How polycarbonate sheets are attached to a profile pipe. How to attach polycarbonate to a greenhouse correctly: basic rules. How to attach polycarbonate to a wooden frame

How polycarbonate sheets are attached to a profile pipe.  How to attach polycarbonate to a greenhouse correctly: basic rules.  How to attach polycarbonate to a wooden frame
How polycarbonate sheets are attached to a profile pipe. How to attach polycarbonate to a greenhouse correctly: basic rules. How to attach polycarbonate to a wooden frame

When people talk about polycarbonate in everyday life, they usually mean sheet thermoplastic polymer material, widely used in modern construction, various industries, advertising and everyday life. There are two types of polycarbonate sheets on the market - monolithic and cellular. Monolithic polycarbonate is a continuous translucent sheet, appearance reminiscent of glass, only much stronger and lighter. Has high impact resistance with good flexibility. Cellular polycarbonate is a hollow sheet, the internal structure of which is a multilayer structure with longitudinal stiffeners.

Polycarbonate sheets have high impact resistance, as well as excellent flexibility.

Monolithic polycarbonate is most often used instead of glass in educational and medical institutions, gyms, and swimming pools. IN shopping centers it is used to equip display cases. Cellular polycarbonate is mainly used in utility and utility buildings. In the field of individual construction and dacha farming this material is used as a covering for greenhouses, greenhouses, greenhouses, translucent canopies and other similar structures. The solution to the question of how to attach polycarbonate depends on the structure in which it will be used and operating conditions.

Methods of fastening monolithic polycarbonate

One of the ways to attach polycarbonate is using thermal washers.

The use of this material instead of glass for translucent fences, partitions, and shop windows also involves fixing it using structures used for ordinary glass. These are either frame structures into which the sheets are inserted and then fastened, or holders various designs, with which the sheets are fixed in the desired position. There are “wet” and “dry” methods of installation and fastening monolithic polycarbonate.

With the “wet” method, a compatible polymer putty is applied along the entire perimeter of the frame and the edge of the material, and the sheet is installed in the frame. The connections are then further treated with silicone-based sealant. It is also possible to use rubber strips or special profile gaskets for complete sealing.

In the “dry” method, only mechanical means fastenings, which use various profiles and other elements in combination with rubber gaskets and profiled seals. In order to secure the sheets using these means, threaded connections (bolts, nuts), screws and other similar elements are used. This method of securing sheets is cleaner and neater. To properly fasten the sheets using both fastening methods, it is necessary to provide clearances for possible thermal expansion of the polycarbonate to avoid its deformation or destruction.

Before installation, it is necessary to drill holes in the polycarbonate sheets for fastening to the frame.

The use of monolithic polycarbonate as translucent coverings in frame structures (in greenhouses, conservatories, verandas) both vertically and on the roof allows the sheets to be attached to the frame using conventional fasteners (bolts, screws, self-tapping screws) using rubber sealing washers. The fastening step along the frame should be approximately 500 mm.

It is necessary to pre-drill holes in the sheets with this pitch. From the edge of the sheet, the hole must be at least 20 mm and 2-3 mm larger than the diameter of the fastening element to compensate for thermal changes in the dimensions of the sheet. It is convenient to drill holes in polycarbonate using wood drills at low speed, controlling the heating of the drilling area. Fastening according to the rules ensures a tight fit of the sheets to the frame, but without excessively tightening the fasteners. The pressing force of the sheet and the size of the hole for the fastener should not prevent the “temperature” displacement of the sheet.

Methods of fastening cellular polycarbonate

The easiest way to attach this type of polycarbonate is point fastening. Self-tapping screws with special thermal washers are used for it. This ensures reliable fastening of the sheets, sealing of the fastening point, elimination of the “cold bridge” and prevention of sheet collapse. All this is ensured by the use of a thermal washer, consisting of a plastic washer with a leg, a sealing washer and a cover that covers the hole for the self-tapping screw.

The leg of the plastic washer should be equal to the thickness of the sheet, and the hole in it for the leg should be 2-3 mm larger than its diameter. In sheets long length The holes for the legs are made oval along the stiffening ribs. The sheet fastening pitch is about 400 mm. It is unacceptable to tighten the screws very tightly until the sheet crumples. Self-tapping screws are installed no closer than 40 mm from the edge of the sheet.

The panels, laid in several rows over a large coverage area, are joined together using special joining profiles.

With their help, the edges of the panels are also secured. Profiles are either one-piece or detachable. The permanent profiles are fastened to the frame using self-tapping screws with thermal washers, similar to the point fastening of sheets. The edges of the panels are clamped with profiles, and, if necessary, they are attached to the intermediate elements of the frame using the point method.

The detachable profile for fastening polycarbonate has two parts - the “base” and the “cover”. The “base” is attached to the frame with self-tapping screws in increments of approximately 300 mm. The panels are laid so that each one extends into the “base” by approximately 20 mm. The profile “cover” is installed on the base and snaps into place when pressed or lightly struck with a wooden (plastic) mallet. Detachable profiles are made of both polycarbonate and aluminum.

In addition to joining profiles, there are also special profiles for fastening panels in places where the frame configuration changes. To attach the panel to the wall, a wall profile is used. In order to connect and secure the panels at an angle to each other, corner profiles are used. And to design the ridge on the roof, a ridge profile is used. Unlike wall and corner ones, it can be mounted under different angles according to the roof slope.

What you need to firmly remember

In all cases of joining panels together, with connecting profiles and other structural elements, you should remember to change linear dimensions polycarbonate under the influence of ambient temperature. In order to properly fasten the panels and prevent their deformation and breakage, it is enough to provide thermal gaps in all places without exception of possible contact of the polycarbonate with neighboring elements. In practice, a minimum gap of 3.5 mm is established for each meter of panel length in any direction. Clamping of panels with fasteners, which leads to temperature stress, is unacceptable.

Holes for fasteners in cellular polycarbonate should be drilled in the middle between the partitions, but in no case in the partition itself. For cellular polycarbonate 4-10 mm thick, the use of thermal washers for point fastening is mandatory. It is recommended to fasten panels with a thickness of 16 mm or more in ways that exclude the use of thermal washers, for example, using special profiles. Special components allow you to correctly fasten the structure and give it beautiful view and ensure durability.

How to fix polycarbonate correctly


The question of how to attach polycarbonate is inextricably linked with the structure in which it is used. Options for fastening monolithic and cellular polycarbonate are discussed in detail in this article.

How to attach polycarbonate to a wooden frame?

Polycarbonate is an inexpensive, but practical and durable polymer translucent material that has recently been widely used in construction. It is used to create roofs for gazebos, canopies, the construction of greenhouses and greenhouses, decorative glazing, as well as advertising structures and elements of urban infrastructure. Polycarbonate, with its ultra-light weight, has a high load-bearing capacity, so it can be mounted on a base made of inexpensive wood or a more durable metal profile. In this article we will tell you how to properly attach polycarbonate sheets to wooden frame to avoid damage to the material.

