Skylight roofing is a popular addition not only on residential spaces, but commercial, shared spaces too, because of added functionality and aesthetic appeal. In fact there are a lot of materials that can be used as skylight roofing, with the same transparent properties that makes it inferior against other types of roofing. Its ability to maximize daylight and save energy is one of the greatest advantages of it. For this article, we will be comparing four clear roofing materials and find out which material is best to use for your application.
Clear Roofs you can use
- Glass
Glass is a classic, go-to material for roofs because it is flat, transparent, and a cheaper material than other options. However, glass can be delicate and fragile, which makes it difficult to handle, transport, and install. For this purpose, laminated or tempered glass tiles are recommended. Glass with a thermal coating boosts resistance against UV. Although the material can be cheaper, this material requires skilled labor, tools, and a more complicated engineering design, adding to its expenses. Impact resistance is not its greatest strength, as it can have visible cracks under heavy impact.
- Acrylic
Acrylic roofs have a UV protective coating that prevents the roof from its harmful effects of discoloration, brittleness, and breakage with long term exposure. It is lightweight and easy to install, and less expensive, so it is recommended for small scale applications, at the storage area, or at the back of the home.
- Fiberglass
Fiberglass is mostly opaque, giving you controlled light. Compared to other materials, it has less flexibility and versatility, but it can be used in both commercial and industrial applications. It costs slightly higher than polycarbonate , but the same features of durability, aesthetic versatility, and ease of installation and maintenance are guaranteed. When fiberglass is installed and maintained correctly, it can last for 15-20 years.
- Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is the most commonly used translucent roofing material. With proper installation and maintenance, polycarbonate roofs can last from 20-50 years. Although polycarbonate is durable, polycarbonate sheets are not scratch resistant. Be careful when handling the material before and during installation, and remove leaves and tree branches atop the roof. Polycarbonate has a variety of colors, each with varying levels of transparency. Depending on the profile, you can also match your budget and needs, as well as how you want it to look.
a. Twin wall Polycarbonate
Twin wall polycarbonate has a double rib structure that distorts the view and gives lesser transparency than the flat types. Twin wall and multiwall polycarbonates usually require more accessories because of its double wall nature and to seal the ends to prevent anything from being trapped inside the flutes.
b. Solid Polycarbonate
Unlike twinwall or corrugated polycarbonate, it has a seamless, transparent look. Because it is free of flutes and corrugations, it is easier to clean and maintain.
c. Corrugated Polycarbonate
Corrugated polycarbonate sheet is easy to spot because of the corrugations that are likened to GI sheets. This type of polycarbonate may require more framing for better wind resistance, and also have steeper slopes to allow water to flow down naturally. Because of its shape, it can distort the view and give diffused light.
What Material is Best for Skylight?
The best material varies depending on the needs and requirements of the homeowner. Ask yourself the following questions to help you understand your roofing priorities.
- What is your working budget (material, framing structure, installation)?
- How do you want it to look (fully transparent, frosted, tinted, or opaque)?
- Where will it be placed?
There are a lot of options available today, which may cause you confusion. However, by navigating all your material options, you can easily narrow down a material that is best suited to your application, your budget, your needs, and your priorities. Duralon is a trusted polycarbonate supplier in the Philippines. You can buy this brand only from Polylite stores nationwide. For more information, you can reach us through the following:
Get a quote: https://forms.gle/KzzS3tb7UgV9Y6ng7
Send us a message: sales@polylite.com.ph
Contact us: (02) 8808-7659; 0998 979 7659 / 0998 961 7502