Cellular and monolithic polycarbonate - how to mount. How to attach solid polycarbonate to a metal frame The better to screw polycarbonate

Today polycarbonate is very popular, which is easily explained by its characteristic qualities. The material is light and flexible, transparent like glass, and strong like metal. In addition, polycarbonate is able to withstand temperatures from -45 to +120 0 C.

In this regard, the use of polycarbonate has a fairly wide range. It is great for making arched and domed canopies, various canopies and stair railings, advertising structures, greenhouses and fences.

Panels orientation

The stiffeners of polycarbonate sheets are distributed along the length. To achieve maximum structural strength, the hollow channels must be correctly positioned:

If the panel is installed vertically, then the channels are arranged vertically.
In arcuate structures, the channels should be parallel to the bend line.
In structures of an inclined type - in the direction of the slope.

In the manufacture of external structures, polycarbonate should be used, which on the outside has protection from ultraviolet rays in the form of a film of special substances. The manufacturer indicates all the necessary information on it. For the correct positioning of the polycarbonate sheets, the film is not removed during the installation process.

Tilt angle

Polycarbonate flat roofs must have a certain angle of inclination. If the length of the structure does not exceed 6 meters, then the slope can be 5 degrees. Otherwise, the tilt angle must be increased.

Permissible bending of a polycarbonate arch

On the theoretical side, the bending radius of the arched structure can be no more than a value that is 150 thicknesses of the material used.

For each type of polycarbonate on a protective film, the manufacturer indicates the corresponding parameters. Therefore, it is best to focus on this data.

Polycarbonate Cutting Tools

It is best to cut polycarbonate with special tools:

Panels no more than 1 cm thick are cut with a construction knife. However, for large volumes of work, it is better not to use such a tool.
The most readily available tool is a jigsaw.
If there is an opportunity to purchase a high-speed saw with an emphasis, then you should pay attention to the teeth of the blade. They should be shallow, undiluted and coated with a hard alloy.
When cutting polycarbonate with a band saw, it is also necessary to know the relevant parameters. It is allowed to use a tape no more than 2 cm wide and no more than 1.5 mm thick. The teeth should be spaced no more than 3.5 mm and the cutting speed should not exceed 1000 meters per minute.

Before cutting, the polycarbonate sheet should be firmly fixed to avoid vibration. Any chips that have formed during the cutting process must be removed immediately.

Hole drilling rules

In the case when increased transparency of the fastening is required, you can use a polyurethane-based glue. However, before using it, the surfaces to be glued are degreased with isopropyl alcohol.

Varieties of fasteners for attaching polycarbonate to metal

Point fastening for polycarbonate to the metal frame is performed using thermal washers. The distance between the fasteners should not exceed 30-40 cm.

This method has one drawback, inside the room the appearance may not be very attractive. This is due to a mismatch between the connecting profiles and the frame.

Profile fastening implies fixing aluminum or polycarbonate connecting profiles to a metal frame, into which the panels are subsequently inserted. In this case, you need to know how polycarbonate is attached to metal.

The disadvantage of this method can be called the exit of the panel from the grooves with an increased load on the polycarbonate surface.

Mixed polycarbonate mounting involves the use of both options in order to compensate for their shortcomings.

Panel fixing materials

To solve the problem of how to attach polycarbonate to metal, you need to use the following:

Various types of profile, including end, corner, connecting, wall and ridge.
Fasteners in the form of thermal washers and mini-washers.
Different types of plugs.
Adhesive tape for ends, including perforated tape for bottom edges.
Profile seals.

Types of profiles and their purpose

End profiles are used to protect the edges of the polycarbonate, and the short shelf is always located outside.
Connecting profiles can be detachable universal or solid H-shaped. They are designed to join the edges of the panels. It is important to remember that only split profiles can be attached to the frame.
The corner profile allows the elements to be joined at right angles.
The wall profile makes it possible to tightly adhere the panel to the wall. Can be used as an end profile.
The ridge profile is required to connect the panels on the ridge of the roof, provided that the elements are connected at an angle greater than 90 °.

Varieties of thermal washers

Fastening of polycarbonate to metal is carried out with different types of thermal washers. These fasteners can differ in the following ways:

Design features make it possible to highlight individual and universal thermo washers. In the first case, the element has a length in accordance with the thickness of the sheet, which prevents the polycarbonate from being pinched or deformed. The second option does not have a leg, therefore, it can be used for material of any thickness.
Depending on the material of manufacture, the fasteners can be made of stainless steel (for covering large areas), polycarbonate (ensuring a tight connection without damaging the panel), polypropylene (for working indoors or in the shade).
Mini-washers are used for lightweight panels.

Plugs

To make the structure attractive, and to protect the ends of the profiles from the ingress of water, dust and insects, it is necessary to use plugs.

How to properly mount panels on a canopy

Under the influence of high temperature, some change in polycarbonate may be observed, therefore, certain installation rules must be observed:

Mandatory presence of gaps.
Enlarged mounting holes.
The use of thermal washers.
Application of special types of profiles.

To perform a high-quality installation of the panel, you need to take care of the correct storage of the purchased material:

Lay the sheets on a flat surface with a protective film facing up.
The stack height should not exceed 2.5 meters.
Store the material in a dry ventilated area away from heating appliances.
It is not recommended to cover the material with polyethylene.

In addition, it should be remembered that the protective coating is removed from the panel only at the end of the installation work.

The quality of work largely depends on the compatibility of the materials used. Therefore, it is not allowed to use polyurethane, PVC, amine and acrylic based sealant with polycarbonate.

When drafting the frame, one should take into account the various types of load, temperature effects, the size of the material used, the permissible bending radius, the direction of the wastewater. It is very important to know through what distance the polycarbonate should be fixed.

The optimum temperature for working with polycarbonate is in the range from +10 to +20 0 С.

If it is necessary to move on the surface of the material, support should be used, the length of which is about 3 meters, and the width is 0.4 meters. It is best to cover them with a soft cloth.

