How to fix polycarbonate on a metal grid. How to fix polycarbonate: methods, instructions. Mounting on supports or crate

Panels made of cellular or monolithic polycarbonate, due to their practicality, have found application in many areas of construction and industry. In particular, plastic sheets are widely used in the arrangement of various structures and structures, forming a reliable roofing. If a suitable polycarbonate fixing is selected, the material will provide optimum strength and mechanical protection characteristics. Fixation can be carried out to any materials, however, surfaces also involve the greatest responsibility in choosing the method of fastening.

Polycarbonate installation procedure

The work consists of several stages. First of all, measurements are made of the polycarbonate required for laying on a specific surface or frame. Next, you need to prepare sheets of specified parameters. One of the main advantages of polycarbonate is ease of processing. You can cut it with a regular hacksaw, and construction scissors. Then the polycarbonate is directly attached to the frame using fixing elements. At the final stage, an analysis of the quality of the work done is carried out: the joints of the plastic sheets are checked, the reliability of the installation of fasteners and the condition of the honeycombs (cells of ribbed polycarbonate), which must be clean.

How to fix monolithic polycarbonate?

To install the sheet, special hardware, profiles and galvanized tape are used. This variety differs from honeycomb plastic in high density and rigidity. In terms of the use of fasteners, these qualities are a plus, although technically they make the process of drilling and inserting elements a little more difficult. The most common is the fastening of polycarbonate with self-tapping screws, but to obtain a stable and durable structure, it is also recommended to use profiles and a special tape. If there are no special requirements for the construction, then you can limit yourself to ordinary hardware, but on condition that the installation is accompanied by the use of thermal washers.

Features of fastening cellular polycarbonate

Panels of this type are fixed with the same elements as monolithic counterparts. But cellular polycarbonate has its own design features, which are important to consider when installing the material. Open honeycombs can be clogged with dirt, water and insects, which affects the technical and aesthetic qualities of the coating. Special tapes that are glued to cellular polycarbonate allow preventing clogging. The fastening of the protective strip allows you to isolate the internal space of the material. There are steam-permeable and sealing tapes. It is preferable to opt for the first option, since it minimizes the possibility of clogging the cells, but at the same time does not create a barrier to condensate removal and ventilation. in turn, they provide the maximum obstacle to any contact of the cells with the external environment - including they do not allow air and moisture to penetrate.

Galvanized tapes

This is a new method of fixing polycarbonate sheets, which uses metal tapes that have undergone anti-corrosion treatment. The fasteners are tie-down collars, the standard width of which is 20 mm and a thickness of approximately 0.7 mm. Thanks to galvanization, this material is not subject to chemical destruction due to rust, and also provides structural strength. If polycarbonate is fastened to metal in a greenhouse, it is recommended to provide for the possibility of complex fixation of tapes, which will ensure the screed of several sheets of material at once.

Fastening technology of galvanized tape

The main advantage in installing such tapes is the absence of the need to invade the structure of the polycarbonate itself. That is, it does not need to be drilled or special perforations made for specific fasteners. Tapes provide a fairly tight fit of the material to the frame elements. It is desirable to use this method on arc and arched structures. At the same time, in the supporting arcs of the same greenhouses, it is not necessary to create holes for hardware, since the galvanized tape for fixing polycarbonate acts on the principle of a tightening force.

The installation process begins with fixing the position of the plastic sheets. Laying of several elements is carried out with an overlap. Next, you need to divide the tape into two parts - each of them is initially attached at the base of the structure. Segments are superimposed exactly along the line of convergence of the panels and are fixed to each other with nuts. Thus, the tape for attaching polycarbonate provides a tight connection of sheets, which does not imply damage to the material and creates a rather attractive appearance of the entire structure.

The nuances of the operation of galvanized tapes

Although this method of fastening is the most technologically advanced and has many advantages, it also has certain disadvantages that should be considered. Basically, they are due to the fact that the fixation is implemented in an open form. Accordingly, if a greenhouse with polycarbonate is unattended for a long time, there is a risk of its quick and inconspicuous dismantling - unscrewing a few screws will not be difficult for an attacker armed with pliers. In addition, the fastening of polycarbonate with a metal tape protrudes 2-3 cm outward, which often causes inconvenience in close contact with the surfaces of the greenhouse.

Thermal washer

Before the appearance of a thermal washer and a galvanized tape, polycarbonate was fixed with ordinary self-tapping screws. This is a simple and cheap method, which ensures the relative reliability of the design. The disadvantages of using such hardware are due to physical and operational factors that make its structure changeable with temperature changes. The use of a thermal washer eliminates negative factors - the element naturally adapts to external conditions, evenly distributing the clamping force. Combined fastening of polycarbonate to metal is also practiced, in which self-tapping screws together with a thermal washer are twisted through a galvanized tape. In this way, the maximum reliability of the sheathing of the metal frame is achieved and the disadvantages inherent in the single use of clamp bands are eliminated. On the other hand, this is the most expensive and time-consuming technology for installing polycarbonate, which in some cases does not justify itself.

Profile fastening

These are special devices designed for fastening or connecting polycarbonate sheets. The design of such profiles contains two elements - a base and a cover. With their help, a double-sided clamping of the edges of the material is provided, which does not require drilling and direct twisting of the sheets. Only the base is fixed in the appropriate places where installation is planned. Such fastening of polycarbonate is beneficial, first of all, with reliability and tightness, but besides this, the owner also receives an impeccable appearance of the coating. Since the profiles are usually made from the same polycarbonate, they visually merge with the main sheets. It is enough to choose the elements that match the color.

There are also aluminum profiles with a similar design. They provide the same quality of connection as a galvanized tape for fastening polycarbonate, but at the same time eliminate the flaws of the clamping method of installation. That is, it is not so easy to unwind this system - the presence of self-tapping screws and a strong clamping of profiles make this task difficult for an attacker.

Double-sided and purlin fastening

The location of the attachment points also affects the choice of the installation method for polycarbonate. There are two approaches to installation - running and double-sided. The first option is used if a large area is covered with polycarbonate. To eliminate possible sheet deflections, several fastening runs should be made across the location of the material ribs. Depending on which polycarbonate fastener is used, the pitch can be 40-50 cm. The use of a two-sided installation is advisable if a small area is sheathed - in this case, the fastening lines are made along the longitudinal sides of the polycarbonate sheets.

The purlin mounting method emphasizes the number of fixing points, so it makes no sense to use expensive installation tools. And vice versa, the double-sided option involves only two installation lines, therefore, to implement such fasteners, it is worth using combined or profile mounting methods.

Today, polycarbonate is becoming more and more popular in industries such as construction, advertising, engineering. A variety of colors, strength, flexibility and easy installation of the material attract many people. There are two types of this material: monolithic and cellular polycarbonate. The fastening of cellular polycarbonate is slightly different from the fastening of a monolithic one.

Often, the owners of private houses do not want to involve third-party organizations and want to do all the installation work with their own hands. In this case, the question inevitably arises: how to fix polycarbonate? Next, the nuances and rules of installation of each type will be considered.

Mounting monolithic polycarbonate

For work you will need the following inventory:

roulette;
building level;
electric jigsaw or circular saw;
drill;
drill;
screwdriver;
polycarbonate sheets;
self-tapping screws;
gaskets;
thermal washers;
silicone sealant.

So how to fix polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate can be installed on a prepared frame of an inclined or pitched structure using a “dry” or “wet” method.

"Wet" fastening is carried out using polymer putty, which is distributed along the perimeter of the frame. Then a polycarbonate sheet is laid on it, leaving gaps (about 2 mm) for temperature differences, and strongly pressed against the base, removing all excess putty. Instead of polymer putty, rubber strips (gaskets) can be used.

Sheets are fixed at the corners or along the longest sides. The peripheral part (joints) is treated with silicone sealant. To give the structure a more finished look, silicone can be covered with wooden planks or plastic corners. This method of fastening is used for wooden or metal frames.

In the case of attaching monolithic polycarbonate to steel heavy-duty frames for sealing inside and outside, a rubber seal is first laid, and then a layer of sealant is applied.

The "dry" method of installation is more widespread. It looks much neater and cleaner. It is used on large areas of coverage. In this case, profiles, seals and covers with rubber gaskets are used, and adhesives are not used. All connections are made with bolts, nuts and screws.

This method of fastening is practiced in the case of the installation of partitions, soundproof barriers or light locks. The system is arranged in such a way that moisture, getting on the top layer of protection, does not reach the inner lining and flows down through the drainage channels.

When designing, special attention must be paid to the aspect ratio of the structure. The best option for glazing is a square. If the shape is rectangular, then with an increase in the dimensions of the parallel sides, the strength of the sheet decreases, and the load exerted on it increases in direct proportion to the increase in length.

Note!

Polycarbonate monolithic type has a high coefficient of thermal expansion, as a result, it is necessary to leave large gaps that will eliminate deflections and distortions of the sheet.

Polycarbonate differs from glass in that it flexes a lot. But when glazing it will not affect. All deflections will disappear after the loads are removed. Flexible plastic requires a deep fit and increased grooves. This will help to securely fit the polycarbonate and avoid the sheet falling out during strong deflections.

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Installation of cellular polycarbonate

Cellular polycarbonate is used for the construction of pitched or arched roofs with a slope of 25-30% (at least 11%).

This material is easy to drill and cut. Cellular polycarbonate, having a thickness of 0.4-1.0 cm, can be cut even with a knife. But for a straight, smooth cut, it is better to use a circular saw or a jigsaw.

When attaching cellular polycarbonate to the roof, ordinary drills are used for drilling. Holes are drilled between the ribs at a distance of not less than 4 cm from the edge. To eliminate vibration, the sheets must be held while cutting. After cutting, all chips and debris are removed from the panel cavities.

The ends are sealed with profiles made of aluminum or polycarbonate, similar in color. Such profiles are distinguished by their durability and strength. They are tightly fixed at the edges and do not require additional fastening. If the profile is without perforation, holes are drilled in it to drain the condensed moisture.

The upper ends of the cellular polycarbonate, installed vertically or obliquely, are sealed with aluminum tape, and the lower ends are closed with perforated tape, which prevents the penetration of dust and ensures the removal of condensate.

At the arched structure, both ends are closed with perforated tape. Leaving the end open reduces its durability and transparency.

It is strictly forbidden to seal the ends of the sheet with adhesive tape and hermetically close the lower edges!

In a sheet of cellular polycarbonate, stiffeners are located along the length of the panel, so the structure is built so that the moisture condensed inside flows through the channels, leading out:

if the installation is vertical, then the stiffeners must go vertically;
if pitched - by slope;
in the design in the form of an arch, the ribs are arranged in an arc.

The permissible value of the bending radius must be specified in the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.

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Panel fixing

Cellular polycarbonate is fixed to the frame pointwise using self-tapping screws and thermal washers.

The thermal washer is a plastic sealing washer on a leg with a height corresponding to the thickness of the panel and a lid with a latch. It ensures the reliability and tightness of the fastening of the panel. The leg of the thermal washer, adjacent to the frame, prevents the panel from collapsing. The hole for it should be a little wider to protect against thermal expansion. The distances between the fasteners are 0.30-0.40 m.

To prevent deformation of the sheet, it is forbidden to fix the panels rigidly or overtighten the screws!

To install cellular polycarbonate with their own hands, they use detachable or one-piece, colored or transparent polycarbonate profiles.

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One-piece profiles

The panels are inserted into a special groove in the profile, which must correspond to the thickness of the sheet. The profile is attached to the support using self-tapping screws and thermal washers.

Polycarbonate is a modern polymeric material that belongs to the class of thermoplastics, which has light weight, mechanical strength, low thermal conductivity, and high light transmission. It is widely used in construction as a more practical and durable alternative to silicate glass. With the help of monolithic polycarbonate, vertical glazing is performed in public institutions, children's and medical institutions, and honeycomb material is suitable for the construction of greenhouses, greenhouses and other arched structures. In this article, we will tell you how to fix polycarbonate and correctly connect the sheets to each other so as not to damage it and ensure a secure fit.

