Polycarbonate sheets are a versatile and durable material, often used for roofing, conservatories and greenhouses. One of the most important things to consider when choosing polycarbonate sheets is selecting the right thickness. Different thicknesses offer various benefits in terms of durability, insulation, and light transmission.
In this article, we'll explore the most common polycarbonate sheet thicknesses, guiding you through the process of choosing the right one for your home improvement project.
What We'll Cover:
What thickness do polycarbonate sheets come in?
Polycarbonate sheets come in a range of thicknesses for different applications. The thickness you choose will depend on factors such as the structure’s purpose, location, and desired insulation.
Listed below are some of the most common polycarbonate thicknesses available:
3mm
3mm polycarbonate sheets are one of the thinnest options on the market. These sheets are lightweight, flexible, and perfect for smaller projects where heavy-duty durability isn’t required.
You might use 3mm sheets for garden cloches or small outdoor shelters. While they offer some protection, they aren’t designed for high-impact resistance or extreme weather conditions.
10mm
10mm polycarbonate sheets provide a good balance between light transmission and strength. They are commonly used for conservatories and greenhouses, where insulation and durability are critical.
The multiwall structure of 10mm sheets also improves insulation by trapping air within the sheet's layers, which can help regulate temperature within a greenhouse or conservatory.
16mm
16mm polycarbonate sheets are one of the thickest options, and are perfect for structures requiring high levels of insulation, strength, and impact resistance.
This thickness is ideal for large conservatories or commercial greenhouses, where temperature control is important. The thicker material also helps reduce external noise, providing a more comfortable indoor environment.
Key differences between polycarbonate sheet sizes
Key differences between polycarbonate sheet sizes
When comparing polycarbonate sheet sizes, the key differences are in their insulation capabilities, durability, and light transmission. Thicker sheets, like 10mm or 16mm, generally offer better insulation, making them ideal for structures where temperature control is key, such as conservatories.
Alternatively, thinner sheets like 3mm offer more flexibility and greater light transmission, which can be beneficial for smaller projects or structures that don’t require significant insulation.
Choosing the right polycarbonate sheet size
Choosing the right polycarbonate sheet size
To choose the right polycarbonate sheet thickness, you ought to consider your specific requirements.
Below are the factors to help guide your decision:
- Insulation
If temperature control is important, you should opt for thicker sheets like 10mm or 16mm, as they offer better insulation.
- Durability
For structures exposed to extreme weather conditions or requiring higher impact resistance, thicker sheets will be the best option for you.
- Light transmission
If maximising natural light is a priority, thinner sheets will be a better fit, as they allow more sunlight to pass through.
- Project size
Smaller projects may benefit from thinner, more flexible sheets, while larger structures typically need the strength and insulation provided by thicker sheets.
Are thicker polycarbonate sheets better?
While thicker polycarbonate sheets offer improved insulation and strength, they aren’t always the best option. It’s important to consider the specific requirements of your structure.
For instance, if you’re building a small greenhouse that requires a lot of natural light, opting for a thinner sheet might be more appropriate, as it will allow more light to enter the space. Thicker sheets are better suited for areas where strength and temperature control are essential, but may not be necessary for smaller or less demanding structures.
How thick should polycarbonate be for greenhouses and conservatories?
How thick should polycarbonate be for greenhouses and conservatories?
For greenhouses, the ideal thickness of polycarbonate sheets depends on the climate and insulation needs. In milder climates, 3mm polycarbonate sheets are typically sufficient, providing a balance of insulation and light transmission. However, in colder climates, 10mm or 16mm sheets offer better insulation and temperature control, ensuring that plants are kept warm during colder months and help reduce heat loss.
Conservatories are often used as living spaces, so insulation and durability are top considerations. This is why 10mm or 16mm sheets are the most commonly used options for conservatory roofing. Thicker sheets help to keep the conservatory warm in winter and cool in summer, and also provide better noise reduction.
Life expectancy of polycarbonate
Polycarbonate sheets are known for their durability and long lifespan. When properly installed and maintained, they can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years or longer, depending on the quality of the sheets. Thicker sheets tend to last longer due to their increased resistance to weathering and UV exposure.
Proper maintenance is crucial for maximising the lifespan of polycarbonate sheets, just like any other roofing material.
The maintenance process includes regularly cleaning the sheets to remove dirt, algae, and other debris that could degrade the material over time.
When might you need to replace polycarbonate?
When might you need to replace polycarbonate?
Although polycarbonate is a durable material, there are times when replacement may be necessary. Signs that you might need to replace your polycarbonate roof panels include:
- Fractures
Visible damage that allows water to leak through the roof.
- Yellowing
Over time, UV exposure can cause polycarbonate sheets to yellow, reducing light transmission.
- Warping or buckling
Extreme weather conditions, such as high winds or heavy snow, can cause polycarbonate sheets to warp or buckle, which can affect the integrity of your roof.
When you notice any of these issues, it may be time to invest in new polycarbonate sheets. Eurocell offers a wide range of high-quality polycarbonate sheets and roofing products designed to last, ensuring your roof remains durable and functional.
Overall, choosing the right thickness for your polycarbonate sheets is essential to ensure the durability, insulation and performance of your project. Whether you're building a greenhouse, conservatory, or any outdoor structure, understanding the differences between thicknesses will help you make the best decision.
Contact us today to find the perfect solution for your roofing needs. Discover our polycarbonate sheets and get started now.