If you want to remove any glue residue after removing the protective film, you can use a neutral detergent. After cleaning, you can wipe the surface with a soft cloth.

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 decoration of light-type structures. Products made of thermoplastic polymers can be conditionally divided into two groups, one of which is monolithic polycarbonate, and the other is honeycomb.

Polycarbonate products are made in the form of a homogeneous sheet material that resembles ordinary glass in appearance. Like glass, they do not trap light rays, significantly surpassing it in terms of strength and reliability. In addition, products of this class are characterized by high resistance to shock loads, as well as the ductility and flexibility of the starting material.

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

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

Methods of mounting sheets

The main method of fixing monolithic polycarbonate products is to use special thermal washers to fix it.

We also note that the supporting frame on which polycarbonate sheets can be mounted are typical structures used for simple glass:

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

Regardless of the type of base used, there are two ways of mounting and fixing monolithic polycarbonate, conventionally called wet and dry.

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

In the so-called dry method of planting a sheet, mechanical fastening elements are used, represented by profiles of one type or another and used in conjunction with rubber gaskets. To fix sheet blanks in this case, fasteners with a threaded connection are used, 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 the sheets, thermal gaps should be provided to exclude the possibility of deformation of the material when it expands.

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.

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

The marking and drilling of holes for fasteners is carried out immediately before their installation 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.

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

Competent fastening of sheets to the frame assumes the formation of a well-fitted connection, ensuring their snug fit to the seat.

Video

Correct installation method for cellular polycarbonate and tips for choosing fasteners:

A few years ago, polymer plastic was considered almost a curiosity, but today this material is widely used in everyday life, in the advertising sphere, in various industrial sectors and in construction. Polycarbonate is indispensable in individual construction, and especially in civil and industrial. For the construction industry, polycarbonate is produced in two types - honeycomb and cast. At the same time, the strength of the connection depends on how much the polycarbonate was fastened according to the correct technology, and therefore the durability and reliability of the entire structure.

Methods for fixing monolithic canvases

Since this type of polycarbonate replaces glass in showcases, partitions, windows and other translucent fences, it is attached using the same elements as glass. These can be holders in different designs, with the help of which the polymer sheet is fixed in the desired position, or a frame structure into which the cut elements are inserted and then fastened. There are dry and wet fixing methods for the cast material.

Fastening of monolithic polycarbonate to the frame by the wet method is carried out as follows: on the part of the material that will be in contact with the frame, and the perimeter of the frame, a polymer putty is applied, compatible with both the canvas and the frame material. After that, the joints are treated with a sealant. Full sealing can be achieved by using specially designed profile gaskets or by using rubber strips.

The dry method involves only a mechanical connection. These can be different types of profiles, or other elements. They can also be combined with rubber seals and gaskets. To fasten polycarbonate sheets in this way, different types of threaded connections are used. The dry type of installation of the canvases is the neat and cleanest, which is sometimes very important.

On a note: Regardless of the method of installing cast sheets, it is imperative to take into account the fact of thermal expansion and take a sheet that is a couple of millimeters less than necessary.

This will help to avoid further destruction or deformation of polymer plastic webs.

Using cast polymer for the construction of verandas, greenhouses, greenhouses and other frame structures, you can not think for a long time about how to fix polycarbonate, but attach the sheets with ordinary fasteners using rubber sealing washers: the main thing is to know, as a rule, through what distance to make holes ... It is not difficult to remember the fixing step: you need to prepare holes every 45-50 cm in advance. This distance is enough to securely fix the polycarbonate panels. It is advisable to make holes in cast panels with wood drills. During work, you need to control the drilling area in order to prevent it from heating up. During installation, the sheets should adhere tightly to the base, but it is undesirable to tighten the bolts too much, so that a temperature gap in the finished structure is possible.

Methods for attaching cellular webs

Point connection

Today, many consumers already know how to fix cellular polycarbonate, the pitch of the purlins and the layout of the fasteners. Since point fixing is the easiest way to install honeycomb sheets, it is also the most popular. For this, self-tapping screws are used, which are equipped with thermal washers. Their use makes it possible to obtain a reliable, airtight connection of canvases, prevents sheets from crushing, and eliminates "cold bridges". All this ensures the use of thermal washers. The main thing is to choose elements, the leg of which is equal to the thickness of the canvas used. If the structure is large and the sheets are used of long length, then on their long side it is necessary to make oval holes along the stiffeners.

Those who are building or are just planning to build structures made of polymer plastic on their site are usually interested in how and through what distance to drill polycarbonate. Manufacturers recommend and experienced builders confirm that it is best to fix the sheets after 35-40 cm. If installed more often, the cost of the structure will increase significantly, if less often, this does not guarantee either the quality of the connection or its reliability.

To make holes in honeycomb sheets, it is necessary to use sharp standard drills with the following characteristics:

Drilling angle - 90-115.
Sharpening angle - 30.
The feed rate is 0.3-0.5 mm / rev.
Cutting speed - 15-35 m / min.

In this case, the holes should be made no closer than 4 cm from the edge and in no case should they fall on the stiffeners.

Connection by profiles

Polycarbonate can be fixed using special profiles and the familiar thermal washers and self-tapping screws, especially since the structure can be installed in this way even to the wall of the building. The connection for different types of profile is different. So, if a split model is used, then first its base element is installed on the rafter system, on the surface of which a sealant is applied, after which canvases are laid on both sides, the gap between which can be up to 4-5 cm. ... After that, it remains to close the ends with a special plug.

Good to know: If one-piece profiles are used, first the canvases are connected to each other, and then they are mounted on the finished frame.

When joining, the profile is pulled and put on a polycarbonate sheet.

Is it possible to mount sheets horizontally if polycarbonate welding is foreseen and are washers needed? This is the first question of interest to everyone who builds or plans to erect structures made of polymer plastic on their site. It depends on the choice of the welding method, which in turn also depends on the size of the product, the purpose and shape of the parts.

The connection of individual elements using hot air welding, when using a welding rod, foresees drying for 12 hours of those areas on which the operation will be carried out. You can connect parts and ultrasonic welding, the amplitude of which should be from 25 to 40 microns.

