Which side to put polycarbonate to the sun

To maximize the performance and longevity of polycarbonate panels, it is imperative to select the side of the panels that faces the sun. Popular for greenhouse panels and roofing, polycarbonate provides superior light transmission and durability. But the efficiency of these panels can be greatly affected by the way you orient them.

The UV protection layer that is built into polycarbonate should be taken into account when installing the panels. This layer is usually oriented outward to protect the panel from the sun’s damaging UV rays. The panel can withstand prolonged exposure without yellowing or becoming brittle over time if the UV protective layer is facing the sun.

The ability of polycarbonate to transmit light is another crucial component. The panel can effectively filter UV rays while still allowing plenty of visible light to pass through if it is oriented with its UV protective layer facing the sun. Whether used for shading in a roofing application or to maintain a favorable environment for plants in a greenhouse, this arrangement aids in maintaining it.

Furthermore, the energy efficiency of the polycarbonate panels can be affected by their proper orientation. You can keep the temperatures beneath the panels cooler and avoid heat buildup by orienting the UV protective layer towards the sun. This feature is especially helpful in hot climates, where it can result in lower cooling costs and more comfort by reducing heat gain.

In summary, knowing how to properly orient polycarbonate panels—orienting the UV protective layer toward the sun—ensures durability, effectiveness, and peak performance in a range of applications, from greenhouse construction to roofing solutions. This easy modification not only shields the panels from UV rays but also improves their efficiency in light transmission and controls the accumulation of heat beneath them.

Sunny Side Shaded Side
Place polycarbonate with the UV-protected side facing the sun to prevent yellowing and prolong its lifespan. Place polycarbonate with the UV-protected side facing inward to protect it from UV rays, extending its durability.

Which side to properly lay polycarbonate – useful tips

Polycarbonate, also referred to as leaf polymer plastic, is lightweight, highly durable, and has good light transmission. The majority of cellular polycarbonate was utilized in house building. It is extensively utilized in the production of greenhouses and awnings. Understanding some basic installation guidelines, such as which side to place the polycarbonate, will help to ensure that the structure is dependable and long-lasting and prevent unanticipated problems.

Features of the material

The chemical production product was named in a transverse section based on external cellular structure similarity. Cellular polycarbonate slabs are made up of multiple polymer sheets joined by longitudinal jumpers that provide strength and act as a stiffness rib for the plate. There can be anywhere from two and four layers. Polycarbonate has good heat-insulating qualities due to this structure.

Polycarbonate, which obstructs over 90% of light flow, is 100 times more durable than glass while maintaining good flexibility. It is convenient to use in the production of arched canopies because of this quality. The excellent resistance of polycarbonate to mechanical damage is equally significant for awnings. Polycarbonate is resistant to cracks even after blows, so it can withstand any size hailstorm.

Every kind of polycarbonate is shielded from ultraviolet radiation’s damaging effects by a film. Additionally, a unique (selective) coating on the front side of the sheet allows for the passage of a specific portion of the light spectrum.

  1. Polycarbonate coating contains polarized mica particles, which pass the main part of the light flow, reflecting infrared radiation. In rooms with glazing from this type of polycarbonate, with sufficient lighting, the air warms up less, which facilitates the maintenance of the microclimate in hot times. Polycarbonate sheets have a pleasant pearl pearl or golden color.
  2. Another type of polycarbonate is most applicable for glazing greenhouses. Its coating passes part of the spectrum that contributes to the best growth of plants, while delaying harmful radiation. And here it is important, which side to lay polycarbonate into a greenhouse. If you put the sheets incorrectly, the climate in the greenhouse will be fatal for plants. In addition, having lost protection against ultraviolet radiation, polycarbonate will begin to collapse and quickly become unusable.
  3. Cellular polycarbonate with high reflective ability. The coating contains aluminum spraying, which prevents the greenhouse effect and creates a cool shadow. Three flowers are produced slabs with metallic coating: silver, blue and green.

Sheets are made with a safety film of multiple colors so that installation of the polycarbonate will go without a hitch. The sheet is always transparent or covered in white film on the lower side. The blue film may have a pattern or launched marking on its upper side. Either way, the top side differs greatly from the bottom. It is best to take off the safety film right before putting the panels in place or right afterward.

A polycarbonate with identical safety film on both sides exists. The protective layer is present on both sides of these sheets. Whichever side is laid upward during installation is not important.

The erected structure (canopy or greenhouse) with a roof made of cellular polycarbonate will last for many years if installation procedures are followed correctly.

This article will guide you through the process of building a polycarbonate structure by teaching you the proper way to assemble the polymer sheets.

