Which polycarbonate is best used for a greenhouse

The plastic obtained on the basis of polymer raw materials, that is, polycarbonate, was obtained in Germany and the USA as far back as the 50s of the last century. Its industrial production began a decade later, but cell sheets first appeared only in the 80s in Israel.

Due to its unique characteristics and useful properties, polycarbonate quickly gained popularity and became widespread. It is used in a variety of fields, if we talk about personal farms, then this material has become the main one in the manufacture of greenhouses.

Which polycarbonate is better for a greenhouse - cellular or monolithic?

Based on the above, the best option is cellular polycarbonate having a hollow structure. If we compare it with monolithic, then, with the same thickness of the sheets, it has a lower specific gravity. Also an argument in favor of cellular polycarbonate is its low thermal conductivity due to the hollow structure.

Cellular polycarbonate for greenhouses

The choice of cellular polycarbonate in the construction of greenhouses is due to a number of reasons, which include the following:

• cheaper cost relative to the monolithic sheet,
• excellent thermal insulation
• light weight combined with high strength,
• reliable protection against UV radiation.

Of the minuses, one can emphasize the low resistance to abrasive influences and the compression of the material with temperature changes.

What thickness is polycarbonate best used for a greenhouse?

This aspect is of great importance, and not only from the point of view of the level of future costs, but also the efficiency of using the greenhouse. Thinking about what thickness it is necessary to choose polycarbonate for a greenhouse, you should rely on such factors:

• crate pitch sizes
• the geometric shape of the greenhouse, slopes and corners in the structure,
• snow load inherent in this region
• temperature condition
• what crops will be grown in the greenhouse.

As often happens, the customer is inclined to the cheapest option, in which the sheets are inexpensive and have a minimum thickness. The resulting benefit in this embodiment is deceptive, since such a design will have insufficient strength and will have to strengthen its frame. Only in this way can we compensate for the lack of strength under snow or wind load.

However, the thickest sheets should not be automatically selected either, because in this case the light transmission will suffer, and the frame will again have to be strengthened due to the large specific weight of the structure.

In most situations, the optimal thickness of polycarbonate sheets is in the range of 4 to 10 millimeters. The step of the crate is recommended within the range of 700-1015 millimeters, this will reduce the consumption of the material used without loss in quality and reliability.

It's important to know: It is important to take into account the shape of the greenhouse in this aspect, when using arched options, the thickness of the sheets is directly related to the bending radius of the material. For pitched greenhouses, everything is also ambiguous, often thin sheets of 4 millimeters are chosen for their walls, but for roofs they already take options of 6 or even 10 millimeters.

Finally, if early vegetables will be grown in the greenhouse, then profiles with a thickness of 4 millimeters will be the best solution, but for seedlings you should already choose a thicker version, at least 6 millimeters.

What color polycarbonate is better to choose for a greenhouse?

To the attention of buyers, manufacturers are either painted panels, or completely transparent. Greenhouse owners make their choice based on various factors, but two of them should play the main role:

1. Light transmission should be maximum.
2. Illumination inside the greenhouse should be closest to natural light.

The highest transmittance is demonstrated by transparent panels, it is about 80%. If you still want to use certain colors, then you should remember that some of them differ in too much light absorption. For example, panels of a popular and trendy bronze hue can absorb up to 60% of sunlight, which can cause irreparable damage to cultivated plants.

Polycarbonate with and without UV protection

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation on transparent polycarbonate can lead to destruction and the formation of cracks on its surface. At first they appear in a microscopic version, but after they grow and eventually lead to a decrease in the strength of the panels and their breakage. For protection, manufacturers use a special protective coating applied to the outer layer of the panels.

In most cases, this layer is only on one side, but certain types of polycarbonate contain it on both sides. They are not used for the construction of greenhouses, their scope, for example, outdoor advertising structures that are exposed to ultraviolet radiation from both sides.

There are options without such a layer, but for outdoor work such polycarbonate should not be used. It is needed for internal work, otherwise destructive processes will render it unusable in a short time, not more than a year.

Comparative characteristics of popular manufacturers of polycarbonate

Today, the Russian market is distinguished by a wealth of choice among manufacturers at various levels. The best known of these are SafPlast Innovative, Bayer material science, Poligral or PlastiLux. The products of these manufacturers are approximately comparable in terms of their quality and price, the choice is largely related to the preferences of customers.

If we analyze the reviews of consumers who bought products of various manufacturers of polycarbonate, and not only Russian ones, we can draw a number of conclusions:

• panels of the popular Sunnex brand in our country serve no more than 4 years, although the manufacturer claims about 7-8 years of operation,
• Poligral products, provided that the panels are installed correctly, can last for 10 years,
• SafPlast Innovative panels are slightly inferior in this regard, but they are also able to last at least 8 years,
• Makrolon panels, which have the longest service life of 12 years, have proven themselves best.

What is polycarbonate Light?

When choosing polycarbonate, you may encounter the labeling Light or "eco". Under it is an economy-class product that is cheaper than others, of course, that you should not count on high quality in this case.

Such a lightweight version of polycarbonate is obtained due to some solutions, in particular, manufacturers can reduce the thickness of sheets from 4 to 3.5 millimeters, or specific gravity. Such solutions reduce the cost of the cost, but at the same time lead to a decrease in the strength of the material. It is impossible to use such constructions for winter construction, since the service life will be lower, moreover, the cost of heating will make such a solution completely ineffective. But for summer greenhouses or hotbeds, this option is very good.