Monolithic polycarbonate is a thermoplastic polycarbonate plastic that visually resembles silicate glass. It has light transmission up to 92%, as well as high impact resistance and strength. In construction, monolithic polycarbonate is used to organize vertical glazing, including decorative, for the construction of shop windows, transparent partitions. To fix this material, various frames and holders made of plastic, metal or wood are used. You can correctly fix monolithic polycarbonate in the frame in 2 ways:

Wet method. The technology of fixing polycarbonate plastic with a “wet” method consists in applying a polymer putty of suitable composition along the inner perimeter of the frame before installing the sheet. After inserting the polycarbonate into the holder, the joint is treated with a silicone-based sealant.
dry method. The “dry” fastening technology does not involve the use of putty, in which polycarbonate is fixed and the sheets are connected to each other using special profiles and rubber seals. Self-tapping screws, bolts and nuts are used as fasteners. This mounting option is considered preferable, as it is more accurate and clean.

Important! In the manufacture of structures from monolithic polycarbonate (as the roof of a gazebo, porch or canopy), the sheets are fastened to a metal or wooden frame using special profiles and threaded elements, the distance between which should not exceed 50 cm.

Honeycomb plastic fixation technique

Cellular polycarbonate differs from monolithic material structure, which consists of hollow cells filled with air, formed by internal stiffeners. The translucency of this material is usually not more than 84%, but it has high strength, but low thermal conductivity, therefore it is widely used for the construction of greenhouses, conservatories, winter gardens. Honeycomb plastic bends well, therefore it is suitable for the construction of arched structures. Sheets of this type are fastened as follows:

Before attaching polycarbonate, a metal or wood frame is constructed. To increase the service life of wooden elements, they are coated with an antiseptic or varnish.
Before installing the first sheet of plastic on the frame, a starting profile is installed, into which the polycarbonate edge is tucked.
Sheets are fastened to the profile using a point method using special self-tapping screws with thermal washers equipped with a seal that protects the hole from moisture and cold air.
In order to properly connect polycarbonate sheets to each other, a connecting profile is used to ensure hermetic joining of the material. It is detachable and non-detachable. The detachable connector profile consists of a base, which is installed on the frame using self-tapping screws with a pitch of 30 cm, and a cover that snaps into place after the sheets are mounted.
Plugs are put on the ends of cellular polycarbonate to protect the cells from water leakage, condensate or dirt penetration.

Note! If you connect sheets of material to each other without a connecting profile, gaps form at the junction, leading to moisture infiltration and leakage, which has an extremely negative effect on the state of the structure frame.

Mounting Features

Polycarbonate is a reliable, wear-resistant and durable material from which quite a lot of types of structures can be created. However, in order not to spoil the plastic panels, it is necessary to take into account their features. Experienced craftsmen are advised to take into account during the fastening of polycarbonate, the following nuances:

Polycarbonate plastic is subject to thermal expansion, so it is attached to the frame, taking into account the change in size with increasing temperature.
Holes for fasteners are pre-made using a drill and a drill, the diameter of which is a couple of mm larger than the diameter of the self-tapping screw or bolt.
In order not to wrinkle the sheet or deform the cells, the screws and bolts are not completely tightened, leaving a gap of 2-3 mm.
Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, cellular polycarbonate is destroyed, so it is mounted up on the side that is covered with a film that blocks the sun's rays.
Properly make holes in cellular polycarbonate between partitions so as not to spoil the sheet.
Self-tapping screws for fastening polycarbonate sheets are chosen so that the length of the fastener corresponds to the thickness of the material.

When deciding how to join polycarbonate to each other, keep in mind that if the installation is carried out vertically, then the stiffening ribs of the sheets should also be located vertically. If a pitched structure is mounted, then they are placed along the slope, in arched structures, the stiffeners should go in an arc.

Video instruction

A few years ago, polymer plastic was considered almost a curiosity, but today this material is widely used in everyday life, advertising, various industries and in construction. Polycarbonate is indispensable in individual construction, and especially in civil and industrial. For the construction industry, polycarbonate is available in two types - cellular and cast. At the same time, the strength of the connection, which means the durability and reliability of the entire structure, depends on how the polycarbonate was fastened according to the correct technology.

Methods for fixing monolithic canvases

Since this type of polycarbonate replaces glass in showcases, partitions, windows and other translucent barriers, it is attached using the same elements that glass is attached to. These can be holders in different designs, with the help of which the polymer sheet is fixed in the desired position, or a frame structure into which the cut-out elements are inserted and then fixed. There are dry and wet methods for fixing cast material.

The fastening of monolithic polycarbonate to the frame by the wet method is carried out as follows: on the part of the material that will be in contact with the frame and the perimeter of the frame, a polymer putty is applied that is compatible with both the canvas and the frame material. After that, the joints are treated with sealant. Complete sealing can also be achieved by using specially designed profile gaskets or using rubber strips.

The dry method involves only a mechanical connection. It can be different types of profiles, or other elements. They can also be combined with seals and rubber gaskets. For fastening polycarbonate sheets in this way, different types of threaded connections are used. Dry installation is the neatest and cleanest, which is sometimes very important.

On a note: Regardless of the method of installing cast sheets, it is imperative to take into account the fact of thermal expansion and take a sheet that is a couple of millimeters smaller than necessary.

This will help to avoid further destruction or deformation of the polymer plastic sheets.

Using cast polymer for the construction of verandas, greenhouses, greenhouses and other frame structures, you can not think for a long time about how to fix polycarbonate, but attach sheets with ordinary fasteners using rubber sealing washers: the main thing is to know, the rule is how far to make holes . It is not difficult to remember the fastening step: you need to prepare holes in advance after 45-50 cm. This distance is enough to securely fix the polycarbonate panels. It is advisable to make holes in cast panels with wood drills. During operation, it is necessary to control the drilling zone in order to prevent its heating. When installing, the sheets should fit snugly to the base, but it is undesirable to tighten the bolts too much so that a temperature play is possible in the finished structure.

Ways of fastening cellular cloths

point connection

Today, many consumers already know how to fix cellular polycarbonate, the pitch of the runs and the layout of the fasteners. Since point fixing is the easiest way to install honeycomb sheets, it is also the most popular. For this, self-tapping screws are used, which are equipped with thermal washers. Their use makes it possible to obtain a reliable, hermetic connection of the sheets, does not allow sheets to be crushed, and eliminates “cold bridges”. All this is ensured by the use of thermal washers. The main thing is to choose elements whose leg is equal to the thickness of the canvas used. If the structure is large and long sheets are used, then along their long side it is necessary to make oval holes along the stiffeners.