Many do not really think about how to weld polycarbonate, but they connect the nodes by welding with a hot pad. This method allows all parts to be connected in the most reliable way. The connection is made at a temperature of 260 to 300 ° C.

Fastening polycarbonate

Fastening of polycarbonate is carried out as follows ... It is possible to fasten cellular polycarbonate using the same elements as ...

How to properly fix polycarbonate

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

Today, polycarbonate is becoming more and more popular in industries such as construction, advertising, 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. The fixing of cellular polycarbonate is slightly different from the fixing of a monolithic one.

Diagram of the installation of the sealing tape at the end of the panel.

Often, the owners of private houses do not want to attract third-party organizations and want to do all the installation work with their own hands. In this case, the question inevitably arises: how to fix polycarbonate? Further, the nuances and rules of installation of each type will be considered.

Fastening monolithic polycarbonate

For work, you will need the following inventory:

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

So how to fix polycarbonate correctly?

On a prepared frame of an inclined or pitched structure, polycarbonate can be installed "dry" or "wet".

"Wet" fastening is carried out using a polymer putty, which is distributed along the perimeter of the frame. Then a sheet of polycarbonate is laid on it, leaving gaps (about 2 mm) for temperature changes, and strongly pressed against the base, removing all excess putty. Rubber strips (gaskets) can be used instead of polymer putty.

Fence scheme from monolithic polycarbonate.

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

In the case of fixing monolithic polycarbonate to steel heavy duty frames, for sealing inside and outside, first a rubber seal is placed, and then a layer of sealant is applied.

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

This method of fastening is practiced in the case of installing partitions, soundproof barriers or light gates. The system is arranged in such a way that moisture, getting on the upper layer of protection, does not reach the inner lining and flows down through the drainage channels.

When designing, special attention must be paid to the aspect ratio of the structure. The best option for glazing is a square. If the shape is rectangular, then with an increase in the size of the parallel sides, the strength of the sheet decreases, and the load exerted 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, which will exclude bending and distortions of the sheet.

Diagram of a cellular polycarbonate device.

Polycarbonate differs from glass in that it bends a lot. But when glazing, this will not affect. All deflections will disappear after the loads are removed. For flexible plastic, a deep fit and enlarged grooves are required. This will help to securely plant the polycarbonate and prevent the sheet from falling out with 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 with a thickness of 0.4-1.0 cm can be cut even 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, conventional drills are used for drilling. Holes are drilled between the ribs at a distance of at least 4 cm from the edge. To eliminate vibration, the sheets must be held while cutting. After cutting, all chips and debris are removed from the panel cavities.

The ends are sealed with aluminum or polycarbonate profiles of the same 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 without perforation, holes are drilled in it to drain the condensed moisture.

The upper ends of cellular polycarbonate, installed vertically or obliquely, are sealed with an aluminum tape, and the lower ends are closed with a perforated tape, which prevents the ingress of dust and ensures the drainage of condensation.

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

Installation diagram of cellular polycarbonate.

It is strictly forbidden to glue the ends of the sheet with tape and tightly close the bottom edges!

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

if the installation is vertical, then the stiffeners must go vertically;
if pitched - along the slope;
in an arch-like structure, the ribs are arranged in an arc.

The permissible bending radius must be stated in the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.

Fastening panels

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

The thermal washer is a plastic sealing washer on a leg with a corresponding height of the panel and a lid with a latch. It ensures the reliability and tightness of the panel mounting. The leg of the thermal washer adjacent to the frame prevents the panel from crushing. The opening for it should be slightly wider to protect against thermal expansion. The distance between the fasteners is 0.30-0.40 m.

To prevent deformation of the sheet, it is forbidden to fix the panels rigidly or overtighten the self-tapping screws!

To install cellular polycarbonate with their 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.

Detachable profiles

Fixing scheme of one-piece profile.

The split profile consists of a "base" and an upper snap-on cover. To mount the split profile, holes slightly larger than the diameter of the self-tapping screw are drilled in the "base" with a step of 0.30 m. Then the profile is attached to the frame support. A sealant is applied to the "base", sheets are laid, taking into account a thermal gap of up to 5 cm, a profile cover is placed on top and snapped into place with a wooden mallet. The ends are closed with a special plug.

For fixing cellular polycarbonate at a right angle, use corner profiles. They will hold the panel perfectly and hide the flaws of the gusset. When the sheet is adjacent to the wall, a wall profile is used. For the ridge of the roof, a ridge profile is obtained with a grip of up to 4 cm. It will firmly connect the sheets with any thermal expansion.

Thermal expansion must be taken into account when installing polycarbonate panels. Light or transparent sheets heat up less than colored ones by 15%!

The surface of cellular polycarbonate is very sensitive to mechanical influences. Therefore, it is not necessary to remove the protective film from the sheet when fastening.
It is impossible to clamp the polycarbonate too much.
Small holes drilled in the profiles at the bottom facilitate natural air circulation. In most cases, this will be sufficient to prevent steam condensation in the ducts. The top end must close tightly.
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 honeycomb with compressed air.
Do not lay vapor-proof materials (for example, various films) on top of cellular polycarbonate. The evaporated moisture will form a thin aqueous layer between the film and the polycarbonate. As a result, bubbles may appear, the film peels off or the metallized layer may turn black.
Design of roofs made of cellular polycarbonate should take into account a slope of at least 5 ° (approximately 9 cm per 1 m) to ensure the drainage of rainwater
Walking on the panels is strictly prohibited. If necessary, boards are used, which must rest on several edges of the panel.
As far as possible, the sheets should be stored in a room isolated from external natural factors. Intense exposure to sunlight can cause the surface of the sheet to stick 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 fixing the polycarbonate with your own hands will not cause any problems.

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

How to fix polycarbonate

Panel cutting

Cellular polycarbonate and polycarbonate profiles easy to cut. For the best cut, use high-speed circular saws with an emphasis and a carbide-reinforced fine, undisturbed blade. When cutting the panel, the profiles must be firmly supported to avoid vibration. Cutting with a band saw is possible.

