What Are Polycarbonate Sheets Used For? Complete Applications Guide

Understanding Polycarbonate Sheets

Polycarbonate is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer characterized by exceptional strength, impact resistance, and versatility. Available at Plastics Canada in clear, smoky, and bronze colors, polycarbonate offers properties that surpass traditional materials like glass and acrylic in many applications.

Key Properties That Drive Applications

Exceptional Impact Resistance

Polycarbonate sheets are virtually unbreakable, offering 250 times the impact strength of glass and significantly outperforming acrylic (which offers 10 times glass strength). This makes polycarbonate the preferred choice for high-impact and safety-critical applications across Canada—from hailstorms in Alberta to heavy snow loads in Quebec.

Lightweight Construction

Despite its superior strength, polycarbonate weighs significantly less than glass, simplifying transportation, installation, and structural support requirements. A 4' x 8' polycarbonate sheet is easy to handle and install, even for DIY projects.

Optical Clarity

Polycarbonate transmits light with minimal distortion while blocking harmful UV radiation. Clear polycarbonate offers excellent transparency comparable to glass, with options for smoky and bronze tints to control heat and glare.

Weather Resistance

Polycarbonate withstands extreme Canadian weather—from Vancouver's rain to Calgary's chinooks and Toronto's ice storms. Proper UV-protected sheets (like those from Plastics Canada) maintain performance through temperature extremes from -40°C to +120°C.

Thermal Insulation

While solid polycarbonate sheets offer moderate insulation, they still outperform single-pane glass. The material's properties help reduce heat transfer in both summer and winter applications.

Easy to Fabricate

Polycarbonate can be easily cut, drilled, and formed using standard tools. It can even be cold-bent, enabling curved applications without heat application—perfect for DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors alike.

Popular Applications for Polycarbonate Sheets

1. Greenhouse Construction & Agriculture

Greenhouse Panels

Polycarbonate sheets dominate greenhouse construction across Canada due to their unique combination of benefits:

• Superior light transmission for optimal plant growth
• UV protection shields plants from harmful radiation while allowing beneficial light
• Impact resistance withstands hail, wind, and physical damage
• Weather-tight performance in harsh Canadian climates
• Longevity with proper UV protection (10-15 years)

Recommended sizes for greenhouses:

• 24" x 48" sheets for small hobby greenhouses
• 4' x 8' sheets for standard greenhouse panels
• 4' x 12' sheets or 4' x 16' sheets for large commercial greenhouses

Cold Frames and Garden Structures

Garden sheds, cold frames, and protective plant covers benefit from polycarbonate's durability, insulation, and light transmission properties.

2. Residential & DIY Projects

Pergola and Patio Roofing

One of the most popular applications in Canada, polycarbonate roofing creates comfortable outdoor living spaces:

• Protects from rain while allowing natural light
• Bronze and smoky tints reduce glare and heat
• Withstands heavy snow loads (important for Canadian winters)
• Easy installation for DIY homeowners

Carport and Parking Shelters

Protect vehicles from Canadian weather:

• Snow and ice shedding capability
• UV-protected to prevent degradation
• Clear or tinted options for light control
• Lightweight reduces structural requirements

Recommended: 4' x 12' sheets or 4' x 16' sheets for standard carport spans

Skylights and Roof Windows

Natural daylighting solutions:

• Allows light penetration while maintaining energy efficiency
• Shatter-resistant for overhead safety
• Blocks UV radiation to protect interior furnishings
• Clear or tinted based on heat control needs

Deck Covers and Sunrooms

Extend outdoor living seasons:

• Weather protection for three-season use
• Light transmission maintains open, airy feeling
• Impact resistance handles falling branches and debris
• Temperature resistance for Canadian extremes

Pool Enclosures

Year-round pool enjoyment:

• Creates warm, protected swimming environment
• Reduces heating costs by capturing solar energy
• UV protection prevents degradation from chlorine exposure
• Easy to clean and maintain

3. Commercial & Industrial Applications

Roofing Systems

Commercial building roofing benefits from polycarbonate's performance:

• Warehouse skylights for natural daylighting
• Factory roofing panels
• Commercial patio coverings
• Walkway protection

Safety Barriers and Protective Enclosures

Transparent polycarbonate barriers provide protection while maintaining visibility:

• Retail store protective barriers
• Machine guarding in industrial settings
• Construction site barriers
• Hockey rink boards and sports facilities
• Safety glazing for high-traffic areas

Signage and Display

Commercial applications take advantage of polycarbonate's clarity and durability:

• Outdoor business signs (weather-resistant)
• Point-of-sale displays
• Product protection cases
• Advertising panels

Available sizes for signage: 12" x 12", 12" x 24", 24" x 24", 24" x 36"

Glazing and Windows

As a glass alternative, polycarbonate sheets are used in windows where impact resistance and safety are priorities:

• Security windows for commercial buildings
• Vandal-resistant glazing
• Storm-resistant windows in coastal areas
• Temporary construction barriers

4. Specialized Applications

Privacy Partitions

Create functional space division:

• Office cubicle dividers
• Restaurant and café partitions
• Indoor/outdoor privacy screens
• Flexible room dividers

Smoky and bronze options provide privacy while allowing light transmission: Browse tinted options

DIY Projects

Canadian makers and hobbyists use polycarbonate for countless creative applications:

• Custom window replacement
• Workshop protective shields
• Motorcycle windshields
• Boat windscreens
• Outdoor furniture
• Art installations
• Photography backdrops
• Trade show displays

Industrial Equipment Covers

Manufacturing facilities use transparent polycarbonate for:

• Control panel covers
• