If you have decided to use a multiwall polycarbonate sheet for your upcoming construction project, you must be aware of how to properly use and maintain it. This will ensure that the installation is successful and that the sheet lasts for many years without issue. A single mistake in the installation process or in maintaining the polycarbonate could lead to irreparable damage or inferior performance.
- Never store the sheets, while wrapped in their protective film, in a place where they will be exposed to sunlight.
- Use adhesive aluminum tape to seal the air cells.
- Install the sheets with the ultraviolet protected side facing the outside, and be sure to remove the protective film after installation.
- Use clean, lukewarm water and a mild dishwashing detergent solution to clean the surfaces gently.
- Allow for thermal expansion of the sheets (meaning that they will grow or shrink slightly in size depending on the weather).
- Use suitable hoisting equipment to handle the sheets; this will prevent unnecessary damage and avoid injury.
- If necessary, only use a polycarbonate-compatible silicone.
Cleaning
When cleaning multiwall polycarbonate sheets, you must stick with lukewarm water and a mild detergent solution. The use of abrasive products can have a detrimental effect on the surface. If you are unsure about a product’s suitability, it is always best to err on the side of caution.
Sealing
Sometimes, it is necessary to seal the edge of the panels to provide the inner channels with protection. In these cases, you must use only a neutral, polycarbonate-compatible silicone to avoid damage. It is recommended that you ask your installer to handle such sealing.
Thermal Expansion
Keep in mind that polycarbonate is subject to thermal expansion of 0.065mm/ m°C. When installing the sheets, you must be allowed enough room for expansion. If an anchoring system has been used, it must consist of the brackets and connectors explicitly provided for each product.
Handling
Ensure that proper precautions have been taken when handling the sheets to avoid accidental impact and scratches. Even the slightest bump can ruin the appearance of your polycarbonate, as well as undermine its mechanical properties (effectively rendering it useless).
Storage
It will help if you avoid direct exposure to sunlight and rain. This will help to prevent an excessive build-up of heat in the packaging or the formation of condensation in the cells. It would be better if you never removed the protective film before installation, but ensure it is removed immediately after (as it cannot be in the sun).
By following the tips and instructions provided above, you can rest assured that your multiwall polycarbonate sheets have been properly installed and correctly maintained. These sheets are suitable for both residential and commercial applications, but it is essential that you properly care for them if you want them to stand the test of time. When looked after, polycarbonate is a durable and aesthetically-pleasing material that we are sure you will love.
We need a quote to place under a veranda roof. The length of the veranda is 11.5 metres. The length of the sheet needs to be 2.5 metres. The sheets can be either 1m or 2m wide. We would like a pale blue or white sheet. Thank you Stephen