Polycarbonate wall cladding

Types of Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

Polycarbonate wall cladding is a type of wall covering made from polycarbonate, a durable and lightweight plastic material. It is used in various applications, such as building walls, greenhouse structures, carports, and outdoor seating areas. The cladding is valued for its strength, transparency, and ability to transmit light, making it a popular choice in both residential and commercial construction.

Polycarbonate wall cladding comes in several different types, including;

• Solid Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

  This type of cladding is made from solid polycarbonate sheets that are not hollow or multi-wall. They offer excellent strength and impact resistance. Solid polycarbonate sheets are available in various thicknesses, which range from 4mm to 25mm. The sheets provide good insulation and are available in both clear and tinted options. Applications include: bullet-resistant windows, security barriers, machine guards.

• Hollow/ Twin/Wall Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

  This type of cladding consists of polycarbonate sheets with hollow or multi-wall structures. The design helps to trap air pockets between the walls, providing insulation. Hollow/twin-wall sheets are lightweight and have good light transmission. Applications include: greenhouses, conservatories, skylights, carports, awnings.

• Corrugated Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

  This cladding is characterized by a corrugated or ribbed surface. The surface increases its strength and rigidity. The sheets are lightweight and easy to install. Corrugated polycarbonate wall cladding is available in both clear and opaque options. Applications include: roofing for garages, sheds, and agricultural buildings; decorative wall accents; covered patios and walkways.

• Textured or Embossed Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

  This type of cladding features a textured or embossed surface. The surface helps to diffuse light and reduce glare. The sheets provide privacy while still allowing light to pass through. Textured or embossed polycarbonate wall cladding is available in various patterns and finishes. Applications include: privacy partitions, decorative wall panels, shower enclosures, frosted glass alternatives.

• Colored or Tinted Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

  These sheets are available in various colors and tints, such as bronze, green, or opal. They can be used to create different aesthetic effects and control the amount of sunlight that enters a space. Applications include: architectural accent walls, colored roofing, sunrooms, and solariums.

• Multi-wall Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

  Multi-wall cladding features multiple layers of polycarbonate with air spaces in between. The design provides insulation and reduces weight. The sheets have high light transmission and are often UV resistant. Applications include: energy-efficient greenhouses, commercial skylights, and atriums; insulated exterior walls.

Functions and features of polycarbonate wall cladding

Polycarbonate is used as a wall cladding material in greenhouses, homes, and commercial spaces because of its unique properties.

• Impact Resistance

  Polycarbonate is known for its high impact resistance and is used where glass would break easily. This includes cladding for schools, walkways, buildings near high-traffic areas, and greenhouse panels. Greenhouses using wall cladding panels of polycarbonate are also safer for people and animals since shards are not produced when it breaks. The non-fragile nature of polycarbonate panels makes it a preferred choice for spaces with children and in accident-prone areas.

• Lightweight

  Polycarbonate panels are light, and this makes them easy to transport and install. Lightweight materials reduce the overall weight put on structural supports like beams and frames. This can lead to cost savings during construction because support systems do not need to be as robust as those required for heavier materials.

• Thermal Insulation

  Thermal insulation is the prevention of heat from escaping or entering a space. Insulated polycarbonate panels have walls with air or foam fillers that slow down heat transfer. They are suitable for areas where temperature control is needed, like commercial offices, residential homes, and greenhouses.

  Double-wall or multi-wall panels provide insulation value while allowing natural light to pass through. They are also lightweight and cost-effective alternatives to glass or acrylic panels.

• UV Protection

  Polycarbonate panels are treated with UV protection. This prevents the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. These effects include the degradation of materials and skin burns. UV-resistant polycarbonate panels are translucent or transparent and are used in applications like skylights, windows, and greenhouse walls.

• Design Versatility

  Polycarbonate panels come in different formats, like solid sheets and multi-wall structured panels. Solid sheets can be flat or curved, while multi-wall panels have internal structures like walls and ribs. They also have different surface finishes, including clear, textured, and frosted.

Scenarios of Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

• Industrial and Commercial Applications

  Historically, the first applications of polycarbonate wall cladding were in commercial and industrial settings.

