options range from 20-75% depending on color and treatment. This allows for precise control of daylighting in various applications.
Weight
0.3-0.8 lbs/ft²
Significantly lighter than glass or other transparent roofing options. Multiwall sheets typically weigh 0.3-0.5 lbs/ft² depending on thickness and structure, while solid sheets range from 0.5-0.8 lbs/ft². This lightweight nature reduces structural requirements and simplifies installation.
Impact Resistance
200-250 times stronger than glass
Exceptional impact resistance is a defining characteristic of polycarbonate. The material can withstand impacts from hail, falling branches, and other hazards that would shatter glass. This high impact strength is maintained across a wide temperature range.
Thermal Insulation
R-value: 1.5-4.0
Thermal performance varies significantly by configuration. Single-wall sheets provide minimal insulation (R-1.5), while multiwall products with multiple air chambers can achieve R-values of 2.0-4.0 depending on thickness and structure. This makes multiwall polycarbonate an effective option for insulated daylighting applications.
Fire Rating
Class A or B (ASTM E84)
Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic that will soften and melt under intense heat but is inherently flame-retardant. Most products achieve Class A or B fire ratings, with limited flame spread and smoke development. The material is self-extinguishing and does not support continued combustion when the flame source is removed.
UV Resistance
10-15 year warranty typical
Modern polycarbonate roofing includes co-extruded UV protection layers that prevent yellowing and degradation. Quality products typically carry 10-15 year warranties against significant yellowing and loss of light transmission, though actual performance can extend beyond this period in many environments.
Applications
Skylights and Roof Lights
Widely used for commercial and residential skylights, roof windows, and clerestory applications where natural daylighting is desired along with good thermal performance and safety. The high impact resistance eliminates concerns about breakage from hail or debris.
Covered Walkways and Canopies
Popular for covered walkways, entrance canopies, and transit shelters where light transmission, weather protection, and durability are required. The material's ability to be cold-formed into curved shapes allows for creative architectural expressions.
Greenhouses and Agricultural Structures
Extensively used in commercial and residential greenhouses, garden centers, and agricultural buildings where optimal light transmission, thermal insulation, and durability are essential for plant growth and energy efficiency.
Pool Enclosures and Patio Covers
Ideal for swimming pool enclosures, patio covers, and outdoor living spaces where transparency, UV protection, and resistance to pool chemicals and moisture are required. Special grades are available with enhanced resistance to chlorine and other chemicals.
Sports Facilities and Stadiums
Applied in sports arenas, stadiums, and recreational facilities for roof and wall systems that provide natural light while protecting against weather and impacts. The lightweight nature reduces structural requirements for large-span applications.
Industrial Rooflights and Daylighting
Used in industrial buildings, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities to introduce natural light, reducing energy costs while providing a comfortable working environment. Fire-rated versions meet building code requirements for industrial applications.
Advantages
- Exceptional impact resistance, virtually unbreakable under normal conditions
- Excellent light transmission with options for diffusion and tinting
- Lightweight nature reducing structural requirements and simplifying installation
- Good thermal insulation, particularly with multiwall configurations
- UV protection preventing material degradation and protecting interiors
- Flexibility allowing for curved applications and cold-forming
- Wide service temperature range (-40°F to 270°F)
- Self-extinguishing fire behavior with good fire ratings
- Weather resistance including excellent hail and snow load performance
Limitations
- Higher cost compared to fiberglass and acrylic alternatives
- Surface scratching more likely than with glass
- Thermal expansion requiring appropriate installation systems
- Potential for condensation in multiwall sheets if not properly sealed
- Limited color stability compared to glass (even with UV protection)
- Cleaning restrictions (abrasive cleaners can damage surfaces)
- Reduced acoustical performance during rain and hail
- Petroleum-based product with associated environmental considerations
- Limited recyclability in many regions despite theoretical recyclability
Sustainability Profile
Sustainable roofing options include recycled materials, cool roofs that reduce energy consumption, and living roofs that provide insulation and manage stormwater. Durability is a key factor in sustainability assessment.