DIY installation rules

There are no special difficulties in the installation of polycarbonate panels, but only if the following rules are observed:

1. The layout of the sheets. The panels must be positioned so that the internal stiffening ribs are in a vertical position. If we are talking about roof slopes, then these edges should be positioned along and at an angle to the slope. Thanks to this solution, the condensate will flow down without difficulty.
2. On arched structures, the long side of the panels is thrown through the arch and all places of joints and fastenings should be sealed.
3. Sheets of small thickness can be cut with a construction knife, for thicker ones you should already use a hacksaw for metal or a fine-toothed saw. Fixing holes are made with a drill or a crown at a distance of 40-50 millimeters from the edges.
4. Laying of panels at the place of their installation is carried out using thermal washers and always with the protective side up. It is not necessary to tighten the screws strongly, this will damage the profiles in the future. The ends are sealed, the joints are connected by a special profile, for arches use a punched tape.

Cellular Polycarbonate Life

Premium level polycarbonate manufacturing companies guarantee consumers that their products will last about 20 years. It is worth noting that we are talking about European production, in domestic realities the average duration of operation of polycarbonate is about 10 years. A lot of Chinese products are found in the manufacture of which recyclables are used. This negatively affects the quality of the product and its service life, usually the maximum mark for such material will be 5, maximum 7 years of service.

Practical guidelines for material selection and installation

Quality is the main criterion, which should be emphasized to those who are going to buy polycarbonate for the construction of the greenhouse. What should you pay attention to in this case in the first place? There are several criteria, among which it is advisable to distinguish such:

1. Manufacturer's markings. From it you can draw all the necessary technical information about the product, including panel sizes, thickness, release date and so on.
2. Appearance of the surface. High-quality polycarbonate should not have scratches, bubbles, cracks or kinks, nor should it be on a sheet of dark or cloudy areas.
3. Packaging condition. During storage, the sheets in the warehouse are horizontal and if the material is of high quality, then there should be no deformation due to this.
4. Certification Its absence means that there is no liability of the manufacturer in case of detection of low quality goods.

Equally important will also be the quality of panel mounting. Given the fact that they change their physical properties under the influence of temperature, self-tapping screws with a smaller diameter than mounting holes should be selected. Otherwise, you will have to face cracking of the panels due to compressions and extensions.

Moisture must not get inside the sheet, so open edges should be covered with a material that does not allow water to pass through. This does not apply only to the lower edge, since, with its help, condensate will be discharged.

Transportation and storage

Sheets of polycarbonate are stored indoors, placing them on a flat surface, but this is ideal. If there is no way to hide the panels from the sun and you have to keep them in an open space, then in this case it is necessary to remove the packaging film from them and put the protective layer up.

Transportation is also carried out in a horizontal position, always flat, it is absolutely impossible to put sheets on an edge: this will create a threat of edge deformation. If the thickness of the panels is less than 8 millimeters, then they should not protrude beyond the edges of the sides of the vehicle, otherwise the risk of breakage will increase significantly. Panels with a larger thickness can protrude beyond the edges by no more than a meter.

How to distinguish a fake?

Allocation of a serious budget for the purchase of polycarbonate cannot serve as an absolute guarantee of a successful purchase. This is due to the dishonesty of some sellers, issuing lightweight polycarbonate options for full, and leading world brands. It’s not so difficult to distinguish a fake, just follow a few recommendations:

• preference should be given to European or Israeli manufacturers, with a limited budget, you should look at Russian products, but it is better to abandon Chinese options,
• there are no bargain prices for branded products, if the discount is too big, this is most likely a fake,
• Stiffening ribs deserve special attention, they should be carefully examined so that there is no waviness and they are located strictly parallel to each other,
• a quality product is necessarily covered with a protective film, it should be even, smooth and free from voids,
• each sheet must contain the manufacturer’s marking, all parameters declared by it must be strictly observed, the slightest discrepancy may indicate a fake,
• each seller must have a certificate, do not be shy to require it in order to compare the information contained in it with real,
• UV protective layer must be completely intact, its absence will lead to premature destruction of the panels.

Finally, it’s worth adding that it is advisable to purchase all the components together with polycarbonate from the same manufacturer, this will avoid mismatching the sizes of panels with fittings.

Which polycarbonate is better for a greenhouse - cellular or monolithic

The main function of the greenhouse is to provide the optimal temperature and humidity conditions necessary for growing crops in significant quantities. To solve this problem, facilities are required that cover quite large areas. To erect this is possible only when using materials with a low specific gravity, otherwise a strong and, as a consequence, heavy frame will be required.

It is cellular polycarbonate that has a hollow structure that best meets these requirements. Compared to monolithic, this material has a significantly lower specific gravity with the same sheet thickness. So, one square meter of a 10-mm cell polycarbonate panel is more than an order of magnitude lighter than a whole sheet of the same chemical composition.

In addition, cellular polycarbonate, due to its hollow structure, has a lower thermal conductivity. This fact is decisive in deciding the choice of coating for greenhouses.

Sheets of monolithic polycarbonate.

Sheets of cellular polycarbonate.