  It was installed on the walls of factories, warehouses, and workshops. This was done to allow light to enter while keeping out the wind and rain.

  Now, businesses use it for the sides of offices, stores, and parking garages. The transparent walls let customers see inside from the street. At the same time, they shield the interior from bad weather.

• Homes and Buildings

  Homeowners also use polycarbonate cladding to give their properties a modern look. It is installed on the sides of patios and decks. This creates an outdoor space that can be used even in light rain or hot sun.

  Polycarbonate walls are also used to clad the exterior of modern houses. Their sleek surfaces provide visual interest and architectural style.

• Gardens and Yards

  Many public areas and private gardens install polycarbonate walls around the space. This protects plants and people from the weather while still letting light through.

  They can make attractive walls in botanical gardens, parks, and nature reserves.

• Recreation Spaces

  Recreation centers, stadiums, and sports halls often use it for their walls. The transparent cladding allows spectators to see activities inside from outside.

  Schools and universities also use polycarbonate walls for gymnasiums, art studios, and other multi-purpose rooms.

• Healthcare Places

  Hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes use polycarbonate cladding for their walls. The material can be cleaned easily, which is important for healthcare settings.

  Polycarbonate walls also create light-filled waiting areas and patient rooms while maintaining privacy.

• Factories and Workshops

  Many industries use it for their interior walls. The durable material works well to separate spaces inside factories, stores, and workshop.

  Its ability to withstand impacts and be cleaned easily makes it a good choice for commercial interiors.

How to Choose Polycarbonate Wall Cladding

When choosing polycarbonate wall cladding, it is important to consider certain factors to ensure the right product is selected for a specific application. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Consider the Purpose and Location

  It is important to determine the purpose of the wall cladding and the location where it will be installed. Some areas may require cladding for protection, while others may need it for aesthetic purposes. Also, the location will determine the type of cladding material needed, such as those that can withstand extreme weather conditions or high-impact areas.

• Light Transmission and Privacy

  Consider the desired level of natural light and privacy. Clear or tinted panels allow varying degrees of light transmission, while textured or frosted options offer more privacy.

• Fire Resistance

  Check the fire safety regulations applicable to the installation area. Some polycarbonate panels have enhanced fire-resistant properties, which can be crucial for specific applications, such as in commercial or interior settings.

• Insulation Requirements

  If thermal insulation is important, look for multi-wall polycarbonate panels. These panels have air or foam-filled chambers that provide superior insulation compared to single-wall options.

• Durability and Impact Resistance

  Choose high-quality polycarbonate that offers superior durability and impact resistance. This is especially important in high-traffic areas or locations exposed to severe weather conditions.

• Aesthetic Consideration

  Select polycarbonate panels that complement the design and style of the space. Consider the color, texture, and pattern options to achieve the desired visual effect.

• UV Protection

  If the cladding is installed in an area with direct sunlight exposure, opt for polycarbonate panels with UV protection. This helps prevent yellowing over time and ensures optimal light transmission.

• Manufacturers' Reputation

  Research and read reviews about different manufacturers. Choose a reputable company known for producing high-quality and durable wall cladding materials.

• Installation Requirements

  Consider the installation process. Some polycarbonate panels are easier to install than others. Also, check if special tools or skills are needed.

• Maintenance and Cleaning

  Consider the maintenance requirements. Polycarbonate is generally easy to clean, but specific cleaning products may be needed depending on the panel type.

Polycarbonate Wall Cladding Q&A

Q1: Does the polycarbonate wall cladding require special maintenance or cleaning?

A1: No, it does not. It only needs to be washed with water and a mild detergent to remove dirt or debris. The wall should be rinsed with clean water to avoid streaks.

Q2: Is it possible to install the polycarbonate wall cladding myself, or do I need a professional?

A2: Simple projects like barn doors or shed walls can be done as DIY. However, intricate designs like skylights and curved roofs require special tools and skills; hence, a professional should handle them.

Q3: What are the most common types of polycarbonate wall cladding?

A3: The most common types are; solid wall cladding, hollow wall cladding, and corrugated wall cladding.