Those who build or are just planning to build structures made of polymer plastic on their site are usually interested in: how and over what distance to drill polycarbonate. Manufacturers recommend and experienced builders confirm that it is best to fix the sheets after 35-40 cm. If installed more often, the cost of the structure will increase significantly, if less often, this does not guarantee either the quality of the connection or its reliability.

To make holes in honeycomb sheets, use sharp standard drills with the following characteristics:

Drilling angle - 90-115.
Sharpening angle - 30.
Feed rate - 0.3-0.5 mm / rev.
Cutting speed - 15-35 m/min.

In this case, the holes must be made no closer than 4 cm from the edge and in no case fall on the stiffeners.

Profile connection

You can fix polycarbonate with the help of special profiles and already familiar thermal washers and self-tapping screws, especially since you can even install the structure in this way even to the wall of the building. The connection for different types of profile is different. So, if a detachable model is used, then first its base element is installed on the truss system, a sealant is applied to the surface of which, after which canvases are laid on both sides, the gap between which can be up to 4-5 cm. A lid is laid on top and snaps into place with an ordinary wooden mallet . After that, it remains to close the ends with a special plug.

Good to know: If one-piece type profiles are used, the canvases are first connected to each other, and then they are mounted on the finished frame.

When connecting, the profile is stretched and put on a polycarbonate sheet.

Is it possible to fasten sheets horizontally if polycarbonate welding is foreseen and do I need washers? This is the first question that interests everyone who builds or plans to build structures made of polymer plastic on their site. It depends on the choice of welding method, which in turn also depends on the size of the product, the purpose and shape of the parts.

The joining of individual elements by means of hot air welding, when a welding rod is used, foresees drying for 12 hours of those areas on which the operation will be performed. You can connect parts and ultrasonic welding, the amplitude of which should be from 25 to 40 microns.

Many do not really think about how to weld polycarbonate, but they connect the nodes by welding with a hot overlay. This method allows you to connect all the details in the most reliable way. The connection is made at a temperature of 260 to 300 °C.

Polycarbonate mount

Polycarbonate is fastened as follows ... Cellular polycarbonate can be fastened using the same elements as ...

How to properly fix polycarbonate

Mounting monolithic polycarbonate
Installation of cellular polycarbonate
Panel fixing
One-piece profiles
Split profiles
General recommendations

Installation diagram of the sealing tape at the end of the panel.

Mounting monolithic polycarbonate

For work you will need the following inventory:

roulette;
building level;
electric jigsaw or circular saw;
drill;
drill;
screwdriver;
polycarbonate sheets;
self-tapping screws;
gaskets;
thermal washers;
silicone sealant.

So how to fix polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate can be installed on a prepared frame of an inclined or pitched structure using a “dry” or “wet” method.

Scheme of a fence made of monolithic polycarbonate.

In the case of attaching monolithic polycarbonate to steel heavy-duty frames for sealing inside and outside, a rubber seal is first laid, and then a layer of sealant is applied.

Polycarbonate monolithic type has a high coefficient of thermal expansion, as a result, it is necessary to leave large gaps that will eliminate deflections and distortions of the sheet.

Scheme of the device of cellular polycarbonate.

Installation of cellular polycarbonate

Cellular polycarbonate is used for the construction of pitched or arched roofs with a slope of 25-30% (at least 11%).

At the arched structure, both ends are closed with perforated tape. Leaving the end open reduces its durability and transparency.

Scheme of installation of cellular polycarbonate.

It is strictly forbidden to seal the ends of the sheet with adhesive tape and hermetically close the lower edges!

In a sheet of cellular polycarbonate, stiffeners are located along the length of the panel, so the structure is built so that the moisture condensed inside flows through the channels, leading out:

if the installation is vertical, then the stiffeners must go vertically;
if pitched - by slope;
in the design in the form of an arch, the ribs are arranged in an arc.

The permissible value of the bending radius must be specified in the instructions supplied by the manufacturer.

Panel fixing

Cellular polycarbonate is fixed to the frame pointwise using self-tapping screws and thermal washers.

To prevent deformation of the sheet, it is forbidden to fix the panels rigidly or overtighten the screws!

To install cellular polycarbonate with their own hands, they use detachable or one-piece, colored or transparent polycarbonate profiles.

One-piece profiles

Split profiles

Scheme of fastening of one-piece profile.

The detachable profile consists of a "base" and a top snap-on cover. To mount a detachable profile, holes are drilled in the “base” slightly larger than the diameter of the self-tapping screw in increments of 0.30 m. Then the profile is attached to the frame support. A sealant is applied to the “base”, sheets are laid, taking into account a thermal gap of up to 5 cm, a profile cover is placed on top and snapped in with a wooden mallet. The ends are closed with a special plug.

To fix cellular polycarbonate at a right angle, corner profiles should be used. They will perfectly hold the panel and hide the flaws of the corner joint. When the sheet adjoins the wall, a wall profile is used. For the roof ridge, a ridge profile is purchased with a grip of up to 4 cm. It will firmly connect the sheets with any thermal expansion.

When mounting polycarbonate panels, thermal expansion must be taken into account. Light or transparent sheets heat up less than colored ones by 15%!

The surface of cellular polycarbonate is very sensitive to mechanical impacts. Therefore, it is not necessary to remove the protective film from the sheet when attaching.
Polycarbonate cannot be overly clamped.
Small holes drilled in the bottom profiles allow for natural air circulation. In most cases this will be sufficient to prevent steam from condensing in the channels. The top end must be hermetically sealed.
Before installation, the material must be kept for several days in a dry room. Then the ends are sealed with aluminum tape. If there is moisture in the panels, it can be removed by blowing the honeycomb with compressed air.
It is impossible to lay vapor-tight materials (for example, various films) on top of cellular polycarbonate. The evaporating moisture will form a thin water layer between the film and the polycarbonate. As a result, bubbles may appear, the film may peel off or the metallized layer may blacken.
The design of honeycomb polycarbonate roofs must take into account a slope of at least 5° (approximately 9 cm per 1 linear meter) to ensure rainwater runoff.
Walking on the panels is strictly prohibited. If necessary, boards are used, which should be supported by several edges of the panel.
As far as possible, sheets should be stored in a room isolated from external natural factors. Intense exposure to sunlight can cause the surface of the sheet to adhere to the film.

