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The construction industry gained many benefits from innovation and technological advances, leading to new equipment and materials that are stronger, more efficient, cost-effective, and long-lasting. For example, glass was once an important material, but today, the industry has other choices, such as acrylic and polycarbonate sheets.
In recent years these materials have gained widespread popularity and high demand. Polycarbonate sheets, for instance, are lightweight, fire-resistant, UV resistant, and durable. There are several types of polycarbonate sheets, with polycarbonate roof system gaining wider acceptance for many roofing applications. However, while many contractors favor polycarbonate roofing sheets, some people are wary of using the product because they do not know the right way to install it. Therefore, there are a few things to consider when installing the polycarbonate roofing sheet.
Steps for installing polycarbonate roofing sheets
A roof will be strong when you use the suitable material and install the roofing material properly. For example, polycarbonate roofing sheets are durable, and when properly installed, will give years of service. Here are the steps in installing them if you want to tackle the job yourself.
- You should have the appropriate safety gear since you will handle various tools and work from a considerable height. It is standard to wear safety gear when working at any construction site. In addition, you will need a safety harness, eyewear, gloves, appropriate footwear, and a scaffold.
- Check the polycarbonate sheet and look for the sticker that indicates its UV-protected side. It is vital to ensure that the side with UV protection is the one that faces the sun to prevent the entry of harmful rays through the roof. Do not scratch or remove the sticker.
- Lay purlin tape over the rafters and cut the polycarbonate sheets into the required sizes. You can use a standard saw, shears, or sharp-toothed scissors. Pre-drill holes into the sheets. Make the holes wide enough to allow for the sheets’ expansion should there be a temperature change. You can screw the sheets on the rafter. Ensure that you have rubber on the screws to seal the sheets properly and prevent water from penetrating. Tighten the screws to avoid the polycarbonate roofing sheets from rattling, but do not over-tighten. Install the suitable barge caps and ridge caps over the sheets’ tops to prevent water and air penetration.
Some things to keep in mind
- Ensure that you install the sheet on the side with the UV sticker facing the sun to prevent discoloration and a shorter life span of the sheet.
- Polycarbonate sheets contract and expand depending on the temperature. Thus, allow thermal variations to prevent the sheets from buckling up.
- Pre-drill all the screw holes into the polycarbonate sheets. Then, do the same for the flashings and caps. Pre-drilling is necessary for your safety because you will eliminate handling electrical equipment on the roof. Likewise, you prevent the sheets from moving while drilling. When you drill the holes at the exact location, you can easily attach the polycarbonate sheets.
- Install the polycarbonate sheets at a minimum pitch of five degrees to allow the rainwater to run off better, preventing moisture and water from collecting on the roof.
Ensure that you know how to use a polycarbonate roofing system and understand all the guidelines to install the sheets correctly.
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