Features of the material

Polycarbonate - modern construction material, it belongs to the group of polymer thermoplastics, which includes carbonic acid and bisphenol A. It has high light transmittance up to 92%, which is not inferior to that of silicate glass, flexibility, high load-bearing capacity and strength, as well as low thermal conductivity. The following types of polycarbonate are produced:

  • Monolithic. Polycarbonate plastic monolithic type looks like normal silicate glass. He has smooth surface, high transparency (up to 92%). Technical and performance characteristics This material is much superior to glass, as it retains heat better, is much stronger and more durable. Monolithic polycarbonate is attached to the frame only in one plane, since it bends worse than cellular polycarbonate.
  • Cell phone. Honeycomb-type polycarbonate plastic differs from monolithic plastic in its cellular structure with internal stiffeners filled with air. It has lower thermal conductivity, is lighter in weight, bends better, but is considered less durable. Cellular polycarbonate can be attached to a metal or wooden frame, as it is suitable for creating shaped, curved structures.

Important! Experienced craftsmen note high strength, wear resistance and durability polycarbonate plastic in conjunction with affordable price and light weight. To maximize the potential of this practical material, it is necessary to strictly adhere to the technology of installing the coating to the base.

Fastening rules

To create a roof, canopy or other polycarbonate structure, you need to create a reliable frame. A material belonging to the group of thermoplastics, at high bearing capacity It is light in weight, so it can be mounted on wood or metal. Use of wooden supporting elements reduces construction costs while reducing the service life of the structure. When installing polycarbonate on a frame made of natural wood experienced craftsmen It is recommended to follow the following recommendations:

  1. When creating a design project and cutting the material, it is necessary to take into account that condensate should flow through the cells of cellular polycarbonate and then evaporate.
  2. When attaching polycarbonate plastic to a pitched structure, the stiffening ribs should be located along the slope; with vertical glazing - vertically.

Note! The service life of polycarbonate plastic, depending on the quality and type of material, is 10-25 years, and a wooden frame without special treatment will last no more than 5-10 years. To prevent rotting and deformation of the wood, the frame is impregnated with antiseptic agents.

Required Tools

Polycarbonate fastening among professional builders It is considered an easy task that even an inexperienced master can handle. The advantage of this material is that working with it does not require expensive equipment or special tools. To fix polycarbonate sheets to a wooden frame you will need:

  • Polycarbonate. Standard width a sheet of this material is 2100 mm and the length is 3, 6 or 12 m.
  • Drill with a set of drills. For installation outdoors it is easier to use electric models with a powerful battery.
  • A screwdriver or screwdriver to tighten the fasteners.
  • Galvanized self-tapping screws with washer and rubber seal. The rubber seal seals the hole made in the material, and the washer protects the polycarbonate from cracking while tightening the fasteners.
  • A connecting strip that is used to tightly connect sheets of material to each other.
  • Tape for insulating the ends of polycarbonate plastic, necessary to protect against moisture penetration.
  • Hammer, nails and 5 cm thick timber, impregnated with an antiseptic composition, for installing the frame.

Please note! Professional craftsmen never use nails, rivets or washers of too large a diameter to fasten polycarbonate. In order not to damage the material, which also expands under the influence of temperature, the screws are not tightened completely, leaving a gap of 1-3 mm.

Fastening technology

Before attaching sheets of polycarbonate plastic from wooden beam impregnated with an antiseptic composition, the frame is assembled. The elements are placed so that there is a support under each joint of the sheets. Attaching polycarbonate to wooden base is done as follows:

  1. Carry out cutting of sheets, cutting into right size using a circular saw or special knife. The incision is made strictly between the stiffeners.
  2. The first sheet of polycarbonate is placed on the frame so that it protrudes forward by 0.3-0.5 mm. Before installation, the ends of the sheet are protected with a special sealing tape.

Note! If you follow the rules for fastening polycarbonate plastic and recommendations for preparing a wooden frame, such a structure will withstand even intense loads, lasting at least 15-20 years.

How to attach polycarbonate to a wooden frame


How to properly attach polycarbonate to a wooden frame? Features of working with the material and rules for installing polycarbonate plastic on a wooden base

How to properly attach polycarbonate

  • Fastening monolithic polycarbonate
  • Installation of cellular polycarbonate
  • Fastening panels
  • One-piece profiles
  • Split profiles
  • General recommendations

Today, polycarbonate is becoming more and more popular in industries such as construction, advertising, and mechanical engineering. The variety of colors, strength, flexibility and easy installation of the material attract many people. There are two types of this material: monolithic and cellular polycarbonate. Fastening cellular polycarbonate is slightly different from fastening monolithic one.

Installation diagram of sealing tape at the end of the panel.

Often, owners of private houses do not want to involve third parties and want to do all the installation work themselves. In this case, the question inevitably arises: how to fix polycarbonate? Next, the nuances and installation rules of each type will be discussed.

Fastening monolithic polycarbonate

For work you will need the following equipment:

  • roulette;
  • building level;
  • electric jigsaw or circular saw;
  • drill;
  • drill;
  • screwdriver;
  • polycarbonate sheets;
  • self-tapping screws;
  • gaskets;
  • thermal washers;
  • silicone sealant.

So how to properly attach polycarbonate?

On a prepared inclined frame or pitched design Polycarbonate can be installed using a “dry” or “wet” method.

“Wet” fastening is carried out using polymer putty, which is distributed along the perimeter of the frame. Then a polycarbonate sheet is laid on it, leaving gaps (about 2 mm) for temperature changes, and pressed firmly against the base, removing all excess putty. Instead of polymer putty, you can use rubber strips (gaskets).

Scheme of a fence made of monolithic polycarbonate.

The sheets are secured at the corners or along the longest sides. The peripheral part (joints) is processed silicone sealant. To give the structure a more finished look, the silicone can be sealed wooden planks or plastic corners. This fastening method is used for wooden or metal frames.

When attaching monolithic polycarbonate to heavy-duty steel frames, to seal the inside and outside, a rubber seal is first laid, and then a layer of sealant is applied.

The “dry” installation method is more widespread. It looks much neater and cleaner. It is used over large coverage areas. In this case, profiles, seals and covers with rubber gaskets are used, and adhesive materials are not used. All connections are made using bolts, nuts and screws.

This method of fastening is practiced in the case of installing partitions, soundproof barriers or light gateways. The system is arranged in such a way that moisture falling on upper layer protection, did not reach the internal gasket and flowed down the drainage channels.

When designing, it is necessary to pay attention Special attention aspect ratio of the structure. The most the best option for glazing is a square. If the shape is rectangular, then with increasing size parallel sides the strength of the sheet decreases, and the load placed on it increases in direct proportion to the increase in length.

Monolithic polycarbonate has a high coefficient of thermal expansion, as a result of which it is necessary to leave large gaps that will prevent deflections and distortions of the sheet.