So we decided that for the greenhouse you need cellular polycarbonate, but which one is better from the wide range of products on the market? This coating is selected based on a complex of various properties and characteristics, the list of which includes the following:

• mechanical strength
• resistance to changing environmental conditions,
• thermal conductivity,
• light transmission
• availability of protection against hard ultraviolet radiation.

Cellular polycarbonate has high parameters for all the above positions, information on the technical characteristics of the panels is presented in the table:

The characteristics of cellular polycarbonate depend on two main factors: the quality of the feedstock and strict adherence to the production technology of the material. The manufacture of panels is carried out by extrusion on special equipment. Different manufacturers use raw materials with different properties, and their material structure may vary.

The above factors are taken into account when choosing a particular brand of cellular polycarbonate for the construction of a greenhouse.In addition to these parameters, the cost of the panel, which directly depends on the thickness and quality of the sheet, is crucial. Cheap materials, as a rule, are made in violation of the technical conditions and they are not able to withstand prolonged use.

Polycarbonate with and without UV protection

During long-term operation, transparent plastic is exposed to intense sunlight. The ultraviolet part of its spectrum is capable of triggering photoelectric destruction processes, microcracks initially form on the surface. Over time, they grow, which ultimately leads to fragility of the panel and its gradual destruction.

To protect against these processes, a special coating is applied to the outer layer of cellular polycarbonate. The technology of coextrusion with the mutual introduction of materials eliminates the separation of the protective layer from the base. On most types of materials, such a coating is only on one side. To inform the user, a label is placed on the packaging film indicating how to mount the panel.

On certain types of polycarbonates, a photo stabilizing coating is applied on both sides of the sheet. Such panels are used for outdoor advertising structures or sound-absorbing screens, which are installed along major roads near settlements. Their use for the construction of the greenhouse is meaningless, since in this case only one side is exposed to ultraviolet radiation.

Manufacturers also offer polycarbonate, which does not have a light stabilizing layer. Such panels are used exclusively for interior work and are not suitable for greenhouses. Destructive processes will lead to the destruction of the panel after one year of operation. For greenhouses, it is recommended to use high-quality cellular polycarbonate with one-sided UV protection from well-known brands. As a rule, such sheets are glued with a film on which there is a designation on which side there is a protective layer.

Acquisition of inexpensive material produced by a company that does not have a name or does not indicate it is likely to mean a waste of money. Such plastic, as a rule, will not serve the established period and will have to be replaced with a better one in the near future. When choosing cellular polycarbonate for a greenhouse, you should focus on your own financial capabilities and avoid substandard products.

Polycarbonate Feedstocks

Polycarbonate for greenhouses is a plastic polymer that is in granules, but after processing takes the final form. In addition to the granules themselves, the composition of the raw materials includes:

• carbonic acid,
• solvents
• dihydric phenol,
• water.

As a result of the processing and synthesis of phenol, polycarbonate is obtained. In its natural form, it is transparent or has a slightly yellow tint. In order to obtain colored polycarbonate, dyes are added to the raw materials.

Pros and cons of polycarbonate for greenhouses

Polycarbonate used for the construction of greenhouses has many advantages. In addition to its good ability to transmit light, due to its transparency it has light weight and a number of advantages:

• excellent ability to keep warm,
• good gas permeability
• high flexibility, raw materials suitable for creating arched structures,
• long service life, more than 10 years,
• high strength, some monolithic types are bulletproof
• good resistance to mechanical damage.

In addition, polycarbonate for greenhouses holds ultraviolet rays, does not lose its properties at high temperatures, even if its surface is heated to + 60 ° C. The raw materials are completely environmentally friendly, low cost.

However, polycarbonate also has disadvantages. Raw materials are unstable to chemicals, deteriorate when ethyl alcohol, varnishes, kerosene or gasoline, ammonia, and various solvents get on it. With prolonged contact with the listed substances, cracks appear, the sheets are deformed. That is why it is necessary to take care of such a coating in greenhouses very carefully.

Types of Polycarbonate

For the construction of greenhouses, several types of polycarbonate are used:

1. Monolithic - transparent whole sheet with a smooth surface.
   
2. Cellular - has a structure with hollow cells and partitions between them.
   
3. Profiled - the surface of the sheet is corrugated, wavy or corrugated.
   

The release form of standard polycarbonate is a sheet of certain sizes. According to experienced summer residents, the best among polycarbonate for the manufacture of greenhouses is cellular. It retains heat well due to its cellular structure, has the necessary rigidity to withstand winds and snows.

How to choose polycarbonate for a greenhouse by density

The strength of the cells depends on their shape and options for partitions. Modern polycarbonate for greenhouses is made with rectangular, square or hexagonal cells. The best among brands is a German company. It produces the most durable PC with hexagonal cells, it can be used to create winter greenhouses. However, the light transmission level of such a sheet is the lowest. Without additional lighting, growing plants in such a greenhouse is not recommended.

The cheapest and lightest is cellular polycarbonate with rectangular cells. It has good light transmission, but low strength.

Sheets with square cells are more durable, they transmit light well. They are great for building greenhouses for spring-summer use.

More details on how to choose the right polycarbonate for the greenhouse are shown in the video.