Having made the correct calculation of the amount of materials at the design stage and following the above instructions, the installation of the structure and fixing the polycarbonate with your own hands will not cause any problems.

How to fix polycarbonate? This question is asked by many owners of private houses. There are "dry" and "wet" methods.

How to fix polycarbonate

Panel cutting

Cellular polycarbonate and polycarbonate profiles are easily cut. For the best cutting quality, use high-speed circular saws with a stop, equipped with a blade with fine, straight teeth, reinforced with carbide. When cutting a panel, the profiles must be securely supported to avoid vibration. Can be cut with a band saw.

After cutting, it is necessary to remove chips from the internal cavities of the panel.

Hole drilling

Drill specifications:

Sharpening angle - 30

Drilling angle - 90-118

Cutting speed - 10-40 m / min.

Feed rate - 0.2-0.5 mm / rev.

Panel edge sealing

It is necessary to properly close the ends of the panels. In the vertical and inclined position of the panels, the upper ends are hermetically sealed with a solid aluminum self-adhesive tape, and the lower ends with a perforated tape that prevents dust from penetrating and ensures condensate drainage.

In arched structures, it is necessary to close both ends with perforated tape:

Use similar colors polycarbonate profiles. They are aesthetic, comfortable and reliable. The design of the profile provides for a tight fixation on the ends of the panel and does not require additional fastening.

To ensure the drainage of condensate, drill several holes in the profile.

You can not leave the ends of cellular polycarbonate open.

You can not stick the ends with ordinary tape.

It is impossible to hermetically close the lower ends of the panels.

Orientation of panels during design and installation

Internal stiffeners are located in cellular polycarbonate in length (which can be 3, 6 or 12 m). the panel in your design must be oriented so that the condensate that forms inside it can drain through the internal channels of the panel and be discharged to the outside.

When installing vertical glazing, the stiffening ribs of the panels should be located vertically, and in a pitched structure - along the slope.

In an arched structure, the stiffeners should go in an arc.

Consider these installation conditions when designing, calculating the number of panels, cutting them and, of course, during installation.

For outdoor use, cellular polycarbonate is used with a protective UV-stabilizing layer applied to the outer surface of the sheet. The protective film on this side of the sheet has a special marking. In order not to be mistaken, the panels must be mounted in a film, and removed immediately after installation.

Panels must not be bent at a radius less than the minimum bending radius specified by the manufacturer for a panel of the thickness and structure you have chosen.

Panel orientation rules must not be violated.

Point fastening of panels

For point fixing cellular polycarbonate to the frame, use self-tapping screws and special thermal washers.

Thermal washer consists of a plastic washer with a foot (its height corresponds to the thickness of the panel), a sealing washer and a snap-on cover.

Thermal washers provide reliable and tight fastening of the panel, as well as eliminate the "cold bridges" created by self-tapping screws. In addition, the leg of the thermal washer, resting against the frame of the structure, will prevent the panel from collapsing.

To compensate for thermal expansion, the holes in the panel should be 2-3 mm larger than the diameter of the thermal washer leg, and if the panel is long, they should be elongated.

Panels must not be rigidly fixed.

Do not use nails, rivets, unsuitable washers to fasten the panels.

You can't overtighten the screws.

Connecting and fixing panels

For mounting cellular polycarbonate one-piece or split transparent and colored polycarbonate profiles are used.

Mounting with one-piece profiles.

Panels with a width of 500-1050 mm are inserted into the grooves of profiles corresponding to the thickness of cellular polycarbonate. The profile is fastened to the longitudinal supports of the frame using self-tapping screws equipped with thermal washers.

Split polycarbonate profile"Polyskrep" consists of two parts: the bottom - "base" and the top - snap-on cover.

1. In the “base”, drill holes with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the self-tapping screw in increments of 300 mm.

2. Attach the "base" to the longitudinal support of the frame with self-tapping screws and lay the panels on both sides, leaving a "thermal gap" of 3-5 mm.

3. Snap the "cover" of the profile along the entire length with a wooden mallet.

What you need to consider when designing a structure frame for cellular polycarbonate

When installing a covering from cellular polycarbonate, it is necessary to take into account:

standard sizes of panels and their economical cutting;
impact of wind and snow loads;
thermal expansion of panels;
allowable bending radii of panels for arched structures;
the need to complete the panels with mounting elements (connecting and end profiles, self-adhesive tapes, self-tapping screws, thermal washers).

The standard panel width is 2100 mm. The length of the panels can be 3000, 6000 or 12000 mm. Stiffening ribs are located along the length of the panel. The edges of the panels along their long side should be located on the supporting supports of the frame. Therefore, the longitudinal supports are installed in increments of 1050 mm or 700 mm (+ clearance for the distance between the panels). To connect the panels to each other with their simultaneous fastening to the longitudinal supports of the frame, it is necessary to use special connecting profiles. At the transverse crate, the panels should be fastened with self-tapping screws equipped with thermal washers.

In principle, it is possible to mount the whole panel, but practice shows that it is more harmonious and reliable than the construction of panels with a width of 1050 and 700 mm. During their installation, a smaller number of thermal washers is used, and sometimes you can do without point fastening at all.

The correct choice of the pitch of the longitudinal supports and the transverse lathing is the most important condition for the reliability of a structure made of cellular polycarbonate.

Corner connection of panels

If it is necessary to pair panels of cellular polycarbonate at a right angle, you can use the corner polycarbonate profiles.

Transparent, tinted bronze, blue, green, turquoise and diffuse white opal are standard colors polycarbonate profiles for mounting cellular polycarbonate.

corner polycarbonate profiles securely hold the panels and allow you to make the corner connection invisible.

Wall connection

When adjoining panels to the wall, use the wall polycarbonate profile.

Pairing panels in the ridge

The "wings" of the ridge polycarbonate profile have a powerful grip - 40 mm - sufficient for reliable connection of panels and their thermal expansion.

When using other profiles, make sure that they meet these installation conditions.

Neutralization of thermal expansion

When the ambient temperature changes, cellular polycarbonate panels are subject to temperature deformation. When designing and assembling a structure, it is not difficult to calculate and take into account the degree of change in the linear dimensions of the mounted panels, but it is absolutely necessary that, in the mounted form, the panels can compress and expand by the amount they require without causing any damage to your structure.