Diagram of the device of cellular polycarbonate.

Polycarbonate differs from glass in that it bends greatly. But this will not affect the glazing. All deflections will disappear after the loads are removed. Flexible plastic requires a deep fit and enlarged grooves. This will help to securely seat the polycarbonate and avoid the sheet falling out during strong deflections.

Installation of cellular polycarbonate

Cellular polycarbonate is used for the construction of pitched or arched roofs with a slope of 25-30% (at least 11%).

This material is easy to drill and cut. Cellular polycarbonate, which has a thickness of 0.4-1.0 cm, can even be cut with a knife. But for a straight, smooth cut, it is better to use a circular saw or jigsaw.

When attaching cellular polycarbonate to the roof, ordinary drills are used for drilling. Holes are drilled between the ribs at a distance of no less than 4 cm from the edge. To prevent vibration, the sheets must be held when cutting. After cutting, all chips and debris are removed from the panel cavities.

The ends are sealed with profiles made of aluminum or polycarbonate, similar in color. Such profiles are distinguished by their durability and strength. They are tightly fixed at the edges and do not require additional fastening. If the profile is not perforated, holes are drilled in it to drain condensed moisture.

The upper ends of cellular polycarbonate, installed vertically or obliquely, are sealed with aluminum tape, and the lower ends are closed with perforated tape, which prevents the penetration of dust and ensures the removal of condensate.

In an arched structure, both ends are covered with punched paper tape. Leaving the end open reduces its durability and transparency.

Installation diagram of cellular polycarbonate.

It is strictly prohibited to seal the ends of the sheet with tape and hermetically seal the bottom edges!

In a sheet of cellular polycarbonate, stiffeners are located along the length of the panel, so the structure is built so that the moisture condensed inside flows through the channels and is discharged out:

  • if the installation is vertical, then the stiffeners should go vertically;
  • if pitched - along the slope;
  • in an arched design, the ribs are arranged in an arc.

The permissible value of the bending radius must be indicated in the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.

Fastening panels

Cellular polycarbonate is fixed to the frame point by point using self-tapping screws and thermal washers.

The thermal washer is a sealing washer made of plastic on a leg with a height corresponding to the thickness of the panel and a lid with a latch. This ensures the reliability and tightness of the panel fastening. The thermal washer leg adjacent to the frame prevents the panel from collapsing. The hole for it should be slightly wider to protect against thermal expansion. The distances between fastenings are 0.30-0.40 m.

To prevent deformation of the sheet, it is prohibited to fasten the panels rigidly or overtighten the screws!

To install cellular polycarbonate with your own hands, use detachable or one-piece, colored or transparent polycarbonate profiles.

One-piece profiles

The panels are inserted into a special groove in the profile, which must correspond to the thickness of the sheet. The profile is attached to the support using self-tapping screws and thermal washers.

Split profiles

Scheme of fastening a one-piece profile.

The detachable profile consists of a “base” and an upper snap-on cover. To mount the split profile, a few holes are drilled in the “base” bigger size than the diameter of the screw in increments of 0.30 m. Then the profile is attached to the frame support. Sealant is applied to the “base”, the sheets are laid, taking into account a thermal gap of up to 5 cm, the profile cover is placed on top and snapped into place using a wooden mallet. The ends are closed using a special plug.

To fasten cellular polycarbonate at right angles, corner profiles should be used. They will hold the panel perfectly and hide flaws in the corner joint. When the sheet is adjacent to the wall, a wall profile is used. For the roof ridge, purchase a ridge profile with a grip of up to 4 cm. It will firmly connect the sheets with any thermal expansion.

When installing polycarbonate panels, thermal expansion must be taken into account. Light or transparent sheets heat up less than colored sheets by 15%!

  1. The surface of cellular polycarbonate is very sensitive to mechanical influences. Therefore, there is no need to remove the protective film from the sheet when attaching.
  2. Do not clamp the polycarbonate too much.
  3. Small holes drilled in the profiles from below help natural circulation air. In most cases this will be sufficient to prevent steam condensation in the ducts. The end on top should close tightly.
  4. Before installation, the material must be kept for several days in a dry room. Then the ends are sealed with aluminum tape. If there is moisture in the panels, it can be removed by blowing the honeycombs with compressed air.
  5. Do not lay vapor-proof materials on top of cellular polycarbonate (for example, various films). The evaporated moisture will form a thin water layer between the film and the polycarbonate. As a result, bubbles may appear, the film may peel off, or the metallized layer may turn black.
  6. The design of cellular polycarbonate roofs must take into account a slope of at least 5° (approximately 9 cm per 1 linear meter) to ensure rainwater drainage.
  7. Walking on the panels is strictly prohibited. If necessary, boards are used, which should rest on several edges of the panel.
  8. Whenever possible, sheets should be stored in a room isolated from external natural factors. Intense hit sunlight may lead to the surface of the sheet sticking to the film.

Having made the correct calculation of the amount of materials at the design stage and following the above instructions, installing the structure and fastening the polycarbonate with your own hands will not cause any problems.


How to attach polycarbonate? This question is asked by many owners of private houses. There are “dry” and “wet” methods.

How to attach polycarbonate: methods, instructions

Polycarbonate is a modern thermoplastic polymer material, produced in the form of sheet blanks of a given size and widely used in industry and everyday life in the manufacture and finishing of light-duty structures. Products made from thermoplastic polymers can be divided into two groups, one of which is monolithic polycarbonate, and the other is cellular.

Cellular

Polycarbonate products are manufactured in the form of a homogeneous sheet material, resembling ordinary glass. Like glass, they do not block light rays, significantly surpassing it in terms of strength and reliability. In addition, products of this class are characterized by high resistance to impact loads, as well as ductility and flexibility of the source material.

Cellular polycarbonate is produced in the form of multilayer sheet blanks with internal voids, reinforced with special stiffeners. Thanks to this original structure, products made from cellular polycarbonate are distinguished by high impact strength, which does not prevent them from being quite flexible and easy to install.

Monolithic

Note that monolithic polycarbonate is widely used as a glass substitute in institutions of various profiles, including trading enterprises, schools, hospitals, gyms and swimming pools. In addition, in recent decades this material has been successfully used in the construction suburban buildings light type (greenhouses, greenhouses and greenhouses).

Sheet installation methods

Frame for polycarbonate

The main method of fastening monolithic polycarbonate products is to use special thermal washers to fix them.

Note also that load-bearing frame, on which polycarbonate sheets can be mounted are standard designs used for plain glass:

  • frames with special grooves used as fastening areas for sheet material;
  • arched structures involving the installation of polycarbonate sheets with a diametric bend;
  • holders of various types, ensuring the fixation of sheets in a given position.

Regardless of the type of base used, there are two methods of installing and fastening monolithic polycarbonate, conventionally called wet and dry.

Docking profiles

In accordance with the first of these methods, the material is fixed to the frame using a special polymer putty applied around the perimeter of the frame structure, as well as on the edge of the sheet. After their articulation, the seams of the resulting connection are additionally sealed using silicone filler. With this installation option, the use of special profile gaskets (or rubber strips) is also allowed.