The cell structure is closely related to the density of the PC. Sheets with rectangular partitions have a density of from 0.52 to 0.60 g / cm³. The density of square cells reaches 77 g / cm³. Hexagonal polycarbonate, respectively, has the highest density; it is 82 g / cm³.

What polycarbonate thickness is best used for a greenhouse

Polycarbonate thickness is the main factor by which you can choose the right material for the greenhouse. You need to look not too thin or thick sheet. Otherwise, the structural strength and light transmission are reduced. The optimal thickness of a cellular PC for a greenhouse ranges from 4 to 8 mm. The latter is too dense, more suitable for winter construction, poorly transmits light.

To determine which polycarbonate is better, you need to take into account the type of greenhouse, the shape of the roof and many other factors:

1. The climate of the area, the amount of snow and its weight. The maximum load on the structure will depend on this.
2. The direction of the winds in the region and their strength.
3. Greenhouse frame material. Metal structures are more stable, withstand heavy loads. The wooden frame has a lower bearing capacity.
4. The distance between the crate of the frame. The closer the supporting structural elements are attached, the stronger it becomes. You can cover the greenhouse with a less dense PC.
5. Seasonality of landings. If the room will be used only in the spring-summer period, then too thick a PC should not be used. For industrial year-round cultivation, greenhouses are made of denser polycarbonate.

Based on these data, it can be determined that for most regions greenhouses are made of polycarbonate with a density of 6 mm. You can plant vegetables in it throughout the spring-summer season. For the winter version, sheets thicker are selected, about 8-10 mm.

Polycarbonate with a thickness of 4 mm can be called an economical option. Designs with such a coating are used only for domestic needs. They are not suitable for industrial cultivation, since they poorly withstand snow and wind loads, do not retain heat, and after the thaw, an ice crust forms on the walls.

With or without UV protection

Polycarbonate itself is destroyed under ultraviolet rays. Therefore, it is better to cover the greenhouse with sheets with additional protection. It protects against ultraviolet radiation not only material, but also plants that are harmful to hard radiation.

Modern manufacturers in the process of processing the sheet cover it with a thin film, which does not peel off during operation. It is such polycarbonate that will last for decades and retain its strength.

If you choose a Chinese PC without additional protection or with a thin layer, you should not count on a long service life. Maximum 2-3 years, after which the material must be replaced.

Information on polycarbonate protective coating is indicated in special documents. "By eye" to determine its presence is impossible.

What color polycarbonate is best used for a greenhouse

In stores, you can see colored polycarbonate in different shades. Many are advised to cover the greenhouses with red and orange PCs, citing the fact that this spectrum of rays is most favorable for plants. However, it should be understood that the light transmittance of the material is low. He spends no more than 40-60% of the rays, which is very small for the normal development of cultures. There is no need to talk about large yields.

To cover greenhouses, summer residents choose transparent polycarbonate. It transmits light well, all the vital processes of plants pass as needed.

How to choose high-quality polycarbonate for the greenhouse

So, knowing all the characteristics of polycarbonate, before buying you need to decide which one to choose for the construction of the greenhouse. Reinforced sheets are useful for capital construction in regions with difficult weather conditions, where vegetables will be grown all year round. Such a PC must withstand the snow load. In other areas, you can stay on the simpler and cheaper options.

You can measure the thickness of the purchased sheet using a vernier caliper. If there are deviations from the standards, then it is better to refrain from buying such a PC. Its quality is doubtful.

It is possible to determine the presence of ultraviolet protection not only in documents. A thin protective film has a marking explaining which side of the PC will face the sun.

To make a greenhouse, you need to buy the best cellular polycarbonate. After all, cheap materials are produced from recycled materials or with production disruptions. A quality greenhouse will not work out of them. The service life of PC sheets is no more than 2-5 years.

It is important to understand that little-known firms that no one has heard of in the market are unlikely to offer anything worthwhile. It is better to choose polycarbonate of well-known brands for the greenhouse. They are interested in their reputation.

Rating and Comparison of Polycarbonate Manufacturers

Today in the building materials market there are many brands that can offer quality at an affordable price. You can choose the appropriate polycarbonate for the greenhouse or order sheets of custom sizes. In the rating table, the leading positions are occupied by those whose products are most in demand.

The company from Korea, produces an inexpensive, but high-quality cellular PC

Durable, wear-resistant and affordable material of the Russian company

Premium sheets at an affordable price from a domestic manufacturer. PC service life - more than 15 years

Chinese PC at an affordable price and reasonable quality

Chinese PC of medium quality. Sheets life is just over 5 years

More expensive and high-quality cellular polycarbonate is produced by foreign companies. It is suitable for the construction of industrial greenhouses. The table shows the ranking of the most famous brands.

Makrolon by Bayer Material Science

German-quality PCs in high demand and durability

SABIC Innovative Plastics

Material from Saudi Arabia, high wear resistance

Japanese manufacturer, manufactures PCs using the latest technology

Expensive material from America with high density and good reinforcement

Care Tips

It’s easy to look after a polycarbonate greenhouse, but you must follow the basic rules:

1. If necessary, blackout, you can use a solution of chalk. Wash it off the coating with plain water.
2. Disinfection and washing of the coating is carried out with a soft sponge or brush with ordinary soapy water. For deeper cleaning, use chemicals recommended by the manufacturer.
3. In winter, snow with a thickness of more than 10 cm must be removed from the roof of the greenhouse.
4. During the thaw, prevent icing and snow crust.
5. Do not clean the snow with a scraper or other hard tools; you can damage the UV film.
6. Do not wash the coating when it is very hot in the sun.
7. Contact with fats and acid must not be allowed.

