Acrylic VS Polycarbonate Roofing Solutions
A lot of our clientele come in to TNN and ask us “What is the difference when considering acrylic vs polycarbonate plastics?” When it comes to acrylic vs polycarbonate roofing solutions, there are a few subtle yet crucial differences that differentiate the two when you are considering how best to insulate your roof from the elements as well as save on costs. Generally speaking, acrylic plastics are shinier and polycarbonate plastics are stronger. Both plastics usually weigh less than half of what their glass counterparts do, yet are much stronger than glass and are easier to clean.
TNN sells polycarbonate materials for use in residential roofing solutions. Plastics are used as roofing solutions: to protect whatever is underneath a carport from rain, hail and the heat that comes with sunny weather. Depending on the solution, you will experience different conditions according to the weather and will have to install the material using different methods.
Acrylic plastics are very resistant to dents and scratches. They can be polished smooth, however, they must be heat bent when installed as a roofing solution. They do not suffer damage from sunlight which makes them a long-lasting solution to your roofing needs. Acrylic plastic solutions must be glued into place because screwing in the materials can crack the plastic. Acrylic solutions are very effective at transmitting sunlight too, which makes them appropriate for use as greenhouse roofing solutions.
Polycarbonate plastics enjoy 250 times the impact resistance of glass and are 30 times stronger than acrylic. Polycarbonate plastics are less rigid and are available in a wide selection of grades. Polycarbonate plastics, unlike acrylic, can be drilled without fear of cracking. They can also be cold formed or bent without heating. Polycarbonate plastics are usually tinted, which means they may not be great for use as greenhouse roofing, but are suitable for use as a carport roofing solution.
Acrylic sheets are manufactured using a process called bulk polymerisation. Methyl methacryte is the polymer which is catalysed using organic peroxide and then poured into a mould which is then sealed and heated to form the reaction that produces the acrylic plastic polymer. The sheets are cured and then cooled and either immediately used or cured further to improve the quality of the finished product.
The process of manufacturing polycarbonate plastics involves feeling raw reisin into an extruder which is then heated to the desired temperature. The polycarbonate material is then fed through a die that is shaped to produce sheets of varying lengths, widths and thicknesses. During this process, the polycarbonate can be dyed different colours or textured with different grains.
Contact TNN For Australian Made Pergolas
Terra Nature Nest （TNN） supplies pergolas and carports all across Sydney. If you are looking to build a pergola or carport, please contact our friendly sales team today at 0475 288 824 or visit our website. We are open for business Monday to Friday 9 am to 5:00 pm. We are able to answer any questions you have about our selection of pergolas and carports. We look forward to speaking to you soon.