Corner profile

With the so-called dry leaf planting method, mechanical elements fastenings represented by profiles of one type or another and used in conjunction with rubber sealing gaskets. To fix sheet blanks in this case, fasteners with threaded connection, as well as self-tapping screws or similar elements. The dry method of fastening sheet blanks is more accurate due to the absence of liquid components.

With any of the fastening methods we have considered, when laying sheets, thermal gaps should be provided to exclude the possibility of deformation of the material during its expansion.

Installation procedure

Before you start fixing the sheets on the frame, you will need to prepare (drill) holes in them according to the size of the fastener you have chosen.

Fasteners

For vertical and horizontal fastening of monolithic polycarbonate sheets in greenhouses, on verandas and greenhouses, standard bolted connections, equipped with rubber sealing washers. In this case, the step of their fastening to frame base should not exceed 500 mm.

Veranda roof

Marking and drilling of holes for fasteners is carried out immediately before installing them in a previously prepared place.

The distance from the edge of the mounted sheet should be about 20 mm; Moreover, its value should exceed the hole diameter by 2 – 3 mm.

Scheme of fastening cellular polycarbonate

To prepare holes in polycarbonate, standard wood drills can be used; in this case, direct drilling of a hole should be carried out at low speeds of the tool used, providing the ability to control the temperature of the working area.

Installation

Proper fastening of sheets to the frame involves the formation of a well-fitted connection, ensuring their tight fit to the seat.

How to attach polycarbonate - various methods


This article has all the information about fasteners that are used to work with polycarbonate.

Polycarbonatemodern material. It is very different from other types of materials. When working with it, it is necessary to use connection profiles, end profiles, washers, tapes as additional materials; this will provide protection so that moisture, debris, and insects do not penetrate.

If polycarbonate panels are installed correctly, their service life increases. Profiles for polycarbonate weigh little, do not allow light to pass through and are of excellent quality.

To properly and competently fasten any object, you need several components:

  1. End profiles.
  2. Connecting profiles.
  3. Ridge profiles.
  4. Corner profiles.
  5. Wall profiles.
  6. Thermal washers.
  7. Anti-saw tape.
  8. Sealing tape.

The end profile covers the edges of sheets of material. This is done so that later layers of dirt, dust and moisture do not accumulate in the middle of the sheets. When using a profile, take thermal tape, which is used to seal the upper edges of the panel. When using pitched and arched glazing, the lower edges of the panel are sealed before installing the end profile.

The connecting profile is made from polycarbonate to match the desired color of the panels. Dense and durable sheet joints have a relatively low price.

Tools you will need:

  • bar;
  • a pair of polycarbonate sheets;
  • sledgehammer;
  • nails;
  • screws;
  • washers;
  • bolts;
  • drill;
  • fastenings;
  • self-adhesive;
  • roulette;
  • file;

What can I use to attach it?


Polycarbonate is fixed:

  1. Thermal washers.
  2. Profiles.

If you have chosen thermal washers as an option for fastening, then you will need to make holes in the plates a little larger than the washer itself, so that it fits tightly into the hole and snaps into place. Its length is the same as the plate itself. The washer has a small rubber seal, it secures and does not allow dust and moisture to pass through.

The edges of the panels in the profile are secured with self-tapping screws or thermal washers.

There are profiles:

  • detachable;
  • one-piece;
  • butt;
  • special;
  • corner;
  • wall;

It is better to decide which method to choose yourself, taking into account all the tasks that the structure will perform.

Mounting methods

Polycarbonate- This is a hollow sheet, in its middle there are many layers with stiffening ribs. On the shelves of markets and shops they sell 2 types of polycarbonate sheets: monolithic and cellular.


This material is good to use instead of glass for fences through which light should flow. In most cases, these are large frames into which sheets are then inserted and secured using holders. There are two types of installation of polycarbonate: “wet” and “dry”.

When installing using the wet method, you need to apply polymer putty on all sides of the frame. After this, the sheet should be placed in a frame. Then seal all connections with sealant. You can use rubber strips or special profile gaskets to completely seal the sheet.

With the dry method, you need to use mechanical fasteners, which have a set of parts with rubber gaskets. Bolts, nuts, and screws are used to fasten sheets. This method is the cleanest and neatest.

To properly fasten the sheets in both cases, you need to make gaps. The gaps are made so that when the polycarbonate is heated, the structure itself does not deform or collapse.

Before work, drill holes in the sheets in increments of 500 mm. Near the edge it is best to make an additional indent of approximately 20 mm. It is best to drill with wood drills.

Using them you can make neat and smooth holes. Monitor the heating of the area at the drilling site. Correct fastening will ensure high-quality adhesion of the slabs to the frame. The fasteners should not be over-tightened.

This is the most in a simple way fixation. Its design uses self-tapping screws with special thermal washers. As a result, well-screwed sheets are obtained. The legs of the washer should be the same thickness as the sheet, and the holes for it should be slightly larger. The edges of the panels are secured with screws.

There are detachable and one-piece profiles. One-piece ones are fastened with self-tapping screws and thermal washers. The detachable one is made of two parts: the “base” and the “cover”. Attach the “base” to the frame with self-tapping screws at a distance of 300 mm from each other. Install the “cover” and snap it into place when pressed.

Mounting to wood and metal


To begin, prepare a block with an approximate thickness of 5 cm.

It is made into a frame shape using a hammer and nails. A wood-based frame is suitable for a porch or greenhouse roof. After the frame is made, attach the sheets to the wood with self-tapping screws and washers.

To attach polycarbonate to a wooden base, thermal washers are not needed. Possible mounting option using ordinary materials. The first sheet should be firmly fixed. You should start from the edge of the frame. The end edge should extend slightly beyond the frame. Sheets should be fastened one by one after complete completion of all work related to fastening the previous one.

Before attaching polycarbonate to metal, purchase the required number of washers.

Installation occurs according to the following principle:

  1. Make holes in the plates. They should be done in the places where the frame is attached.
  2. Lay the canvas on the frame and fix it. It is better to do this work together. One person cannot both hold and secure it.
  3. After installation is complete, cover the thermal washers with protective caps.
  4. Remember that you need to place the sheets so that they do not touch the metal.

Installation of polycarbonate is done vertically to the location of the metal ribs. When making polycarbonate boards, a protective film is glued to both sides. The first side is with drawings, and the second is always white or colorless.

The plates can be installed not only at right angles, but also in their normal position. The corners will be strong and neat.

Nuances of work


It doesn't matter at what angle you position the panel or sheet of polycarbonate. You need to place it so that the cavities in the middle are in vertical position. When making a canopy or curved roof, place the cavities parallel to the main curve. In places of inclination, the ducts should be directed towards the inclination.

When installing, be careful - the material is fragile and can break easily.