The change in the length (width) of the sheet is calculated by the formula:

where L is the length (width) of the panel (m)

∆T - temperature change (°C)

0.065 mm/ °Сm - coefficient of linear thermal expansion of cellular polycarbonate.

For example, with seasonal temperature changes from -40 to +40°C, each meter of the panel will undergo a change by ∆L = 1x80x0.065 = 5.2mm.

It should be noted that colored panels heat up 10-15°C more than transparent and white ones.

∆L for "bronze" panels can reach 6 mm per meter of their length and width.

In areas with less severe climatic conditions, the change in the linear dimensions of the panels will, of course, be significantly lower.

It is necessary to leave thermal gaps when connecting and fastening panels to each other in a plane, as well as in corner and ridge joints, using special connecting, corner and ridge profiles for installation. When fixing the panels to the frame of the structure, it is advisable to use self-tapping screws with special thermal washers, and the holes in the panels must be made a little larger (see "Spot fastening of panels").

It is impossible to mount structures on the street without taking into account the thermal deformation of the panels. This can cause them to warp in the summer and damage to the point of breaking in the winter.

How to fix polycarbonate

Internal stiffening ribs are located in cellular polycarbonate along the length (which can be 3, 6 or 12 m). the panel in your design must be oriented so that the condensate that forms inside it can drain through the internal channels of the panel and be discharged to the outside.

Proper fastening of polycarbonate to metal - features of fastening to a metal frame

Polycarbonate is very popular today, which is easily explained by its characteristic qualities. The material is light and flexible, transparent as glass and strong as metal. In addition, polycarbonate is able to withstand temperatures from -45 to +120 0 C.

In this regard, the use of polycarbonate has a fairly wide range. It is excellent for the manufacture of arched and domed canopies, various canopies and stair railings, advertising structures, greenhouses and fences.

Panel Orientation

The stiffening ribs of polycarbonate sheets are distributed along the length. To achieve maximum structural strength, it is necessary to properly position the hollow channels:

If the panel is installed vertically, then the channels are arranged vertically.
In arcuate structures, the channels should be parallel to the bend line.
In inclined type structures - in the direction of the slope.

In the manufacture of external structures, polycarbonate should be used, which on the outside has protection from ultraviolet rays in the form of a film of special substances. On it, the manufacturer indicates all the necessary information. For the correct arrangement of polycarbonate sheets, the film is not removed during the installation process.

Tilt angle

Flat roofs made of polycarbonate must have a certain angle of inclination. If the length of the structure does not exceed 6 meters, then the slope can be 5 degrees. Otherwise, the angle of inclination must be increased.

Permissible bending of the polycarbonate arch

On the theoretical side, the bending radius of the arch structure can be no more than a value that is 150 thicknesses of the material used.

For each type of polycarbonate on the protective film, the manufacturer indicates the appropriate parameters. Therefore, it is best to focus on these data.

Polycarbonate Cutting Tools

It is best to cut polycarbonate with special tools:

Panels with a thickness of not more than 1 cm are cut with a construction knife. However, with large volumes of work, it is better not to use such a tool.
The most accessible tool is a jigsaw.
If it is possible to purchase a high-speed saw with an emphasis, then you should pay attention to the teeth of the blade. They should be fine, unset and coated with hard metal.
When cutting polycarbonate with a band saw, you also need to know the relevant parameters. It is allowed to use a tape no more than 2 cm wide and no more than 1.5 mm thick. The teeth should be spaced at no more than 3.5 mm pitch, and the cutting speed should not exceed 1000 meters per minute.

Before cutting, the polycarbonate sheet should be well fixed to avoid vibration. Chips that have formed during the cutting process must be removed immediately.

Hole drilling rules

Holes in polycarbonate should be drilled between the stiffeners. The distance from the edge must be at least twice the diameter of the drill.

Hole drilling conditions are as follows:

The sharpening of the drill should have an angle of 30 0 .
Holes must be drilled strictly at a right angle at a speed of no more than 40 m / min.
The hole diameter must be chosen so that it exceeds the same parameter of the fastener by 3 mm.
Work should be interrupted periodically to remove the resulting chips and cool the drill.

The process of sealing the ends of the sheet

During storage and transportation of polycarbonate, the manufacturer protects the ends of the sheets with temporary adhesive tape, which must be removed before sealing.

The upper edges of the material are sealed with adhesive aluminum tape, and the lower ends are sealed with perforated tape. If the ends are not inserted into the groove or profile, then they are closed over the tape with an end profile. At the same time, holes must be made in the lower profile at a distance of 30 cm from each other, through which condensate will drain.

Arched structures assume the sealing of all edges by analogy with the lower end.

Fastening cellular polycarbonate to a metal frame

Polycarbonate fasteners to metal must be made with elements that have a stainless steel drill or a galvanized tip at the end. Sealing rubber washers or thermal washers are mandatory.

When deciding at what distance to fix polycarbonate, it is worth remembering that the fasteners are located at a distance of 40-60 cm from each other. At the same time, the self-tapping screw must be screwed in strictly at a right angle, without applying much effort at the end of twisting. This will help to avoid deformation of the surface.

Rules for fixing monolithic polycarbonate

To resolve the issue of how to properly attach polycarbonate to metal, several methods are used.

Frame mount

It is possible to fasten a monolithic polycarbonate to a metal frame in the form of a frame. The main condition is that in the frame it is necessary to make grooves up to 2.5 cm deep.

To fix the sheet in the frame, you can use one of two methods:

With the wet method, the edges of the frame and seals are treated with polymer putty or silicone sealant. This option can be used on wooden or metal frames.
The dry method involves the use of fasteners such as screws, bolts, nuts, self-tapping screws and press washers. This option has one feature: the obligatory presence of rubber gaskets or plastic profiles in which there are no plasticizers. It is not allowed to stick the sealant to the polycarbonate sheet. Fasteners should be located at a distance of 0.5 meters from each other. The recommended indent from the edge is at least 2 cm. Using this method, you can solve the problem of how to fix the polycarbonate on the canopy.

Using a support or crate to secure the panels

If a large area is covered with a material, then fasteners can be used to fasten a monolithic polycarbonate, as is the case with a frame.

Small structures are covered with polycarbonate using polyamide glue or double-sided tape. Outdoor work can be done with silicone adhesive, which is more resistant to various atmospheric phenomena.