Installation instructions

The three types of structures we typically deal with when installing polycarbonate are as follows:

  • arched (in this case, the sheet is bent for a certain radius);
  • vertical;
  • horizontal.

Arched structures must be installed with extra care and neatness. Every thickness of the sheet has a minimum bending radius that should never be exceeded because, in the event that temperature causes a change in the linear dimensions, the sheet may burst on the bend or crack in the places where it is fastened.

Installations that are both horizontal and vertical (and inclined) are done so while accounting for:

  • significant thermal expansion of a polycarbonate sheet;
  • the need to install sealing elements;
  • The location and nature of the protection against ultraviolet radiation (it can be the life of the film- one- and bilateral- and protection in the mass created using special additives before extrusion).

Plotting should be kept to a minimum whenever a hole needs to be drilled for a fastener; if protective film is used, it should be minimal. Furthermore, it is imperative to guarantee that in the event of a unilateral UV protection arrangement, the film is situated on the exterior surface of the sheet.

Ordinary screws are used to secure polycarbonate sheets to the frame. However, a thermo-haired, whose inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the screw or other fastener, is also a crucial component. By compressing and expanding the material, you can adjust for the material’s thermal expansion and ensure that it stays firmly fixed.

It’s also crucial to account for the space that exists between the leaf’s edges and any frame elements that limit it from the sides. This space is needed for the polycarbonate to expand when heated.

Is it possible to bend sheets of cellular polycarbonate?

Mobile polycarbonate panels may only be bent in one direction: along the channel line, or the long side of the sheet. It is recommended that the bending radius be 175 times greater than the bending sheet thickness.

Why close the ends of polycarbonate?

You have to seal the ends of the polycarbonate sheets to keep them clear and clean. The ends are sealed in the following ways: the lower ends are sealed with a unique perforated ribbon that allows air circulation and the end profile; the upper open ends are sealed with sealing tape and end profile to keep out water, dust, and snow.

Do I need to remove a protective film?

Once the installation is finished, you remove the protective film from the sheet’s surface.

Sheets must be safeguarded during installation, transportation, and loading and unloading. Should you decide to leave it, it may eventually adhere to the sheet due to the sun’s rays, making future tearing difficult.

Which side to fix the cellular polycarbonate to the sun?

The protective film applied to the sheet at the factory defines the polycarbonate’s front side.

There are various options that stand out:

  • The film on both sides is transparent – the sheet is evenly protected from ultraviolet radiation in the mass;
  • The film is transparent on the one hand, on the other hand, the marked (production sheets of Russia) – to the sun with the marked side;
  • The film is transparent on the one hand, on the other hand, marked (brand Lexan, Austria) – the sheet is protected on both sides;
  • The film on both sides is marked – the sheet is protected on both sides.

Installation instructions for polycarbonate: which side should be fixed, can the sheets be bent, and why should the ends of the polycarbonate be closed? Continue reading

Polycarbonate installation – how to correctly install canvases?

When selecting a material like polycarbonate, many vacationers and private home owners encounter a variety of issues. Concerns and challenges also surface virtually at every installation stage.

When applying polycarbonate, there are a few details and characteristics to consider. In this instance, it is also necessary for you to have some prior experience working with the material.

How to properly lay polycarbonate? What to take into account and where to start?

Selecting the appropriate thickness is necessary before you lay the polymer canvases. Frequently, the question of "How to correctly calculate the necessary penetration of light, for example into a greenhouse?" comes up from people who want to cover the roof with polymer plastic. Selecting colored canvases is particularly challenging because of differences in their photophability:

  1. When creating a project, it is necessary to take into account what lighting is required (there will be enough muffled light or a bright one is required). For example, in the southern regions, an incorrectly selected sheet of polymer plastic can lead to overheating of the structure inside, and in the northern regions, on the contrary, difficulties with a lack of light may arise.
  2. Flaps should be fastened in a certain direction. If the coating is installed vertically, the channels must also be in an upright position. If the design is a curved shape (for example, arched), then the channels are directed in parallel to bends. In the case of a roof with a slope, the channels go in the direction of the slope.
  3. If the roof of the flat structure use panels that are laid at an angle of five degrees. The angle of inclination is needed so that the water drains, and does not stagnate. A slope of more than five degrees is made if the size of the roof exceeds 6 m.

Advice: It’s important to keep in mind that polycarbonate sheets expand thermally, so you need to allow for a gap of three to four millimeters when installing them. This kind of subtlety needs to be considered, or else the coating may crumple in the summer and crack in the winter.

Aluminum profiles are typically used to join polymer canvases. Be mindful that the seal you select should work with polycarbonate.

