Ever wondered if your polycarbonate roof is durable? Yes, it is. If you wonder if all types of polycarbonate sheets e.g., twin wall, solid, corrugated, and multi wall polycarbonate sheets can withstand the varying weather, the answer is yes. However, even if they are the toughest and most durable skylight roofing, they can still be damaged when mishandled. When you start a project, there is a period of time before actual application where you need to store the polycarbonate sheets. Follow the mnemonic ABCDE in storing the polycarbonate sheet to ensure no damages or dents on the sheets while waiting for installation.
Avoid placing the sheets under direct sunlight. Yes, polycarbonate sheets have UV protection film to withstand immediate discoloration and brittleness caused by the sun. However, increased temperature in your storage can melt the protective film together with the sheet which will cause difficulty in removing it. Moreover, it can cause warping and distortion of sheets. To prevent all these, make sure to place them where sunlight cannot reach. Find them a place where there is ample and sufficient shade.
Be careful of moisture forming in between the sheets. Moisture causes damage to the sheets as much as heat can. Exposure to moisture can cause whitening and water spotting. Keep the sheets moisture-free by stacking them properly. Keep out of areas susceptible to rain or flooding, where water may come into contact.
Cover the sheets properly to prevent dirt from accumulating on its surface or on the edges. Exposure to dirt will create additional labor in cleaning the sheets before installation. You can cover it with a polyethylene sheet, cardboard or any other insulating material.
Do not damage the sheet by laying it directly on a cemented floor or a rough surface. Lay them flat, on a leveled surface. Remember to place them horizontally, parallel to the surface. Place the longest sheets at the bottom of the stack to make sure that there is no unsupported overhang. Moreover, do not place heavy objects atop the sheets otherwise, they may fracture. Remember not to not stack too high.
Eliminate any harmful chemicals or substances which may damage the sheets. Keep away from strong acids or strong bases and materials that contain chloric acid, sulfuric acid, ketone, petrol, acetone, solvents, and toxic cleansing agents.
After learning the ABCDEs of storing polycarbonate sheets, do not forget F: follow the guidelines stated above to maintain the polycarbonate sheets’ pristine condition before the actual installation. Ensure that you get the maximum usage of the for the price you paid for the polycarbonate sheet. For more questions regarding the products, ask one of the trusted polycarbonate suppliers in the Philippines: Duralon polycarbonate sheets.
This is part 1 of the series ABCDE of Polycarbonate Sheets. Click here to read the next article, “The ABCDE of Handling Polycarbonate Sheets.”