It is necessary to wash polycarbonate both from the inside, and from the outside. At the same time, adhere to all the rules described.

What is polycarbonate and its types

To understand the basic properties of polycarbonate, you should get acquainted with this material closer. So, it was discovered back in the 19th century, but then it was considered a side effect of certain chemical reactions. They re-created it and began to use it only in the middle of the 20th century.

Polycarbonate is a colorless plastic, thermoplastic polymer, very durable, lightweight, not afraid of temperature changes, optically transparent. Also, one of its main properties is durability. From an environmental point of view, this material is also very good - the spent polycarbonate is perfectly processed into new material.

On a note! Such properties are given to polycarbonate by the special structure of its molecules. And the layers themselves, which we used to see in greenhouses, are created from special granules. The range of applications of polycarbonate is very wide: with its help, the facade is finished, roofs, barriers, etc. are made from it.

Polycarbonate is monolithic and cellular. The first is a dense sheet that has no internal voids, and the second is a familiar material that has a certain internal structure - honeycombs created thanks to jumpers located between two layers of material.

Cellular Polycarbonate Prices

Of course, cellular polycarbonate is much lighter than monolithic, but it can be different in weight. It is the weight that the density of the material often depends on - the heavier it is, the stronger and more durable it is, which means it better resists the effects of winds and snow pressure. Its mass increases due to the thickness of two sheets fastened with jumpers.

On a note! High-quality polycarbonate will not only be heavier, but also more durable. It serves 2-3 times longer than economy class material.

However, it cannot be said that a certain thickness is used for the construction of greenhouses. Selection criteria often depend on the climatic conditions of a particular region. In addition, each type of material has its pros and cons.

Criteria affecting the choice of polycarbonate.

1. Region of residence. This is one of the most important criteria, since the need to choose a denser or, conversely, finer material will depend on the wind and snow load.
2. Material for the frame of the greenhouse. It is desirable to install a denser and heavier polycarbonate on a metal frame, while light polycarbonate can also be placed on a wooden one.
3. Seasonal operation of the facility. The less greenhouse is used, the less durable polycarbonate is needed. For example, for structures that are only used in spring or autumn, there is no need to buy thick material.
4. The shape of the roof also affects the right choice of material. For example, if snow can roll off of it on its own in winter, then the material can be taken thinner.

Table. The main types of polycarbonate used for the construction of greenhouses and differing in sheet thickness.

Based on this, we can conclude that 8 mm thick polycarbonate can be considered optimal in terms of price-quality ratio. It is from it that you can create a fairly strong, warm and durable greenhouse in a regular garden plot.

Color and honeycombs matter

When choosing cellular polycarbonate, attention should be paid to its structure - it also has a significant impact on its strength, light transmission and quality in general.

On a note! In fact, the honeycomb present in the structure of the material is very important. The fact is that they create an air gap, which allows the greenhouse to retain heat much better.

There are three types of honeycombs.

1. Rectangular. The type of polycarbonate with such honeycombs is used most often. This polycarbonate has low strength, but it also perfectly transmits light and is great for creating small greenhouses.

In order not to spend extra money, you should clearly weigh all the requirements for future construction. There is no point in installing a polycarbonate greenhouse with hexagonal honeycombs in a warm and calm region - these will be unjustified costs. Yes, and such a material allows light to pass worse, which means that it is not suitable for plants, especially photophilous, so you will have to spend money on additional lighting.

Of great importance is the color of cellular polycarbonate. In pursuit of fashion, manufacturers now offer material of almost any color - not only yellow, green, red, but even black. But, choosing polycarbonate by color, it is worthwhile, first of all, to think not about design, but about plants that will live in the greenhouse. It is worthwhile to carefully read the indicator of the light transmission capacity of each type, and the lighting should be as close as possible to the natural level - only in this case it will be comfortable for the representatives of the flora in the greenhouse.

Attention! The light transmission of polycarbonate for plants should be at least 80%.

Not all color sheets meet this requirement. For example, blue polycarbonate absorbs 40% of solar radiation, and bronze - all 60%. It is also worth remembering that colored polycarbonate often passes only a certain part of the spectrum, and there is no guarantee that it will delay only the form of radiation dangerous to plants.

Based on the foregoing, we can conclude that the optimal polycarbonate should be transparent and with square honeycombs. This will be the best solution in combination with a material thickness of 8 mm.

Do I need UV protection?

When choosing polycarbonate, it is important to think about whether it will be protected from ultraviolet radiation.

On a note! By the way, a material having a coating against this part of the spectrum lasts much longer than polycarbonate without such protection.

With constant exposure to UV radiation, microcracks gradually form on the plastic - the so-called photoelectric destruction begins. Gradually, these cracks increase in size, grow together and thereby destroy the polycarbonate sheet.

To prevent this destruction and increase the life of the material, polycarbonate is coated with a special layer that protects from UV rays. A coating is applied on one side, on which there will be a mark indicating that the material is not afraid of this type of exposure. It is with this mark that the sheet is mounted outward during installation work to shelter the greenhouse.