Many builders know how to attach polycarbonate, and also know the steps of the purlins and diagrams. Point fastening is the easiest way to install sheets. For installation, self-tapping screws with thermal washers are used.

When using them, you will get reliable, hermetic connections between the sheets. Choose those leg elements that are the same thickness as the panel itself. If the design large formats, use larger sheets. Experts advise fixing the sheets every 30-40 centimeters. If you install it more often, then the price of the structure will be more expensive.

Polycarbonate is similar in appearance to glass. The transparency of the sheets provides good protection from sunlight. Polycarbonate is characterized by good flexibility and light weight. It can be used at temperatures from -40 to +120 degrees.


Sheet production- a very difficult stage, this requires the constant work of complex mechanisms with enormous settings and adjustments.

The production of strong, stable sheets is ensured by the work of specialists who have great experience in your business. The quality of the sheet can be affected by the slightest deviation from the standards.

When installing the plates, remove only the bottom protective film from them. Do not remove the protective film prematurely - this will damage the plate.

The film can only be removed after the installation is complete. If you don't do this right away, it will be very difficult to remove the film later.

Polycarbonate should be stored in separate room with low temperature.

When installing polycarbonate, do not place it horizontally; it is better to place it vertically. Drill holes before attaching the sheet. Do not forget about the distance from the screw to the edge of the sheet (at least four centimeters).

It is best not to bend the sheet, because cracks and breakages may occur. They may not appear immediately, for example, during operation, during sudden temperature changes, under the weight of snow, or the action of wind. Try to handle the materials carefully because they are fragile and susceptible to damage.

Polycarbonate today is widely used in the construction of advertising structures, greenhouses, fences, roofing, canopies and so on. This material is in demand due to its high strength, transparency, lightness, flexibility, resistance to temperature changes, durability and environmental safety. In this article we will look at how to attach polycarbonate to metal in order to obtain maximum reliability the buildings.

Types of polycarbonate fastening

Fastening of the material can be point, profile or mixed. For point fastening, thermal washers are used to secure the sheet to the frame, the manufacture of which takes into account wind and snow loads. The fastening elements should have a distance of 30-40 cm. The disadvantages of this type of fastening include the loss of attractiveness with inside, due to the fact that the profiles used to connect do not always coincide with the frame.

For profile fastening they are used connection profiles made of aluminum or polycarbonate. They are fixed to the frame and then used to insert blanks. The disadvantage of such fastening is that if the calculated load is exceeded, the panel, which was fixed only along the perimeter, can fall out of the grooves.

At mixed form fastenings combine the two above-mentioned types to avoid disadvantages.

Rules for using the material

Let's take a closer look:

  1. Polycarbonate should be stored in a dry, ventilated area, away from heating devices. Do not use plastic film to cover it. The stack of sheets should not exceed 2.5 meters. The sheets are laid on flat surface, UV protection facing up (you can see the markings on protective film).
  2. The protective film should only be removed when the installation work is completely completed.
  3. Together with polycarbonate, you can use polyethylene, Teflon, polypropylene, silicone, polychloroplen and neoplene. They do not destroy polycarbonate.
  4. Use with polycarbonate is contraindicated acrylic sealants, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, as well as sealants based on benzathide and amines. These materials are incompatible with the one in question.
  5. The material can be used at temperatures from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius.

What is used for fastening?

When fixing polycarbonate to metal, the following components can be used:
  1. Profiles. It is possible to use different types - end, corner, connecting, wall, ridge.
  2. Thermal washers and mini washers.
  3. Plugs.
  4. Adhesive tapes for gluing ends (solid and perforated).
  5. Profile seals.

The end profile allows you to protect the edges of the plate, while the short stick should be placed on the outside.

The connecting profile connects the edges of the sheets. It should be understood that only detachable profiles can be attached to the frame.

The corner profile is designed to connect corners.

Using a wall profile, the sheet is pressed tightly against the wall. It can also be used as an end profile.

Using a ridge profile, you can connect sheets at the roof ridge, but only if they are connected at an angle of more than 90 degrees.

Thermal washers are:

  • individual (have a length equal to the thickness of the plate);
  • universal (suitable for any thickness of material, they do not have a leg);
  • Mini washers are designed for sheets with small thicknesses.

Caps are used to make the structure more attractive and protect the ends from moisture, insects and dust.

About the connecting profile

This profile is used to attach polycarbonate sheets to each other, as well as to the frame. They are produced with a thickness equal to the thickness of the sheets.

When the profile is inserted into the gap, be sure to leave 3 mm between them. This gap resists deformation of the structure when the sheet expands in the sun.

There are detachable and one-piece profiles. The sheet is inserted into the groove and fixed. You can use profiles of different sections made of polycarbonate, aluminum or plastic.

Panel orientation

Polycarbonate has stiffening ribs that are located along the length of the panel. The structure will be very strong if the hollow channels are positioned correctly.

Let's look at the basic rules:

  1. If the panel is installed vertically, the channels must be vertical.
  2. When making an arc-shaped structure, the bending line should run parallel to the channels.
  3. For inclined structures, the channels should be located in the direction of the slope.

Polycarbonate is available with an ultraviolet protective film. It contains information regarding the recommended placement of this material. During installation, you do not need to remove the film, which will greatly simplify the work.

Tilt angle

When using polycarbonate for flat roof required angle of inclination. If the length of the structure is more than 6 meters, make a slope of 5 degrees. If the length exceeds 6 meters, the angle of inclination is increased.

How can you bend the arch?

The bending radius of the arch should not be higher than 20 mm of the material used.

Each type of material in question has its own characteristics on the protective film. These data should be used as a guide.

Let's consider the relationship between the minimum permissible radius and sheet thickness:

How can you cut polycarbonate?

There should be no vibration during cutting of the material in question, and chips must be removed after cutting.

For cutting you can use the following tools:

  • with a construction knife, if the sheet thickness is no more than 10 millimeters and there is a small amount of work to be done;
  • jigsaw (considered the most acceptable option);
  • a high-speed saw with a stop (the teeth of this tool should be small, hard-coated and not spread in different directions);
  • a band saw, the width of which does not exceed 20 mm, thickness - up to 1.5 mm, with teeth spaced in increments of no more than 3.5 mm, with a cutting speed of no more than 1000 m/minute.

How to drill holes?

Basic drilling rules:

  1. The drill should be sharpened at an angle of 30 degrees.
  2. Drilling is carried out at right angles, the speed should not exceed 40 m/min.
  3. The hole size must exceed the diameter of the fastener by 3 millimeters.
  4. It is necessary to take breaks while working with the drill to prevent it from overheating and to remove chips from drilling.

Sealing the edges of the plate

The ends of the polycarbonate panels are covered with temporary tape, which must be removed before sealing begins.

The top edge is sealed with continuous adhesive aluminum tape. And to seal the bottom edge, use perforated tape.

If the end does not fit into a groove or other profile, a trim profile is attached directly to the tape.