Polycarbonate installation technology

The answer to the question, "How to install polycarbonate correctly?" is to follow all installation guidelines and don’t overlook the material’s characteristics.

The process of laying polycarbonate:

  • The sheets are placed along the entire perimeter of the frame and the attachment places are marked;
  • They make small holes for thermo -haired and self -tapping screws (the distance from the edge should be at least 40 mm, and the diameter of the places made for fasteners should exceed several millimeters the diameter of the thermal -shayba stand);
  • After cutting from the edges, all the chips are removed;
  • All ends must be closed using special tapes (this is necessary so that dirt and water are not collected in the polymer cells); In no case should the sections be sealed with ordinary tape;
  • The canvases must be placed correctly, taking into account the temperature expansion of the polymer, for this they leave small distances between the panels (so that in winter and summer the sheet does not deform);
  • With the help of self -tapping screws and thermosib, the sheets are fastened, and the gaskets are used for strength and reliability (it is worth remembering that the diameter of the screw should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the thermo -haired);
  • Often many summer residents are wondering “which side to lay polycarbonate?»It is important that the protective layer is located on the outside of the structure, since it protects the room from the penetration of UV rays;
  • If the material is connected at a right angle, then in this case you need an angular profile, if connected to the wall, then use the fastener, and the ridge profile is used to install the skate on the roof.

Polycarbonate laying advice

Sheets of polymer plastic can be positioned on both flat and curved surfaces. The guidelines for laying are the same in both situations. But before you work with the material, there are a few things you should be aware of:

  1. Despite the fact that the polymer bends well, it is not recommended to bend it especially, therefore, in the process of laying on a curved structure, you need to ensure that the crack does not go on it.
  2. In the event that the material for coating with a small thickness is chosen, then it can be laid by any side, since the protective layer is located throughout the thickness.
  3. If you select a polycarbonate of a more expensive row, then lay it in such a way that the protective side is on the outer side of the building (the expensive polymer has only one protective side).
  4. Most often, polymer plastic is placed on a structure, which is either made of wood or from metal.

A crucial point to remember is that the sheet’s thickness should match the spacing between the blocking bars. For instance, there should be at least 40 centimeters between the bars if the canvas is 4 mm thick. The distance will be greater than 60 cm if its thickness is 6 mm.

You must closely adhere to all installation guidelines and features in order to prevent damage to the structure and extend its lifespan.

While installing polycarbonate may appear straightforward at first, there are a few subtleties to be aware of when laying polycarbonate.

Which side to attach polycarbonate on the frame of the greenhouse

Owners of private homes and cottages have long been drawn to polycarbonate because of its strength, light weight, and environmental friendliness. Furthermore, it is simple to work with: setting up and taking down a greenhouse or greenhouse with your hands is a simple task.

When working with polycarbonate for the first time, it can be difficult to determine which side of the sheet to attach to the structure because only one of them has UV protection, so mounting must be done correctly. This determines the greenhouse’s strength and longevity because any UV protection inside the structure won’t be provided by improperly installed polycarbonate.

Thus, ascertain first: are protective films adhered to both sides in the same color? They are typically distinct from one another: the lower one is transparent, while the upper, front, and side are sealed with a painted film.

Additionally, additional information and the manufacturer’s logo are frequently visible at the top. There may occasionally be a "top" or some other comprehensible indication. Put comprehensive material instructions here, on the front, including which side to attach a polycarbonate sheet to the greenhouse and how to do so.

For the convenience of the customer, protective films occasionally come in multiple colors that indicate the front side. Purchase a polycarbonate with dual UV protection as an additional output. Yes, it will cost a little more, but you won’t need to search for the upper side.

In the event that none of the aforementioned techniques are successful in identifying the front side, ask the seller for assistance; they will be happy to oblige. Manufacturers occasionally create a laser notch on top. They aid in figuring out how to repair the material once the protective films have been removed.

When installing, it’s very easy to get confused about the polycarbonate side. Thus, exercise caution, as it will determine the greenhouse’s ultimate quality.

Remember that the material panels need to be oriented correctly, either vertically, parallel to the bend, or in the direction of the roof slope. Yes, and in order to guarantee the best possible performance of the functions assigned to it by the structure, they themselves must possess a specific thickness and level of light permeability.

Features of cutting and preparing for installation

Install polycarbonate sheeting on a level roof with a 5–7% incline. This will make washing easier and improve water drainage.

Installing requires consideration of the material’s expansion-suction property, which occurs when it is exposed to high or low temperatures (average plus or minus 5 mm per 1 m² of area).