In the event that increased transparency of the fastening is required, you can use a polyurethane-based adhesive. However, before using it, the surfaces to be bonded are degreased with isopropyl alcohol.

Varieties of fasteners for attaching polycarbonate to metal

Point fastening for polycarbonate to a metal frame is carried out using thermal washers. The distance between fasteners should not exceed 30-40 cm.

This method has one drawback, indoor appearance may not be very attractive. This is due to a mismatch between the connecting profiles and the frame.

Profile fastening involves fixing aluminum or polycarbonate connecting profiles on a metal frame, into which panels are subsequently inserted. In this case, you need to know how polycarbonate is attached to the metal.

The disadvantage of this method is the exit of the panel from the grooves at an increased load on the polycarbonate surface.

Mixed fastening of polycarbonate involves the use of both options in order to compensate for their shortcomings.

Panel fixing materials

To solve the problem of how to attach polycarbonate to metal, you need to use the following:

Different types of profile, including end, corner, connecting, wall and ridge.
Fasteners in the form of thermal washers and mini-washers.
Different types of plugs.
Adhesive tape for ends, including perforated tape for bottom edges.
Profile seals.

Types of profiles and their purpose

With the help of end profiles, the edges of polycarbonate are protected, and the short shelf is always located outside.
The connecting profiles can be detachable universal or solid H-shaped. They are designed to connect the edges of panels. It is important to remember that only detachable profiles can be attached to the frame.
Corner profile allows you to connect elements at right angles.
The wall profile makes it possible to tightly adjoin the panel to the wall. Can be used as an end profile.
The ridge profile is required to connect the panels on the roof ridge, provided that the elements are connected at an angle greater than 90 0 .

Varieties of thermal washers

Fastening polycarbonate to metal is carried out by different types of thermal washers. These fasteners may differ in the following ways:

Design features make it possible to single out individual and universal thermal washers. In the first case, the element has a length in accordance with the thickness of the sheet, which prevents pinching or deformation of the polycarbonate. The second option does not have a leg, therefore, it can be used for material of any thickness.
Depending on the material of manufacture, fasteners can be made of stainless steel (for covering large areas), polycarbonate (ensure the tightness of the connection without damaging the panel), polypropylene (for work indoors or in the shade).
Mini washers are used for panels of low thickness.

To make the design attractive, and to protect the ends of the profiles from water, dust and insects, it is necessary to use plugs.

How to fix the panels on the canopy

Under the influence of high temperature, there may be some change in polycarbonate, therefore, certain installation rules must be observed:

Mandatory presence of gaps.
Large mounting holes.
The use of thermal washers.
Application of special types of a profile.

To perform a high-quality installation of the panel, you need to take care of the proper storage of the purchased material:

Sheets should be laid on a flat surface with a protective film up.
The height of the stack should not exceed 2.5 meters.
Store the material in a dry, ventilated area away from heating devices.
It is not recommended to cover the material with polyethylene.

In addition, it should be remembered that the protective coating is removed from the panel only at the end of the installation work.

The quality of work largely depends on the compatibility of the materials used. Therefore, it is not allowed to use polyurethane, PVC, amine-based sealant and acrylic with polycarbonate.

When drafting a frame, one should take into account various types of loads, temperature effects, the dimensions of the material used, the permissible bending radius, and the direction of wastewater. It is very important to know how far to fix the polycarbonate.

The optimum temperature for working with polycarbonate lies in the range from +10 to +20 0 С.

If it is necessary to move on the surface of the material, supports should be used, the length of which is about 3 meters and the width is 0.4 meters. It is best to cover them with a soft cloth.

If you need to remove adhesive residue after removing the protective film, you can use a neutral detergent. After cleaning, you can wipe the surface with a soft cloth.

Polycarbonate fasteners to metal: how to fix it correctly, how to fix it on a canopy to a metal frame, through what distance, how monolithic and cellular polycarbonate is attached

The monolithic version has a solid structure, like ordinary glass, but due to the base in the form of polymers, it is many times stronger and lighter than the same glass, and additionally has an increased resistance to physical impact due to its flexibility. Such elements are used as a complete replacement of glass in residential and public buildings, as well as shopping, entertainment and scientific complexes.

The honeycomb element consists of a pair of thin plates interconnected by special stiffening ribs, the space between which is free.

This material is widely used in construction, utility and utility rooms and summer cottages, especially as a coating for greenhouse complexes.

How to Orient Panels

Polycarbonate honeycomb elements along their length have ribs that ensure their rigidity, therefore, during installation, they must always be positioned in such a way that the hollow channels inside them have an outlet to the outside. This requirement is dictated by the need for condensate to escape from them, which can form due to the temperature difference.

When mounting such plates as vertical glazing, the ribs providing rigidity are also placed vertically. When fastening to the frame as a ramp or arch, you must always orient them so that the internal hollow channels inside go along the slopes or along the arc of the arch, respectively.

Today's manufacturing technology for both monolithic and honeycomb panels implies that each of them has a front and inner side. They are distinguished from each other due to the presence on the first of a special protective coating in the form of a film with a marking, which serves as protection for it until the moment of complete installation, and is removed at the final stage.

When installing polycarbonate panels as an arched structure, the maximum bending radius for a particular type of material, indicated in its marking, should be taken into account and never exceeded.

1. Sheet cutting

Polymer boards are supplied in standard sheets, which, as a rule, always have larger dimensions than required, so one of the main operations with them is to cut them into pieces with the desired dimensions. This operation will have to be done both during and during the installation of a polycarbonate roof with your own hands.

The operation itself for cutting optimal pieces from a solid panel is extremely simple, since the material is easily cut. To do this, you can use different tools for cutting, from a hand hacksaw to an electric grinder or a jigsaw.

In the process of polymer cutting, regardless of the selected tool, it is impossible to avoid the occurrence of material vibrations during its operation, which can adversely affect the quality of cuts and lead to problems during installation and fitting of finished parts, up to the rejection of some of them. Therefore, in order to make the task as easy as possible and level out side fluctuations, the material is securely fixed beforehand.

In the case of a honeycomb structure, after cutting, the cavities in the resulting elements are cleaned of chips, because if they remain clogged, condensate drainage will be difficult and moisture will accumulate inside the plates, which is especially dangerous during frost, as water frozen inside the panel can damage it.