Attention! Polycarbonate without a protective coating begins to collapse in the first year of operation. That is why it is unsuitable for greenhouses in principle.

By the way, on some types of polycarbonate such a coating can be on both sides. But for greenhouses, this will be a waste of money.

Choose polycarbonate

How to choose polycarbonate for the greenhouse, which will meet all the necessary requirements and become optimal? Everything is very simple.

Step 1. Assess the climatic conditions of the region in which you reside. Think about how often strong winds blow in your area, how much snow falls, how many days the weather is warm.

Step 2 Think over the shape and dimensions of the structure that you want to erect at your summer cottage. Remember that for arched greenhouses or structures with steep slopes of the roof, polycarbonate can be taken thinner.

Step 3 Estimate the life of the greenhouse. Will it be used all year round? Or do you plan to grow vegetables in it only in the summer?

Step 4 Think about what crops you will grow in the greenhouse. One needs a lot of light and heat, while others need enough light. The choice of polycarbonate, both in thickness and ability to retain heat, will also depend on this.

Step 5 Going to the store, be prepared to make some measurements yourself. Negligent salespeople can slip you finer material than the one you need. Take a ruler with you.

Step 6 Carefully inspect the sheet you have chosen: it should be intact, have a protective film, stiffeners should be even (not bent or broken).

Step 7 Ask the seller for product certificates. Each polycarbonate must have supporting documents confirming its quality.

Step 8 Check if there is a mark on the protective film that the sheet has UV protection.

On a note! It makes no sense to buy polycarbonate without this protection - it will be a waste of money, since the greenhouse from it will last very short time.

If you are afraid to make a mistake with the choice of polycarbonate, then contact specialists who will accurately calculate the required density and thickness of the material in accordance with the stated requirements. True, their services are not cheap.

Dimensions of the polycarbonate greenhouse, drawing

In this article, you will find many different drawings of the polycarbonate greenhouse with size! We also recommend reading an article on how to make a greenhouse out of window frames with your own hands.

Polycarbonate Manufacturers

Now on the market a large range of polycarbonate from various manufacturers is offered to the buyer.

Table. Characteristic of cellular polycarbonate 4 mm thick from various manufacturers.

In addition to choosing the right thickness of polycarbonate sheets, it is important to buy quality material. To find a reliable and durable, you must first determine the manufacturer. Kinplast company is one of the leading manufacturers of polycarbonate in the domestic market. The material of this manufacturer is of high quality, excellent technical characteristics and operational properties. The following cell polycarbonate grades are used to create greenhouses: WOGGEL - European quality, durable, SKYGLASS - universal material at an affordable price, AgroTITAN and polycarbonate SPECIAL FOR GREENHOUSES - material intended for use in agriculture.

Remember that the choice of polycarbonate thickness for a greenhouse should be at the stage of development of the construction project itself. This will help to imagine how resistant the structure will be to external physical influences. And remember: you should not save on polycarbonate, especially if you live in harsh climatic conditions.

No. 1. The main advantages of polycarbonate

Why is this relatively new material instantly conquered summer residents across the country and with leaps and bounds displaces film and glass from the sites? Reasons for popularity are worth looking at material structure features. Polycarbonate began to be produced on an industrial scale in the 60s of the last century, it was used in many fields of construction and industry, and material suitable for greenhouses appeared a bit later with the filing of Israeli scientists.

For arrangement of greenhouses use cellular polycarbonate only - a monolithic analogue is heavier, does not have sufficient strength and thermal insulation qualities. The material is two or three plates parallel to each other, connected by jumpers. The latter play the role of stiffeners, and the space between them, filled with air, increases the thermal insulation properties of the material. The sheet structure can be single-chamber, two-chamber, etc.

The main advantages of cellular polycarbonate for greenhouses:

• excellent transparency and ability scatter the sun. Through colorless polycarbonate, up to 92% of the sun's rays pass, which positively affects the crops grown. Moreover, the material with a special protective film allows you to protect plants from harmful UV radiation harmful to them,
• light weight. This parameter depends on the thickness of the sheet, but even the thickest material will weigh several times less than the glass analog, which reduces the load on the frame of the greenhouse,
• flexibility and plasticity. Cellular polycarbonate during installation can be bent, creating arched greenhouses,
• not bad mechanical strength. From the impact, the material will not tear like a film, and will not break into fragments like glass. The thicker the polycarbonate selected, the more difficult it will be to break its integrity,
• excellent thermal insulation qualitiesexplained by the honeycomb structure of the material. Heating costs can be minimized. Soundproofing qualities material is also at altitude - on average it can reduce noise by 22 dB,
• resistance to temperature extremes, wind, mold, fire.

Durability high-quality polycarbonate exceeds 10 years, and bona fide manufacturers give a guarantee of up to 15 years. Among cons the material is unstable to sunlight, like any plastic, but thanks to a special film coating, this minus was also eliminated. Cellular polycarbonate has no other significant shortcomings, especially in comparison with other covering materials for greenhouses - the main thing is to buy high-quality material, and not a handicraft.

Typically, cellular polycarbonate is produced in sheets of dimensions 2.1 * 6 m and 2.1 * 12 m, less often 2.1 * 2 m, but the thickness can fluctuate over a wider range (3.5-16 mm), and it is from for the most part, the basic parameters of the material depend on it.

