10mm Polycarbonate Sheet from Omega Build

As a plastic roofing sheet the twinwall 10mm polycarbonate sheet offers the advantage of being a strong high impact resistant roofing sheet while allowing a lot of natural daylight to pass through it. Other plastic roofing sheets such as PVC and PETG do not offer the same levels and will often not have such a long life span.

• Highly effective thermal insulation properties
• A lightweight construction that is highly resistant to high impact damage
• Excellent light transmission making it ideal for use as a skylight
• Resistant to yellowing from UV exposure for long-lasting good looks
• Meets all current requirements for fire resistance
• Single -sided fully UV-protected for long-term installation

How to fix Polycarbonate Sheets

1) Right side up

There is a top and bottom side to most  poly sheets. The top surface has been specially protected  with a UV resistant layer against adverse weather conditions so it is important to ensure it is installed the right way up. The side protected by the printed film is the top side. To ensure maximum weathering protection make sure the sheets are not installed upside down.

2) Taping ends of sheets

We recommend taping the open edges (top and bottom) of the polycarbonate sheets . If you are ordering cut to size sheets from Omega we can do this for you before shipping.  You should put aluminium (solid) tape on the top side and fabric breather tape on the lower end. This reduces the chance of moisture and insects or dust getting in the sheets. Any moisture that does get in through either breaks in the tape or absorbed through the polycarbonate should evaporate through the breather tape at the lower end. Please note the tapes are not weatherproof and need to be protected by sheet closures or flashing.

3) Thermal movement

Polycarbonate is subject to movement both laterally and longitudinally as a result of changes in temperature. It is therefore essential that adequate clearances are allowed when fitting glazing bars.

Check the descriptions on the glazing bars what should be deducted for the bar.A gap of 3mm must be allowed between the sheet end and fixing leg of the glazing bar.

4) Fixing buttons

In exposed conditions, or where large panels are used fixing buttons are recommended at the eaves and on the purlins to prevent movement and wind lift. Drill a hole 3mm wider than the stem of the cover to ensure a good fit.

5) Cleaning

Poly glazing sheets should be cleaned with a soft sponge or cloth using warm water and a mild soap or detergent. Do not use abrasives or cleaners with high alkaline content.

6) Suitable sealing

To allow for expansion and contraction of  multiwall polycarbonate only non-hardening silicone sealant should be used. Although most low modulus sealants are suitable, there are a few containing chemical agents which react adversely with Polycarbonate. Ensure it is a neutral cure sealant as that is compatible with polycarbonate.

7) Flashing material

Ideally a metal flashing (Lead, Aluminium or Zinc) should be used since these do not interfere with the thermal movement of the sheet. Self adhesive flashings can be used but preferably in short lengths - max. 2m - with an overlap of 150mm. There are a few adhesive flashings which have an adverse effect on Polycarbonate such as bitumen . We recommend butyl based flashing . Also do not apply flashband  over freshly applied silicone. The fumes from the silicone as it drys affect the adhesive on the flasband.

8) Protective masking film

All Marlon Poly sheets are supplied with a polythene film on both sides and tape on both ends to protect the sheet during transit and installation. It is clear/plain on one side and patterned on the other.

9) Warranty

Good quality polycarbonate should have a 10 year warranty.  This warranty is usually for the UV protective layer and its impact on discolouration.

It is worth checking as some companies sell imported polycarbonate sheet with inferior UV protection that have either no or a very limited warranty.

Polycarbonate is not guaranteed against condensation. This can be caused by fitting issues and/or the environment the roof is situated.