For the lower profile, the holes should be at a distance of 300 millimeters to allow condensation to drain.

All edges of arched structures are sealed in the same way as the lower ones.

How to attach honeycomb polymer to metal?

Transportation of cellular polycarbonate slabs, that is, those with numerous grooves, must be very careful.

Such material should not be placed in a room with high humidity. Before using this material, you need to carefully check whether there is moisture in the honeycombs. Even if there is a small amount of condensate, it must be removed by blowing with compressed air. For this purpose, you can use turbo-gas blowers or fans with cold air flows.

It is important to know: For attaching honeycomb carbonate to metal frame you need to use elements with a galvanized tip or a stainless steel drill. It is very important to use sealing rubber washers or thermal washers.

Fasteners should be located at a distance of 40 to 60 centimeters. The self-tapping screw is screwed in at a right angle, without applying strong pressure at the final stage of screwing, so as not to deform the surface.

Attaching a monolithic polymer to metal

The use of monolithic plastic is most suitable for obtaining durable transparent partitions, ceilings, windows and other elements.

Attaching cast polycarbonate to a metal frame occurs by inserting it into special frames, followed by their fastening.

Large canvases can be placed on a frame and then connected to each other with profiles and adhesive. You can also attach them to the frame using self-tapping bolts and other elements.

Fixation can be wet or dry. The first method involves a polymer lubricant, which is laid along the edge of the material. After this, the slab is fixed in the frame and the resulting seams are treated with silicone-based sealant. Sometimes rubber or silicone gaskets may also be required.

With the dry method, fastening occurs in almost the same way as in the case of honeycomb sheets. Self-tapping screws with gaskets, profiles and overlays are used.

How to prepare metal?

The metal frame, which will then be sheathed with polycarbonate, must have a foundation. It is better if it is monolithic, but a point one will do.

It is equally important to properly prepare the metal. If there are carious lesions of various types, they are cleaned and the metal is polished. It is also necessary to clean all joints and seams obtained during welding.

How to handle polycarbonate?

It is important to understand that contact of polycarbonate with bare metal has an adverse effect on the material. For this reason, you need to prepare a large number of silicone and rubber gaskets.

The material plates should be handled with care, without removing the protective film. Working surface must be clean and have the required size so that the edges of the sheets do not hang from it, and dust and moisture do not get into the ends of the plates.

You should start cutting and drilling only after the fastening locations have been calculated and markings have been made.

Attaching polycarbonate to wood

For comparison, consider the scheme for attaching the material in question to wood:

  1. The sheet is placed on the frame, and holes for fasteners and screws are made with an electric drill. When drilling, hold the drill perpendicular to the surface. It is better if the holes are oval, elongated along the length of the plate. It is important that the washer completely covers the hole.
  2. Next, other panels are laid and secured. The panels on the doors and ends are attached last.
  3. The edges of the sheets are sealed with thermal tape or profile. If necessary, you can use a sealant to additional processing joints

Typically, honeycomb polycarbonate plates are used for fastening to wood. Before this, the tree must be treated with a special agent against rotting and bugs.

Wet method of fastening to wood

This fastening method would be better suited, if monolithic polycarbonate is selected.

The plates are cut so that between them and wooden frame there was a gap of 2 mm on each side. The material must be well pressed to the surface so that there is no vibration.

On wooden frame(in its grooves) sealant is applied.

The plate is then placed in the frame and pressed. For additional fixation of sheets, planks made of wood and plastic are used.

Durable, lightweight and flexible translucent polycarbonate is widely used in construction and construction of structures for various purposes. The advantages of the material include resistance to temperature changes and safety for health. The durability of polycarbonate largely depends on compliance with installation technology. It is important to correctly attach polycarbonate to a metal frame or wooden base to prevent deformation of the material under loads and thermal expansion. The installation method is selected based on the frame material and the characteristics of the structures being built.

Veranda with polycarbonate roof

Monolithic and cellular polycarbonates are suitable for the manufacture of arched and pitched canopies, canopies and verandas. The affordable cost of honeycomb sheet and its ability to withstand high loads (the indicator depends on the number and location of stiffeners) makes the material suitable for the manufacture of greenhouses and greenhouses for private use and for industrial cultivation yields in greenhouse farms.

When preparing to install translucent material on the frame, pay attention to the following points:

  • In cellular polycarbonate, stiffeners are located along the length of the sheet. When installing the panel vertically or at an angle, the hollow channels should be oriented from top to bottom, in free-form designs - parallel to the bends.
  • On the outside of the polycarbonate sheet, designed for outdoor use, a special coating is applied that prevents the destruction of the polymer under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Protective film with markings front surface do not remove until installation is complete, so as not to confuse which side of the panel should be facing outward.
  • The material is not designed for increased snow loads, so the minimum angle of inclination of the slopes for a length of up to 6 meters should be 5 degrees. The longer the slope, the greater the angle of inclination. In this case, both the rigidity of the sheet and the pitch of the sheathing should be taken into account.
  • For arched structures, the permissible bending radius should not be greater than 150 times the thickness of the polycarbonate.
Types of cellular polycarbonate for roofing

Preparation for installation

At the preliminary stage, you should prepare necessary tools and materials, mark and cut the panels in accordance with the project, protect the ends of the prepared elements.

Used for cutting polycarbonate:

  • Assembly knife. Can be used for small volumes of work; the recommended sheet thickness is up to 10 mm.
  • Hand hacksaw for metal.
  • High speed saw. Mandatory conditions are the presence of a stop, carbide, not set apart small teeth of the blade.
  • Jigsaw.
  • Band saw with tape up to 20 mm wide and up to 1.5 mm thick. In this case, the tooth pitch should not exceed 3.5 mm, and the cutting speed should not exceed 1000 m/minute.
It is necessary to ensure conditions under which cutting will not be accompanied by vibration of the panel.

Remove shavings and a strip of protective film from the ends of the prepared cellular polycarbonate elements. If the panel will be fixed vertically or at an angle, it is necessary to determine the upper end and seal it with a special solid aluminum tape. The lower end is covered with perforated tape. The arched structure has both lower ends, so they are protected with perforated tape. This protection prevents dust and insects from entering the channels, condensation and mold growth.


Protecting the material from moisture and dust

If the sealed ends remain free after installation (according to the design), then they are covered with a special end profile. Holes are pre-drilled in the lower profile through which condensate will drain. The hole pitch is 30 cm.

At the preparation stage, you need to choose an installation technology. Sheets of monolithic material can be joined using glue. For cellular panels it is better to use a special connecting profile made of aluminum or polycarbonate. You also need to choose how to mount the polycarbonate. Manufacturers offer various fasteners for fixing sheets to the sheathing.


Docking and end profiles

Fasteners

The speed, convenience, quality of installation and durability of the structure are influenced by the choice of fasteners. Please pay attention to the following parameters:

  • characteristics of the self-tapping screw (fasteners are selected depending on the material of construction - metal or wood);
  • material of manufacture and parameters of the washer.