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

Drilling holes

Drill characteristics:

Sharpening angle - 30

Drilling angle - 90-118

Cutting speed - 10-40 m / min.

Feed rate - 0.2-0.5 mm / rev.

Panel end sealing

It is necessary to properly close the ends of the panels. With the vertical and inclined position of the panels, the upper ends are hermetically closed with a solid aluminum self-adhesive tape, and the lower ones - with a perforated tape that prevents the penetration of dust and ensures the drainage of condensate.

In arched structures, it is necessary to close both ends with a perforated tape:

Use similar in color polycarbonate profiles... They are aesthetic, comfortable and reliable. The design of the profile provides for tight fixation at the ends of the panel and does not require additional fastening.

To ensure the drainage of condensate, drill several holes in the profile.

Do not leave the ends of cellular polycarbonate open.

Do not glue the ends with ordinary tape.

Do not seal the bottom ends of the panels hermetically.

Orientation of panels during design and installation

Internal stiffeners are located in cellular polycarbonate in length (which can be 3, 6 or 12 m). the panel in your structure should be oriented in such a way that the condensation formed inside it can drain through the internal channels of the panel and be discharged to the outside.

When installing vertical glazing, the stiffening ribs of the panels should be located vertically, and in the pitched structure - along the slope.

In an arched structure, the stiffeners must follow an arc.

Consider these installation conditions 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 is specially marked. In order not to be mistaken, the panels must be mounted in a film, and removed immediately after installation.

Do not bend the panels to a radius less than the manufacturer's specified minimum bending radius for the panel of your chosen thickness and structure.

You cannot violate the panel orientation rules.

Point fixing of panels

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

Thermal washer consists of a proper plastic washer with a leg (its height corresponds to the thickness of the panel), a sealing washer and a snap-on cover.

Thermal washers will provide reliable and airtight fastening of the panel, as well as eliminate "cold bridges" created by self-tapping screws. In addition, the leg of the thermal washer, resting against the structure frame, will prevent the panel from crushing.

To compensate for thermal expansion, the holes in the panel should be 2-3 mm larger than the diameter of the thermowell leg, and if the panel is long, they should be elongated.

The panels cannot be rigidly fixed.

Do not use nails, rivets, unsuitable washers for fixing the panels.

Do not overtighten the screws.

Joining and fixing panels

For mounting cellular polycarbonate one-piece or split transparent and colored polycarbonate profiles are used.

Installation with one-piece profiles.

Panels with a width of 500-1050 mm are inserted into the grooves of the profiles corresponding to the thickness of the cellular polycarbonate. Fastening of the profile to the longitudinal supports of the frame is carried out using self-tapping screws equipped with thermal washers.

Detachable polycarbonate profile"Poliskrep" consists of two parts: the bottom - "base" and the upper - a snap-on cover.

1. Drill holes in the "base" with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the self-tapping screw with a step of 300 mm.

2. Attach the “base” with self-tapping screws to the longitudinal support of the frame and lay the panels on both sides, leaving a “thermal gap” of 3-5 mm.

3. Snap the "cover" of the profile along the entire length using a wooden mallet.

What needs to be considered when designing a structure frame for cellular polycarbonate

When installing a cellular polycarbonate cover, it is necessary to take into account:

standard panel sizes and their economical cutting;
impact of wind and snow loads;
thermal expansion of panels;
permissible bending radii of panels for arched structures;
the need to complete the panels with 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. Stiffeners are located along the length of the panel. The edges of the panels along their long side should be located on the supporting supports of the frame. Therefore, the longitudinal supports are installed with a pitch of 1050 mm or 700 mm (+ clearance for the distance between the panels). To connect the panels to each other with their simultaneous fastening to the longitudinal supports of the frame, it is necessary to use special connecting profiles. At the transverse crate, the panels should be fastened with self-tapping screws provided thermal washers.

In principle, it is possible to mount a panel as a whole, but practice shows that it is more harmonious and more reliable than a structure made of panels with a width of 1050 and 700 mm. When installing them, a smaller number of thermal washers are used, and sometimes it is possible to do without a point attachment altogether.

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

Corner panel connection

If you need to pair the panels of cellular polycarbonate at a right angle, you can use the corner polycarbonate profiles.

Transparent, tinted "bronze", "blue", "green", "turquoise" and light-diffusing "white opal" - standard colors polycarbonate profiles for mounting cellular polycarbonate.

Corner polycarbonate profiles hold the panels securely and make the corner connection invisible.

Wall connection

When connecting panels to a wall, use a wall-mounted polycarbonate profile.

Connecting panels in a ridge

The "wings" of the ridge polycarbonate profile have a powerful grip - 40 mm - sufficient for secure connection of panels and their thermal expansion.

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

Neutralizing thermal expansion

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

The change in the length (width) of the sheet is calculated by the formula:

where L is the length (width) of the panel (m)

∆T - temperature change (° C)

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 = 5.2mm.

It should be borne in mind that colored panels heat up 10-15 ° C more than transparent and white ones.

∆L for panels "bronze" 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 connections, using special connecting, corner and ridge profiles for installation. When the panels are point-mounted to the frame of the structure, it is advisable to use self-tapping screws with special thermal washers, and the holes in the panels should be made slightly larger (see “Point-to-point fastening of panels”).

It is impossible to mount structures on the street without taking into account the thermal deformation of the panels. This can lead to warpage in summer and damage to the point of rupture in winter.

How to fix polycarbonate

Internal stiffeners are located in cellular polycarbonate along the length (which can be 3, 6 or 12 m). the panel in your structure must be oriented in such a way that the condensation formed inside it can drain through the internal channels of the panel and be discharged outside.

Correct fastening of polycarbonate to metal - features of fastening to a metal frame

Panels orientation

The stiffeners of polycarbonate sheets are distributed along the length. To achieve maximum structural strength, the hollow channels must be correctly positioned:

If the panel is installed vertically, then the channels are arranged vertically.
In arcuate structures, the channels should be parallel to the bend line.
In structures of an inclined type - in the direction of the slope.