This is accomplished by making the polycarbonate hole diameters 3–4 mm larger than the screw size. By keeping a 1.5–2 mm supply close to each mount, you can avoid the material from warning in the summer and crackling in the winter.

As a seal, use neoprene, silicone, Teflon, and polyethylene.

Polycarbonate can be sliced using a strip, circular saw, or grinder. Work on level, firm surfaces to prevent material deterioration.

Take off the protective film last since it will shield the front side and ends of the sheets from scuffs and the appearance of shavings or other particles.

Methods of fastening polycarbonate. Thermals

The gadget is a short-leg plastic washer that is the same length as the material sheet when the clicking cover and sealing gum are taken into consideration.

If everything goes according to plan during installation, thermal-haired ones let you tightly attach polycarbonate to a greenhouse. Keep the step to within 30 to 40 cm at the same time.

Avoid allowing the twisting screws’ axis to bend or tug. This frequently results in the sheet deforming or even showing through holes, which depressurizes the structure in this location.

It is utilized when a building’s width exceeds 2.1 meters, which is the typical width of a polycarbonate’s smaller side. Profiles are end-oriented, non-progressive, connective, and connective.

Every variety has advantages and purposes of its own. Generally speaking, though, everything will work out easily and dependably with the correct installation, regardless of what you decide.

Laying and connecting inexplicable profiles becomes inconvenient when the slope is longer than three meters. Although disgusting profiles cost a little more, working with them is more convenient, and the final design will be more dependable.

When installing slopes, the sealant tape is meant to brand the upper edge of the panels. Next, the end profile on the polycarbonate needs to be applied. Please be advised that a perforated tape must be used to seal the lower edge of the panels when arranging roofs in the shape of arches. Failing to do so will result in the release of condensed air and, in colder weather, the possible rupture of honeycombs.

Polycarbonate sheet ends should never be taped over; instead, use an end profile exclusively.

Aluminum fastening systems

If the form permits, the aluminum profile can serve as a supporting base in addition to being the best waterproofing material. Aluminum systems are completely shielded from moisture and condensation thanks to rubber seals. They are visually beautiful, dependable, long-lasting, and have outstanding thermal insulation.

Because polycarbonate, in general, needs maintenance, remember to perform seasonal preventive maintenance to increase the greenhouse’s lifespan. Use of strong cleaners or abrasives is not recommended; clean water and rags will suffice. Now, be cautious when clearing the snow to avoid harming the UV-blocking polycarbonate layer on top. When you follow these easy guidelines, the greenhouse will last you a long time.

Which side of a greenhouse’s polycarbonate should be strengthened? fundamental guidelines for handling polycarbonate. Technology of polycarbonate sheets for greenhouses.

Take into account the special qualities of polycarbonate when choosing which side to face the sun. The UV layer built into polycarbonate sheets protects against the sun’s harmful rays. By keeping the material from deteriorating too quickly and turning yellow, facing the UV-protected side outwards assures longevity and durability.

Additionally, turning the UV-coated side outward maximizes the sheet’s light-transmitting capacity while reducing its absorption of heat. By lowering heat buildup, this arrangement not only improves the visual appeal of buildings like greenhouses and pergolas but also fosters a comfortable interior atmosphere.

On the other hand, the polycarbonate sheets may deteriorate more quickly if the UV-protected side is facing the incorrect way or is placed inward. The installation’s look and functionality may be jeopardized as a result of decreased light transmission efficiency and increased heat retention.

In conclusion, always make sure that the UV-protected side of polycarbonate sheets faces outward toward the sun for best results and longevity. This minor detail not only maintains the strength and clarity of the material but also raises the overall efficiency of structures made of polycarbonate.

Main Thesis: It is important to comprehend the special properties of polycarbonate before choosing which side to face the sun. Although polycarbonate sheets are UV-coated on both sides for protection, their longevity and durability are increased when the UV-coated side is facing the sun. This orientation improves weather resistance and preserves optical clarity over time. On the other hand, poor placement may result in a slower rate of deterioration and worse performance. Consequently, facing the UV-coated side outward maximizes the performance of polycarbonate under different weather conditions, which makes it an essential option for extending the lifespan and effectiveness of roofing installations.

Video on the topic

Cover your greenhouse like that, do not torment the plants!

How to place a greenhouse on the cardinal points ?

How to properly put polycarbonate

Which side to attach polycarbonate on the greenhouse correctly

Protective layer from ultraviolet on polycarbonate sheets

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Denis Shcherbakov

Professional roofer with 20 years of experience. I know everything about the installation, repair and maintenance of various types of roofs. I will be happy to share my knowledge and experience with you.

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