No. 2. Choose the thickness of cellular polycarbonate

Thickness is a determining factor when choosing polycarbonate for a greenhouse. In this matter it is important consider a lot of factors and choose a material that is not too thin, but not too thick: in the first case, the strength decreases, in the second - the light transmission decreases.

The main factors that affect the choice of polycarbonate thickness:

• climate of the region, in particular the height of the snow cover and its weight, which determines the maximum load on the material,
• wind load in the region,
• frame material. The metal frame has better bearing capacity and is able to withstand a higher load than wooden,
• crate pitch. The closer the frame elements of the greenhouse are located to each other, the more durable the structure will be and the less thick polycarbonate may be needed,
• seasonality of use. If the greenhouse will be operated only in the autumn-spring period, then polycarbonate can be selected thinner. For year-round greenhouses, the material is chosen significantly thicker, because it must withstand not only snow and wind, but also retain heat.
• type of construction. If you plan to build an arched, domed or drop-shaped greenhouse, you need to think in advance whether polycarbonate can be bent in a certain way. The thinner the material, the higher the bending radius.

How to choose the optimal thickness, taking into account all these factors? To get the most accurate value, you can contact the professionals. The second option is to buy a ready-made greenhouse, the set already includes polycarbonate of optimal thickness (the type of construction and climatic features are taken into account). An alternative solution is to try to choose the necessary polycarbonate on your own: complex calculations will not be needed, since you can be guided by the practice of using the material, the main parameters of polycarbonate sheets of different thicknesses (in the table below) and regional climate data, which are also easy to get on the network.

Considering different options for the thickness of polycarbonate for your greenhouse, it does not interfere be guided by the following recommendations:

• polycarbonate with 4 mm thick, but it should still be attributed to the economy option. It makes sense to use it only in seasonal greenhouses, otherwise even a small step of the crate (0.5 m) will not save from deformation under the weight of snow. Trying to save on polycarbonate, you have to spend money on reinforcing the frame, and in this case, the design only becomes more expensive. Do not forget that the frame does not transmit light, and the more frequent the crate, the greater the shadow on the plants. It’s not so scary for small greenhouses, but on a production scale it’s a serious minus, because reducing the amount of lighting by 1% reduces the yield by exactly the same amount
• for most regions of the country, the optimal thickness of polycarbonate for the construction of spring-autumn greenhouses is called 6 mm, and for winter greenhouses - a single chamber sheet 10 mm thick,
• arched and domed greenhouses not so much delay the snow cover, which means that less load is applied to polycarbonate. Nevertheless, it is unreasonable to choose too thin material for arched greenhouses - at the time of a sharp cooling after a thaw, a layer of ice forms on the surface of the greenhouse on which snow will hold well,
• too thick polycarbonate it is also undesirable to use, because along with an increase in strength and thermal insulation qualities, the ability to transmit light decreases, as well as the weight increases, so strengthening the structure will be necessary. Through polycarbonate with a thickness of more than 10 mm, 25-50% of sunlight passes, and this is a loss of yield and expenditure on artificial lighting, therefore in private greenhouses it is not recommended to use material with a thickness of more than 10 mm.

If the greenhouse is built on its own, then it is better to determine the thickness of the polycarbonate at the design stage.

Number 3. Cell geometry and polycarbonate strength

Partitions inside the polycarbonate form a honeycomb, the shape of which significantly affects the strength of the material and its load-bearing capacity. The most common options are:

• rectangular honeycombs - the most common material. The bearing capacity is not very high, but the light transmission is maintained at a high level. Such polycarbonate is recommended for use in those greenhouses where artificial lighting is not provided,
• square honeycombs make the material more durable and suitable for the construction of medium-loaded greenhouses,
• hexagonal honeycombs they allow to achieve the highest strength, but greatly reduce the level of light transmission, therefore, for the construction of greenhouses such polycarbonate is used infrequently, and if applicable, it requires the obligatory arrangement of artificial lighting.

Number 4. Polycarbonate color

Having decided on the required thickness of the material and coming to the store, you can find that polycarbonate is available in a whole range of colors. Which one is better? Of course, transparent, because it allows you to provide plants as close as possible to natural lighting, and besides, it allows maximum sunlight. Summer residents who want to get the maximum yield and not spend money on additional lighting, choose transparent polycarbonate.

Painted polycarbonate is not able to provide plants with a sufficient level of light: bronze, opal, yellow and green sheets transmit only 40-60% of the light, so it’s difficult to talk about normal crops. Some summer residents choose polycarbonate in red and orange, citing the fact that the most useful for plant growth is the orange and red range of solar radiation. It is difficult to argue with this statement if we recall the school course in biology and physics, but there is one “but”: fewer useful rays, and their number will not be enough for the normal growth of most cultures, therefore the best choice is transparent polycarbonate.

No. 5. UV protection for polycarbonate

Reading about the positive properties of polycarbonate, you might think that this is an ideal material that does not have disadvantages. Naturally, this is not so. The main minus is the addiction destruction under ultraviolet raysthat start the process of photoelectric destruction on the surface, leading to the formation of small cracks. Gradually, they grow, causing fragility of the panels and their destruction. That is why the material needs additional protection. Hard ultraviolet (in the spectrum up to 280 nm) is harmful to plants, so the protective coating protects not only polycarbonate, but also the crops grown.