Tilt angle

Permissible bending of a polycarbonate arch

On the theoretical side, the bending radius of the arched structure can be no more than a value that is 150 thicknesses of the material used.

For each type of polycarbonate on a protective film, the manufacturer indicates the corresponding parameters. Therefore, it is best to focus on this data.

Polycarbonate Cutting Tools

It is best to cut polycarbonate with special tools:

Panels no more than 1 cm thick are cut with a construction knife. However, for large volumes of work, it is better not to use such a tool.
The most readily available tool is a jigsaw.
If there is an opportunity to purchase a high-speed saw with an emphasis, then you should pay attention to the teeth of the blade. They should be shallow, undiluted and coated with a hard alloy.
When cutting polycarbonate with a band saw, it is also necessary to know the relevant parameters. It is allowed to use a tape no more than 2 cm wide and no more than 1.5 mm thick. The teeth should be spaced no more than 3.5 mm and the cutting speed should not exceed 1000 meters per minute.

Before cutting, the polycarbonate sheet should be firmly fixed to avoid vibration. Any chips that have formed during the cutting process must be removed immediately.

Hole drilling rules

Holes in polycarbonate should be drilled between the stiffeners. The distance from the edge must be at least twice the diameter of the drill.

The hole drilling conditions are as follows:

The sharpening of the drill should have an angle of 30 0.
Drilling holes must be strictly at right angles at a speed of no more than 40 m / min.
The hole diameter must be selected so that it exceeds the corresponding parameter of the fastener by 3 mm.
Work should be interrupted periodically to remove the generated chips and cool the drill.

The process of sealing the ends of the sheet

During storage and transportation of polycarbonate, the manufacturer protects the ends of the sheets with temporary tape, which must be removed before sealing.

The upper edges of the material are sealed with adhesive aluminum tape; perforated tape is used to seal the lower ends. If the ends are not inserted into the groove or profile, then they are closed over the tape with an end profile. At the same time, holes must be made in the lower profile at a distance of 30 cm from each other, through which condensate will drain.

Arched structures involve sealing all edges by analogy with the bottom end.

Fastening cellular polycarbonate to a metal frame

Fastening polycarbonate to metal must be performed with elements that have a stainless steel drill or a galvanized tip at the end. Sealing rubber washers or thermal washers are mandatory.

When deciding at what distance to fix polycarbonate, it is worth remembering that the fasteners are located at a distance of 40-60 cm from each other. At the same time, the screw must be screwed in strictly at a right angle, without making any special efforts at the end of screwing. This will help avoid surface deformation.

Rules for fixing monolithic polycarbonate

To resolve the issue of how to properly attach polycarbonate to metal, several methods are used.

Fastening to the frame

It is possible to fasten the monolithic polycarbonate to the metal frame in the form of a frame. The main condition is that grooves up to 2.5 cm deep must be made in the frame.

To fix the sheet in the frame, you can use one of two methods:

With the wet method, the edges of the frame and the seals are treated with polymer putty or silicone sealant. This option can be used on wooden or metal frames.
The dry method involves the use of fasteners such as screws, bolts, nuts, screws and press washers. This option has one feature: the obligatory presence of rubber gaskets or plastic profiles that do not contain plasticizers. It is not allowed to stick the sealant to the polycarbonate sheet. Fasteners should be spaced 0.5 meters apart. The recommended indent from the edge is at least 2 cm. Using this method, you can solve the problem of how to fix polycarbonate to the canopy.

Using a support or batten to fasten panels

If the material covers a large area, then fasteners can be used to fasten the monolithic polycarbonate, as is the case with the frame.

Small structures are covered with polycarbonate using polyamide glue or double-sided tape. Outdoor work can be performed with silicone glue, which is more resistant to various weather conditions.

In the case when increased transparency of the fastening is required, you can use a polyurethane-based glue. However, before using it, the surfaces to be glued are degreased with isopropyl alcohol.

Varieties of fasteners for attaching polycarbonate to metal

Point fastening for polycarbonate to the metal frame is performed using thermal washers. The distance between the fasteners should not exceed 30-40 cm.

This method has one drawback, inside the room the appearance may not be very attractive. This is due to a mismatch between the connecting profiles and the frame.

The disadvantage of this method can be called the exit of the panel from the grooves with an increased load on the polycarbonate surface.

Mixed polycarbonate mounting involves the use of both options in order to compensate for their shortcomings.

Panel fixing materials

To solve the problem of how to attach polycarbonate to metal, you need to use the following:

Various types of profile, including end, corner, connecting, wall and ridge.
Fasteners in the form of thermal washers and mini-washers.
Different types of plugs.
Adhesive tape for ends, including perforated tape for bottom edges.
Profile seals.

Types of profiles and their purpose

End profiles are used to protect the edges of the polycarbonate, and the short shelf is always located outside.
Connecting profiles can be detachable universal or solid H-shaped. They are designed to join the edges of the panels. It is important to remember that only split profiles can be attached to the frame.
The corner profile allows the elements to be joined at right angles.
The wall profile makes it possible to tightly adhere the panel to the wall. Can be used as an end profile.
The ridge profile is required to connect the panels on the ridge of the roof, provided that the elements are connected at an angle greater than 90 °.

Varieties of thermal washers

Fastening of polycarbonate to metal is carried out with different types of thermal washers. These fasteners can differ in the following ways:

Design features make it possible to highlight individual and universal thermo washers. In the first case, the element has a length in accordance with the thickness of the sheet, which prevents the polycarbonate from being pinched or deformed. The second option does not have a leg, therefore, it can be used for material of any thickness.
Depending on the material of manufacture, the fasteners can be made of stainless steel (for covering large areas), polycarbonate (ensuring a tight connection without damaging the panel), polypropylene (for working indoors or in the shade).
Mini-washers are used for lightweight panels.