Self-tapping screws can be sold complete with washers or purchased separately. If polycarbonate glazing is required wooden structure, you should choose wood screws as fasteners. It is recommended to fasten cellular polycarbonate to a metal frame using self-tapping screws with a galvanized tip or a stainless steel drill tip.


Various fasteners

Polycarbonate thermal washers

Washers made of the same material are produced especially for fastening polycarbonate sheets, which allows you to choose an option that perfectly matches the color - such fasteners look aesthetically pleasing and are not conspicuous.

Thermal washer consists of the following elements:

  • convex upper part with a wide leg and a hole for a self-tapping screw;
  • elastic polymer seal (ring);
  • screw hole plug.

The height of the thermal washer leg must be selected based on the thickness of the panel. The leg limits the pressure, due to which the sheet is fixed tightly, but without pinching. Thanks to this, the glazing remains smooth even when heated under sun rays.


Rules for fastening with a thermal washer

The thickness of the leg affects the choice of drill used to make the hole for the fasteners. The diameter of the hole should be 3 mm larger than the diameter of the leg to prevent deformation of the sheet elements during thermal expansion.

Polycarbonate thermal washers are the most practical and attractive option for decorative structures. Given that correct installation they hermetically close the mounting hole and securely fix sheet material on the frame. The service life of polycarbonate thermal washers is about 20 years.

Polypropylene thermal washers

The polypropylene thermal washer is also a polymer cap with a hole for a self-tapping screw and a plug that presses tightly to the surface sheet covering sealing ring. This product is different from a polycarbonate washer:

  • less elastic seal, which is made of foam plastic;
  • lack of a leg on the washer;
  • lack of coating that protects against ultraviolet radiation;
  • opacity and a relatively small range of colors.

Since the washer does not have a leg, fasteners should be screwed on carefully so as not to overtighten. Polypropylene washers fade in the sun within a few years, lose color and begin to deteriorate. A small selection of colors and the lack of an exact match with the material limit the use of fasteners - it is suitable for hidden places and for indoor structures, for the installation of greenhouses and greenhouses made of thin polycarbonate, designed for 3-4 years of operation.


Thermal washers made of polypropylene

The advantage of polypropylene washers is their affordable cost - they are cheaper than polycarbonate ones. This type is designed for fasteners with a thickness of 6 mm. Accordingly, holes in the sheets must be made with a 9 mm drill to maintain the thermal gap during installation.

Other types of washers

If not special requirements In addition to the aesthetics of the design, polycarbonate sheets can be secured to the frame using ordinary flat wide washers. At the same time, for indoor structures it is enough to use a thin rubber seal; for outdoor structures, a thick elastic seal is required to prevent moisture from entering the mounting hole in the polycarbonate.

Concave disc washers made of stainless or galvanized steel, complete with umbrella gasket made of foamed polymer or thick EMDP rubber. Such fasteners allow you to securely fix the polycarbonate coating on a metal frame if you need to build a structure with large area glazed surface in the region with strong winds. To fasten the washer with the gasket, use self-tapping screws or bolts, preferably resistant to corrosion, since the head of the fastening element remains open to precipitation.


Stainless steel disc washers

Stainless steel disc washers have a serious advantage over conventional flat ones - they are able to ensure the tightness of the mounting hole.

Connecting sheets together

In the simplest cases, sheets

polycarbonate can be overlapped, but this option will not ensure the tightness of the canopy or greenhouse. Therefore, the following options for joining panels together are used::

  • gluing using a silicone-based composition (primarily this is an option for monolithic polycarbonate);
  • use of one-piece profile;
  • use of a split profile.

Installation via split profile

Profiles are also used to connect glazing to walls or other structures. When inserting the edges of the sheet into the profile, you need to ensure that there is a gap of 2-3 mm along the entire length for thermal expansion of the material.

Polycarbonate fastening

Let's look at how to properly attach polycarbonate to a greenhouse frame. Back to top installation work you need to have sheets cut to size with sealed ends, a suitable profile for joining the sheets and fasteners, having calculated how many self-tapping screws with washers of the appropriate type are required. The frame of the structure must be designed for the atmospheric loads that it will experience after glazing.

Polycarbonate can be fixed in a point-by-point manner. Each sheet must be screwed to the sheathing with metal screws, installing them in increments of 300–400 mm. The panels are laid with an overlap (the width of the overlap is at least 200 mm, and it must be placed on the rafters) or a one-piece profile is used to connect them. It is recommended to calculate the size of the elements in such a way that the connecting profile falls on the rafters of the frame; this will increase the rigidity of the glazing and make it more aesthetically pleasing.

What kind of lathing is needed for polycarbonate

A small canopy or canopy can be mounted using only a split profile - each sheet will be securely fixed on both sides. But this option is not suitable for a greenhouse, since the surface area is large and it experiences serious wind and snow loads. In addition to the split profile, each sheet must be attached to the sheathing with self-tapping screws and washers.

Rules for installing fasteners

The most convenient way is to measure the frame and mark the polycarbonate sheets on the ground in order to make holes in them that are 2–3 mm in diameter larger than the thickness of the self-tapping screw or the thermo washer leg. After drilling the holes, maintaining the required distances between the fastening points, it is necessary to remove the chips.

To lift the sheets to the top of the structure and align them there, you will need the help of a partner. Through the holes made in the polycarbonate in the metal frame, a hole is drilled with a thin drill, and then using a screwdriver, a self-tapping screw is screwed into the metal, having first put a washer on it.

To properly secure the sheet material, the screws must be screwed in at a right angle relative to the frame element. The polycarbonate should be attached tightly, but without indentation, so for people without the skill of such work it is easier to use thermal washers with legs. After completing the fastening and making sure that the installation is correct, put plugs in the thermal washers.


Fastening rules

Knowing how and how to attach polycarbonate to a metal frame, you can mount a glazed structure of any complexity. If you carry out the work according to the instructions, the structure will last long term without losing aesthetic appeal.

When installing a cellular polycarbonate coating, it is necessary to consider:

  • standard panel sizes and their economical cutting.
  • exposure to wind and snow loads.
  • thermal expansion of panels.
  • permissible bending radii of panels for arched structures.
  • the need to complete panels mounting elements(connecting and end profiles, self-adhesive tapes, self-tapping screws, thermal washers).

The standard width of the panels is 2100 mm. The length of the panels can be 3000, 6000 or 12000 mm. Stiffening ribs are located along the length of the panel. The edges of the panels along their long side should be located on the supporting frame supports. Therefore, longitudinal supports are installed in increments of 1050 mm or 700 mm (+ gap for the distance between the panels). To connect the panels to each other while simultaneously fastening them to the longitudinal supports of the frame, it is necessary to use special connecting profiles. The panels should be secured to the transverse sheathing with self-tapping screws equipped with thermal washers.

In principle, you can mount the entire panel, but practice shows that it is more harmonious and more reliable design from panels with a width of 1050 and 700 mm. When installing them, a smaller number of thermal washers are used, and sometimes you can do without point fastening altogether.