2. End sealing

Honeycomb plates require sealing of their ends. The one on top can be pasted over with ordinary adhesive tape, and to seal the bottom, it is better to use a special perforated tape to drain moisture condensing inside the sheet.

For unhindered outflow of the condensing liquid from the panel, it is required to organize several holes in its end part, identical to those used to fix the polymer sheet.

Cellular polycarbonate mount

It is possible to fasten carbonate plates to structures of almost any material, its type only affects the choice of elements for fasteners. As a rule, these are self-tapping screws for wood or metal with a self-tapping sting, which come with special thermal washers with a rubberized surface.

Thermal washers have a special leg and are selected according to its size so that it matches the thickness of the panel fixed by it. This design not only protects the sheet structure from excessive deformation, but also reduces heat losses through direct contact with the self-tapping screw, which in this case acts as a cold conductor through polycarbonate.

Therefore, self-tapping screws with thermal washers are a universal fastener, regardless of the material of the bearing surface, which is sheathed with polymer panels.

When mounting, it is advisable to insert self-tapping screws into pre-drilled holes in plastic, which must meet the following requirements:

Firstly, holes can only be drilled between stiffeners, and only at a distance of at least 4 cm from the edge of the slab.
Secondly, the holes should provide for the thermal expansion of the material, which should be able to move on the fasteners due to the fact that the hole in it is one and a half millimeters larger than the diameter of the thermal washer leg.
In the case of a large length of plastic, the holes in it for fixing should not be not only of large diameter, but also of a longitudinally elongated shape.
When drilling, it is extremely important to observe the most straight angle of the hole with an error of no more than 20 degrees, otherwise, when the washer is fixed, a distortion will occur and the panel will not be securely attached to the supporting structure.

Knowing the technology of fixing polycarbonate, you can easily and reliably sheathe them with almost any structure. However, it is also necessary to master the technology of joining panels to each other, which involves the use of special elements for these purposes - profiles, which can be either fixed or detachable.

The first are used with panels with a thickness of 4 to 10 mm. The second are Poliskrep profiles, capable of joining together plates from 6 to 16 mm in thickness. Removable profiles are assembled from a pair of elements: the lower one, which acts as a base, and the upper one, a cover with a latch.

Such polymer connecting profiles are necessary for the assembly of arched or pitched structures, but are also suitable for completely sheer surfaces. One latch connects a pair of panels with a width of 50 to 105 cm, and it is fixed on self-tapping screws. When pairing individual panels at an angle of 90 degrees, an angular docking profile is provided, and in case of adjoining a wall, a special wall profile is provided.

The technology for fixing a removable profile fits into several operations:

Drilling a hole for a self-tapping screw in the base.
Fixing the base to the longitudinal structure and laying the panels with a gap of 5 mm required to compensate for the thermal expansion of the material.
Snapping the profile cover with a wooden mallet.
Temperature value.

Often, when sheathing greenhouses with cellular polycarbonate, the plates are overlapped one on top of the other, instead of using special joining profiles. This option is optimal and possible only in the case of a small thickness of the sheets, which does not exceed 6 mm, since due to the thinness of this they have increased flexibility, due to which they can “walk” or even jump out of the fixing profile.

But thick polymer plates with a thickness of 8 mm or more with this technique will form very noticeable "steps" due to overlapping each other, which can only be solved by using a connecting profile.

You should be aware that fastening polycarbonate sheets with an overlap method can lead to the following consequences:

Firstly, with this method, the tightness of the sheathed structure will always be violated, up to a draft, complete blowing out of internal heat and even clogging of debris and precipitation under the sheathing of the structure;
Secondly, overlapped sheets experience a much greater impact from gusts of wind, which means that if the fixation is not strong enough, they can be torn off or broken.

Mounting monolithic polycarbonate

1. How and to what can carbonate be attached

Monolithic carbonate has two ways of fastening, however, both of them require a base in the form of a supporting frame that ensures reliable fixation of the slab:

First method- "wet", implies the use of a special polymer lubricant. The installation of elements in this case is organized with gaps that compensate for the expansion of the material under the influence of temperature. This option is also appropriate when inserting a polymer plate into a wooden frame. In the case of a metal frame, rubber gaskets are used in combination with a sealant that is applied to the inner and outer clamping surface.
Second method- "dry" installation, does not require any sealants and makes it possible to install the panel directly on the rubber seal. Since the structure itself is not airtight, it provides drainage to drain water.

2. Is it possible to overlap the sheets

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material that reacts to temperature fluctuations by changing its dimensions. Therefore, it contracts in cold weather and expands in hot weather. If this fact is not taken into account in the process of fastening sheets from it, most likely, sooner or later they will be damaged.

This is especially true for monolithic polymer elements, which not only have a higher expansion coefficient, but also do not have structural flexibility in the form of voids and profiles. Therefore, their use in combination with the technology of rigid fastening - overlap, is impossible.

Temperature value

Polycarbonate is an unpretentious and rather hardy material and, in relation to the ambient temperature, can be operated in the range from -40 to +120 degrees Celsius. However, the polymer on the basis of which it is made, under the influence of temperature, can both expand and contract, which is expressed in its coefficient of expansion equal to 0.065 mm per degree of temperature for each meter of sheet.

Therefore, to calculate the real expansion, you need to calculate the limiting temperature difference for the year and multiply it by 0.065 mm. For example, when installing in an average climatic zone with temperatures from -40 to +50 degrees

Celsius clearance should be about 6 mm per linear meter of plastic. In the case of painting, the heating of the sheets increases by an average of 10 - 15 degrees, which means that they will expand more, that is, by about 6.5 mm per meter of the plate.

Carbide blades with fine, straight teeth are excellent for cutting polymers, as they leave the most even and accurate cut.
Do not rush to remove the protective film from the sheets immediately upon purchase, it was created not only to protect the material from damage, dirt and scratches during transportation and storage, but also during the installation operation.
The upper ends of the polymer panels must be closed. To do this, it is recommended to use an unusual adhesive tape, and a special tape. The lower ends, on the contrary, are open to ensure the removal of condensed moisture.
It is not advisable to strongly tighten the self-tapping fixing plates, and also, in general, to rigidly fasten the entire panel, which must have a certain degree of freedom in order to "breathe" expanding and contracting during periods of warming and cooling, respectively.