To make the structure attractive, and to protect the ends of the profiles from the ingress of water, dust and insects, it is necessary to use plugs.

How to properly mount panels on a canopy

Under the influence of high temperature, some change in polycarbonate may be observed, therefore, certain installation rules must be observed:

Mandatory presence of gaps.
Enlarged mounting holes.
The use of thermal washers.
Application of special types of profiles.

To perform a high-quality installation of the panel, you need to take care of the correct storage of the purchased material:

Lay the sheets on a flat surface with a protective film facing up.
The stack height should not exceed 2.5 meters.
Store the material in a dry ventilated area away from heating appliances.
It is not recommended to cover the material with polyethylene.

In addition, it should be remembered that the protective coating is removed from the panel only at the end of the installation work.

The quality of work largely depends on the compatibility of the materials used. Therefore, it is not allowed to use polyurethane, PVC, amine and acrylic based sealant with polycarbonate.

The optimum temperature for working with polycarbonate is in the range from +10 to +20 0 С.

If it is necessary to move on the surface of the material, support should be used, the length of which is about 3 meters, and the width is 0.4 meters. It is best to cover them with a soft cloth.

If you want to remove any glue residue after removing the protective film, you can use a neutral detergent. After cleaning, you can wipe the surface with a soft cloth.

Fastening polycarbonate to metal: how to fasten it correctly, how to fasten it to a canopy to a metal frame, at what distance, how to fasten monolithic and cellular polycarbonate

Fastening polycarbonate to metal: how to fasten it correctly, how to fasten it to a canopy to a metal frame, through what distance, how to fasten monolithic and cellular polycarbonate

Panels made of honeycomb or monolithic polycarbonate, due to their practicality, have found application in many areas of construction and industry. In particular, plastic sheets are widely used in the arrangement of various structures and structures, forming a reliable roof covering. If a suitable polycarbonate mount is selected, the material will provide optimum strength and mechanical protection characteristics. Fixation can be carried out to any materials, however, surfaces also assume the greatest responsibility in choosing the method of fastening.

Installation procedure for polycarbonate

The work consists of several stages. First of all, measurements are taken of the polycarbonate required for laying on a specific surface or frame. Next, you need to prepare sheets of the specified parameters. One of the main advantages of polycarbonate is ease of processing. You can cut it with an ordinary hacksaw and construction scissors. Then, the polycarbonate is directly attached to the frame using fixing elements. At the final stage, an analysis of the quality of the work done is carried out: the joints of the plastic sheets, the reliability of the installation of fasteners and the condition of the combs (ribbed polycarbonate cells), which must be clean, are checked.

How to fix monolithic polycarbonate?

To install sheet, special hardware, profiles and galvanized tape are used. This variety differs from honeycomb plastic in high density and rigidity. In terms of the use of fasteners, these qualities are a plus, although in technical terms they slightly complicate the process of drilling and introducing elements. The most common fastening of polycarbonate with self-tapping screws, but to obtain a stable and durable structure, it is also recommended to use profiles and a special tape. If there are no special requirements for the structure, then you can limit yourself to ordinary hardware, but on condition that the installation will be accompanied by the use of thermal washers.

Features of fixing cellular polycarbonate

Panels of this type are fixed with the same elements as monolithic counterparts. But cellular polycarbonate has its own design features, which are important to consider when installing the material. Exposed honeycombs can become clogged with dirt, water and insects, which affects the technical and aesthetic qualities of the coating. Special tapes that are glued to cellular polycarbonate help prevent clogging. Attaching the protective strip allows you to isolate the interior of the material. There are vapor permeable and sealing tapes. It is preferable to opt for the first option, since it minimizes the possibility of comb clogging, but at the same time does not create a barrier for condensate removal and ventilation. in turn, provide the maximum obstacle to any contact of the honeycomb with the external environment - including not allowing the penetration of air and moisture.

Galvanized strips

This is a new way of fixing polycarbonate sheets, which uses metal strips that have undergone anti-corrosion treatment. The fasteners are straps with a standard width of 20 mm and a thickness of approximately 0.7 mm. Thanks to galvanizing, this material does not undergo chemical destruction by rust, and also provides structural strength. If polycarbonate is attached to metal in a greenhouse, it is recommended to provide for the possibility of complex fixation of tapes, which will provide a screed for several sheets of material at once.

Galvanized strip fastening technology

The main advantage in the installation of such tapes is that there is no need to invade the structure of the polycarbonate itself. That is, it does not need to be drilled or special perforations made for specific fasteners. The tapes provide a fairly tight fit of the material to the frame elements. It is advisable to use this method on arched and arched structures. At the same time, in the supporting arches of the same greenhouses, it is not necessary to create holes for hardware, since the galvanized tape for fastening polycarbonate acts on the principle of a tightening force.

The installation process begins by fixing the position of the plastic sheets. Several elements are overlapped. Next, you need to divide the tape into two parts - each of them is initially attached at the base of the structure. Sections are superimposed exactly along the line of convergence of the panels and fixed to each other with nuts. Thus, the tape for fastening polycarbonate provides a tight connection of the sheets, which does not imply damage to the material and creates a rather attractive appearance of the entire structure.

The nuances of the operation of galvanized tapes

Although this method of fastening is the most technologically advanced and has many advantages, it also has certain disadvantages that should be taken into account. They are mainly due to the fact that the fixation is realized in the open form. Accordingly, if a greenhouse with polycarbonate is unattended for a long time, there is a risk of its quick and inconspicuous dismantling - it will not be difficult for an attacker armed with pliers to unscrew a few screws. In addition, the fastening of polycarbonate with a metal tape protrudes 2-3 cm outward, which often causes inconvenience when in close contact with the surfaces of the greenhouse.