The correct choice of the pitch of longitudinal supports and transverse sheathing is the most important condition for the reliability of a structure made of cellular polycarbonate.

2. Neutralization of thermal expansion.

When the ambient temperature changes, cellular polycarbonate panels are subject to thermal deformation. When designing and assembling a structure, it is not at all difficult to calculate and take into account the degree of change in the linear dimensions of the mounted panels, but it is absolutely necessary that when mounted, the panels can shrink and expand by the amount they require without causing any damage to your structure.

The change in the length (width) of the sheet is calculated using the formula:
∆L = L x ∆T x Kr
where L is the length (width) of the panel (m)
∆T - temperature change (°C)
Kr = 0.065 mm/ °C - coefficient of linear thermal expansion of cellular polycarbonate.
For example, with a seasonal temperature change from -40 to +40°C, each meter of the panel will undergo a change by ∆L = 1x80x0.065 = 5.2 mm.

It should be taken into account that colored panels heat up 10-15°C more than transparent and white ones. ∆L for bronze panels can reach 6 mm for each meter of their length and width. In areas with less severe climatic conditions, the change in the linear dimensions of the panels will, of course, be significantly lower.

It is necessary to leave thermal gaps when connecting and fastening panels to each other in a plane, as well as in corner and ridge joints, using special connecting, corner and ridge profiles for installation. When point-fastening panels to the structure frame, it is advisable to use self-tapping screws with special thermal washers, and the holes in the panels must be made slightly larger (see section "Point-fixing panels")

It is impossible to install structures outdoors without taking into account the thermal deformation of the panels. This can lead to their warping in the summer and damage to the point of rupture in the winter.

Distance between rafters N, mm Sheet thickness, mm
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5. Orientation of panels during design and installation.

Internal stiffeners are located in cellular polycarbonate along the length (which can be up to 12 meters). The panel in your design must be oriented in such a way that the condensate formed inside it can flow through the internal channels of the panel and be discharged outside.

When installing vertical glazing, the stiffening ribs of the panels should be located vertically, and in a pitched structure - along the slope.
In an arched structure, the stiffeners must follow an arc.

Take these installation conditions into account when designing, calculating the number of panels, cutting them and, of course, during installation.
For outdoor use, cellular polycarbonate with a protective UV-stabilizing layer applied to the outer surface of the sheet is used. The protective film on this side of the sheet has a special marking. To avoid mistakes, the panels must be mounted in film and removed immediately after installation.

  • You cannot bend panels to a radius less than the minimum bending radius specified by the manufacturer for a panel of the thickness and structure you have chosen.
  • The rules for panel orientation must not be violated.

6. Cutting panels.

Cellular polycarbonate and polycarbonate sheets very easy to cut. Sheets with a thickness of 4 mm to 10 mm are cut using a knife, but for better and straighter cutting it is recommended to use high-speed saws with a stop, equipped with a blade with fine, unset teeth reinforced with carbide. The sheets must be supported during cutting to prevent vibration. Can be cut with an electric jigsaw

After cutting, it is necessary to remove chips from the internal cavities of the panel.

7. Drilling holes.

For drilling, standard sharp metal drills are used. Drilling is done between the stiffeners. The hole must be at least 40 mm away from the edge of the panel.

Drill characteristics:
Sharpening angle - 30
Drilling angle - 90-118
Cutting speed - 10-40 m/min.
Feed speed - 0.2-0.5 mm/rev.

8. Sealing the ends of the panel.

It is necessary to properly close the ends of the panels. When the panels are in a vertical or inclined position, the upper ends are hermetically sealed with continuous aluminum self-adhesive tape, and the lower ends are sealed with perforated tape, which prevents the penetration of dust and ensures condensate drainage.

IN arched structures It is necessary to cover both ends with perforated tape:

To seal the ends, polycarbonate profiles of similar color or higher quality aluminum profiles are used. They look great, are very comfortable and are just as durable. The profile design provides for tight fixation at the ends of the sheet and does not require additional fastening.

To drain condensate, drill several holes in the profile with a thin drill.

  • The ends of cellular polycarbonate should not be left open. Sheet service life and translucency are reduced.
  • You cannot seal the ends with regular tape.
  • The lower ends of the panels cannot be hermetically sealed.
9. Point fastening of panels.

For point fastening of cellular polycarbonate to the frame, use self-tapping screws and special thermal washers.

The thermal washer consists of a plastic washer with a leg (its height corresponds to the thickness of the panel), a sealing washer and a snap-on lid. They will ensure reliable and tight fastening of the panel, and will also eliminate the “cold bridges” created by self-tapping screws. In addition, the leg of the thermal washer, resting against the frame of the structure, will prevent the panel from collapsing.

To compensate for thermal expansion, the holes in the panel should be 2-3 mm larger than the diameter of the thermal washer leg, and if the panel is long, they should be elongated. The recommended step for point fastening is 300-400 mm.

  • The panels cannot be rigidly fastened.
  • Do not use nails, rivets, or inappropriate washers to fasten panels.
  • Do not overtighten the screws.

10. Connection of polycarbonate panels.

For the installation of cellular polycarbonate, one-piece or detachable transparent and colored polycarbonate profiles are used.

Installation sequence:

  1. In the “base”, drill holes with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the self-tapping screw in increments of 300 mm.
  2. Attach the “base” to the longitudinal support of the frame with self-tapping screws and lay the panels on both sides, leaving a “thermal gap” of 3-5 mm, having previously coated the profile with sealant.
  3. Snap the profile “cover” along its entire length using a wooden mallet. It is recommended to close the end of the profile with a special plug.

11. Corner connection of panels.

If it is necessary to interface cellular polycarbonate panels at right angles, you can use corner polycarbonate profiles. Corner polycarbonate profiles securely hold the panels and allow you to make gusset unnoticeable.

Transparent, tinted: “bronze”, “blue”, “green”, “turquoise”, “brown”, “yellow”, “red”, “orange” and light-diffusing “white opal” - the standard color range of polycarbonate profiles for cell phone installation polycarbonate, but corner, ridge and wall profiles, unfortunately, are only available in transparent ones.

12. Connection to the wall.

When panels are adjacent to the wall use wall polycarbonate profile. Its shape resembles English letter F. When using a wall profile, polycarbonate panels (cellular, cellular) are covered with a sealed tape to protect the sheets from dust and moisture. After this, the sheets are inserted into the profile and it is fixed to the wall.

13. Interfacing of panels in the ridge.

"Wings" of the ridge polycarbonate profile They have a powerful grip - 40 mm - sufficient for reliable connection of panels and their thermal expansion, while it is possible to set almost any angle of mating of the panels. Be sure to use sealing tape before use. After installing the sheets, you need to secure them pointwise. roofing screws through the ridge profile in increments of 30-40 cm.

When using other profiles, make sure that they meet these installation conditions.

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