Responsible manufacturers use to protect the material special filmapplied coextrusion methodTherefore, during operation it does not exfoliate. Such high-quality polycarbonate can easily last about 10 years. On sale there is a material on which a protective film is applied on both sides, but for greenhouses its use does not make sense. When mounting sheets, it is important to pay attention to the marking and install polycarbonate with a protective layer outward.

Unscrupulous manufacturers (often Chinese) produce polycarbonate without a protective coating at all, or make it symbolic. It is understood that instead of using a film, the simplest additives are introduced into the mass, which should protect the material from solar radiation. Such polycarbonate "lives" for a maximum of 2-3 years, then it will have to be changed, and this again is a waste. Buying initially cheap material, you should think about the consequences three times. Information on the presence of a protective coating should be indicated on the package and in the accompanying documentation, since it is impossible to examine it externally (the thickness is 0.0035-0.006 mm).

No. 6. What does the prefix “light” mean in the polycarbonate marking?

Tricky manufacturers and sellers sometimes mislead buyers by using the designation “light”. To choose such polycarbonate for a greenhouse means to overpay and get material with reduced strength. Often, thinner polycarbonate is sold under the light version, but the price remains standard. Instead of 4 mm it can supply material with a thickness of 3.5 mm, instead of 6 mm - 5.5, 8 mm - 7.5 mm, etc. It seems that the difference is small, but with a decrease in thickness (which means strength and durability), the price does not fall - not the most profitable purchase. In addition, it is not recommended to take polycarbonate for a greenhouse with a thickness of less than 4 mm.

Number 7. Polycarbonate sheets size and material handling features

With a width of 2.1 m, polycarbonate sheets are sold mainly in lengths of 6 and 12 m, a deviation of 3 mm in width and 10 mm in length is allowed. The accumulated experience of many summer residents makes it possible to form a number of tips for the most rational use of material:

• if the greenhouse has an arched shape, then the length of the arches of the power structures is recommended to be 6 and 12 m in order to avoid transverse joints,
• the distance between the supporting elements of the frame is best done so that the joints of the sheets fall on the profile, which increases the strength of the structure,
• during the construction of double-pitch greenhouses it is better to make the walls and the roof such that the polycarbonate sheets are divided without residues.

Polycarbonate increases in size in heat, and decreases in cold. An increase in temperature by every degree causes the material to expand by 0.065 mm / m. This should be taken into account when attaching polycarbonate to the frame, leaving small gaps between the sheet of material and the supporting structure.

Caring for polycarbonate is as simple as possible: it must be washed several times a year, you can use a mild soap solution, but not aggressive agents. The main goal of this care is to maintain a high level of transparency.

Number 8. Polycarbonate manufacturers: who can be trusted?

In order to choose the right polycarbonate and in the future count on its durability, it is important to pay attention to the manufacturer: the fame of his name and duration guarantees (the longer, the better, ideally 10-15 years). When buying does not bother to pay attention to certificates, and it is not recommended to go to the market for polycarbonate - they hardly adhere to the necessary storage conditions.

The products of such companies have proven themselves in the best way:

• BayerMaterialScience - A large German concern working in the field of healthcare, agriculture and high-tech materials. Polycarbonate is produced under the brand name Makrolon, has the highest quality, because the main thing for the company is innovation and its own reputation,
• Sabic Innovative Plastics - A company located in Saudi Arabia produces polycarbonate of several series under the Lexan brand name. The company has always played a critical role in the development and production of new types of polymers. Today the company’s representative offices and enterprises operate in 40 countries, the product range is constantly growing,
• Samyang - A Korean company that produces sufficiently high-quality material under the Trirex trademark. In terms of price and quality, this is a good option, so the products are in great demand among domestic buyers,
• Teijin limited - A Japanese corporation that also constantly carries out new developments and offers increasingly advanced polymers. The polycarbonate of the company is very high quality and durable, but there are few in the domestic market,
• Dow chemical - American manufacturer of polycarbonate Caliber and Magnum ABC. The products are of the highest quality, excellent geometry, good durability, but they are expensive and few are presented on the market.
• Polygal - A Russian-Israeli company that produces polycarbonate under the same name. This is a relatively inexpensive material with a long service life,
• Carboglass - A large domestic manufacturer, which gives a guarantee on products for 15 years, and this inspires confidence. At the same time, the cost of the material is lower than for foreign samples, which ensures the popularity of products,
• Safplast innovative - Another domestic company. It produces polycarbonate under the trademark Novattro, gives it a 14-year warranty, while the products are slightly cheaper than Carboglass,
• Plastilux - Chinese manufacturer of polycarbonate Sunnex. Looking in his direction is worth it only if the main criterion for choosing is a low price. 8 year product warranty,
• Vizor. Polycarbonate of this brand was previously produced in China, today there are factories in the Czech Republic. Average quality, low price, 5 year warranty,
• ITALON - A Chinese company whose products can be advised to those who want to save as much as possible, since its quality is low and the price is more than budget, a guarantee of 5 years.

It is highly discouraged to purchase material from a no-name company - the consequences of such an act are understandable without explanation. Given all the nuances described in the choice of polycarbonate, you can find exactly the material that will be the perfect solution in each case.