Thermal washer

Before the advent of the thermal washer and galvanized tape, polycarbonate was fixed with ordinary self-tapping screws. This is a simple and inexpensive way to ensure the relative reliability of the structure. The disadvantages of using such hardware are due to physical and operational ones that make its structure changeable with temperature changes. The use of a thermal washer eliminates negative factors - the element naturally adapts to external conditions, evenly distributing the downforce. The combined fastening of polycarbonate to metal is also practiced, in which self-tapping screws, together with a thermal washer, are twisted through a galvanized tape. Thus, the maximum reliability of the metal frame cladding is achieved and the disadvantages inherent in the single use of clamp bands are eliminated. On the other hand, this is the most costly and time-consuming technology for installing polycarbonate, which in some cases does not justify itself.

Profile mount

These are special devices designed for fastening or joining polycarbonate sheets. The design of such profiles contains two elements - a base and a cover. With their help, a double-sided clamping of the edges of the material is provided, which does not require drilling and direct twisting of the sheets. Only the base is fixed in the appropriate places where the installation is planned. Such fastening of polycarbonate is advantageous, first of all, due to reliability and tightness, but in addition to this, the owner receives an impeccable appearance of the coating. Since the profiles are usually made of the same polycarbonate, they visually merge with the main sheets. It is enough to choose the elements that match the color.

There are also aluminum profiles with a similar design. They provide the same quality of connection as galvanized tape for fastening polycarbonate, but at the same time eliminate the flaws of the clamping method of installation. That is, it is not so easy to untwist this system - the presence of self-tapping screws and a strong clamping of profiles make this task difficult for an attacker.

Double-sided and purlin mount

The choice of the method for installing polycarbonate is also influenced by the location of the attachment points. There are two approaches to installation - purlin and double-sided. The first option is used if a large area is covered with polycarbonate. To exclude possible deflections of the sheets, several fastening runs should be made across the location of the material ribs. Depending on what kind of polycarbonate fastening is used, the pitch can be 40-50 cm. The use of a double-sided installation is advisable if a small area is sheathed - in this case, the fastening lines are made along the longitudinal sides of the polycarbonate sheets.

The run-through method of fastening focuses on the number of fixation points, so there is no point in using expensive installation tools. And vice versa, the double-sided version involves only two installation lines, therefore, to implement such a fastener, it is worth using a combined or profile installation method.

Polycarbonate is one of the best modern building materials. It is used not only as a covering for greenhouses, but also for the construction of sheds and gazebos. This material is in high demand due to its strength, long service life and high light transmittance, which plays a key role in the construction of greenhouses.

But when using polycarbonate as a coating, it should be borne in mind that the sheets must be properly fixed to the frame. If the technology is violated, the material may burst and the tightness of the building will decrease. For fastening sheets, you can use several methods, which will be described in detail in this article.

Fastening polycarbonate

Polycarbonate has certain characteristics that must be considered when working with this material. Firstly, it should be borne in mind that there is a special protective film on one of the sides, therefore, the material should be fastened so that the coating remains on the outside.

Secondly, the sheets bend well, but at the same time they can be bent only by the length of the ribs. Otherwise, the material may crack.

In addition, certain preparatory measures should be taken before the installation of the coating begins. The first step is to measure the width of the sheet and the spans of the frame in order to cut the parts to the desired size. Next, you need to close the ends of the blanks with plugs so that dust or dirt does not get inside the cells, which can reduce the transparency of the coating. In addition, if you plan to fix the parts with thermal washers or self-tapping screws, you need to make marks on the surface of the blanks and drill holes for fixing.

It should also be borne in mind that polycarbonate is of two types: cellular and monolithic. The performance characteristics of these materials are slightly different, therefore the installation technology will have certain features.

Cellular

The main feature of the honeycomb material is that its stiffeners are located along the length. Accordingly, during installation, the panels should be placed in such a way that the internal channels go out.

Note: This condition plays an important role, since condensate will be discharged through the channels.

Depending on the type of construction, the sheets should be placed in a certain plane. For example, if you mount them vertically, make sure that the stiffeners are also vertical. To cover the arched greenhouse, place the panels so that the ribs run along the slopes, and it is better to immediately direct them along the supporting arcs of the greenhouse (Figure 1).

The bending radius of the material also plays an important role. As a rule, this figure is indicated on the packaging. It should also be borne in mind that a special protective film is applied on one of the surfaces, which is recommended to be removed only after the installation is completed.

Figure 1. Methods for fixing honeycomb sheets

Taking into account the peculiarities of cellular polycarbonate and the type of structure on which it will be mounted, measurements should be taken to further cut parts of the required size.

Step-by-step instructions for installing cellular polycarbonate include the following steps:

Cutting into parts: the material is sold in large sheets, the length of which often exceeds the required length. Accordingly, for the construction of a gazebo or greenhouse cover, the material will have to be cut into pieces of the desired size. You do not need any special cutting tools: the material is soft enough and can be easily cut with an ordinary stationery knife. But, if the workpieces are large or you need a lot of parts, it is better to use a high-speed circular saw with fine teeth for cutting. During the cutting process, the material must be securely fixed so that the edges are smooth. After manufacturing the required number of parts, the ends must be cleaned of chips.
Drilling holes: at the preparation stage, marks are made, along which holes are subsequently drilled for installing blanks on the frame. You can drill a hole with an ordinary drill, but in the process you need to take into account several important nuances. First, the holes for the fasteners must be located between the stiffeners. Secondly, they should be placed at least 4 cm from the edge. It should also be borne in mind that under the influence of high temperatures, the material is slightly deformed, so the diameter of the hole should be several millimeters larger than the diameter of the leg of the thermal washer. The drilling angle also plays an important role: it should be in the range of 90-110 degrees. If the angle is more or less, it will not be possible to fix the washer correctly, and the structure will not be airtight.
End sealing: so that dust and dirt do not penetrate into the cells, they must be sealed. The upper ends are closed with a continuous self-adhesive tape, and for the lower one, a perforated one is used, which will not interfere with the drainage of condensate.
Fastening to the frame: depending on the material that you used to make the frame, you also choose the type of fastener, but most often self-tapping screws with special thermal washers are used for this purpose. Each thermal washer has a special leg, and when choosing, you should pay attention to its length: it must correspond to the thickness of the sheet. In addition, the thermal washer protects the material from deformation and prevents heat loss.

The sheets are connected to each other using special profiles and fixed with self-tapping screws with thermal washers. It is important that the fixation points should be located at a distance of 30-40 cm from each other to increase the strength of the structure.

Monolithic

It is necessary to mount monolithic polycarbonate to the frame using special supporting structures that allow you to securely fix the sheet in the desired position.

Installation can be done in two ways. The first, "wet" method, involves the use of a special polymer putty. The sheets are positioned with small gaps to accommodate future thermal expansion. This method is most often used for structures with a wooden frame.

If the base of the building is made of metal, rubber gaskets and sealants are used to fix the sheets, with which the joint is processed inside and out.

The second, "dry" method of fastening is carried out without the use of sealants, since only rubber seals are used in the process. However, it should be borne in mind that such a system is not sealed, and a drainage system must be provided to drain condensate.

Fastening to a metal frame

The easiest and most reliable way of attaching sheets to a metal frame is using self-tapping screws with thermal washers. The thermal washer is a plastic washer on a special leg. It is important that the length of this leg must exactly match the thickness of the sheet. Also on the fastener there is a sealing rubber and a snap-on cover. This design provides a completely sealed connection (Figure 2).

In the prepared parts, the required number of holes is made with standard drills with a step of 30-40 cm. It is important to take into account that the diameter of the hole should be slightly larger than the diameter of the leg of the thermal washer. This is necessary to compensate for the thermal expansion of the material.

Figure 2. Technology of fastening to a metal frame

Further installation of sheets to the frame is carried out using a conventional screwdriver, and the screws must pass through the sheet. In this case, it is important to place the washer strictly horizontally and not to tighten the self-tapping screw strongly inside the polycarbonate. Otherwise, the attachment point will not be airtight, moisture can penetrate into the building, and condensate will be poorly drained from the inner space of the room. In addition, tightening the screws forcibly can damage the material, and the sheet will have to be replaced.

Mounting profile

Another effective way of attaching sheets to the greenhouse frame is with profiles. Since the material has a cellular structure, it is mounted in such a way that the cells are located parallel to the slopes throughout the entire area of the building. However, the standard width of one sheet is 2.10 meters, therefore special profiles should be used to connect sheets on spans of greater width (Figure 3).

There are several types of profiles that can be used to mount polycarbonate on the greenhouse frame:

Connecting (H-shaped): has legs rounded inward, and to fix the sheets, the profile is simply pulled between the sheets and put on polycarbonate.
Non-detachable: made of the same material as the sheets themselves. In addition, the color of the profile and the roofing material completely matches. As a result, the connection is not only durable, but also beautiful. Installation is carried out as follows: the panels are inserted into the grooves of the profile, and the connecting element itself is attached to the longitudinal support using self-tapping screws with thermal washers.
Sectional: also available in polycarbonate but with cover and base. The base is attached to the rafter system at the junction of the sheets with self-tapping screws. Next, a sealant is applied to the base and sheets are laid on it, leaving a gap of 5 cm between them. The profile cover is placed on top and snapped into place.

Figure 3. Types of profiles for installation

In addition, when covering the greenhouse with polycarbonate, end profiles are used, the main function of which is to prevent the ingress of dirt and dust into the cells.

Methods and methods of fixing polycarbonate

Polycarbonate provides an opportunity not only to build a greenhouse of any shape and size, but also very flexible in terms of ways of fixing sheets. Traditionally, they are mounted using self-tapping screws with thermal washers, but there are other methods that we will consider in more detail.

Ribbon

On the modern building materials market, a special galvanized tape is presented. This material began to be used for fastening relatively recently, but has already won the trust of many greenhouse owners (Figure 4).

Figure 4. Using tape to cover the greenhouse

The fact is that it is very simple and quick to fasten the sheets with tape, but it should be borne in mind that this installation method is suitable only for arched structures. But the main advantage of the method is that you do not need to drill holes in the coating for fastening. Accordingly, if you need to disassemble the greenhouse, you can simply unfold the tape and get whole pieces of material that can be used for the construction of other objects.

Note: When planning to use galvanized tape as the main fastener for polycarbonate, it should be borne in mind that over time, the tape tension weakens and the sheets are not fixed in the installed position. Therefore, after several years of operation, the tape will need to be re-tensioned.

But, despite certain disadvantages, the installation of sheets using such a tape is in high demand. To secure the material, the tape is simply thrown over the greenhouse and secured at the base on both sides. Further, the longitudinal parts of the tape must be fastened together with small transverse pieces of the same tape.

Thermal washers

Fastening sheets to self-tapping screws using special thermal washers is considered the most correct way, although it requires certain labor costs.

Figure 5. Installation using thermal washers

Each thermal washer consists of a cover that protects the self-tapping screw from moisture and debris, the plastic washer itself and a sealing element. This design is put on a screw and polycarbonate is fixed with it (Figure 5).

There are many advantages to using thermal washers. Firstly, they protect the material from temperature extremes, which in turn prolongs the life of the material. Secondly, the use of a thermal washer almost completely eliminates the likelihood of mechanical damage to the polycarbonate, and the finished structure will be completely sealed. It should be borne in mind that in ready-made polycarbonate greenhouses, which are sold disassembled, thermal washers are most often included in the package, but if you build a structure with your own hands, it is better to buy thermal washers, the length of which corresponds to the thickness of the coating sheets.

For self-tapping screws

If you do not have the opportunity to buy galvanized tape or special thermal washers for fastening, you can always use ordinary roofing screws for this purpose. It is important to take into account that the length of the self-tapping screws must be at least 6 mm, and when mounting it, it is imperative to put on a sealing rubber washer (Figure 6).

Figure 6. Installation of the cover using self-tapping screws

The use of a washer is imperative, as it evenly distributes the load on the sheets and increases the strength of the entire structure. As a result, you will be sure that neither the polycarbonate nor the frame will be damaged by the weight of the snow cover or by strong gusts of wind.

More information about polycarbonate fastening technology is presented in the video.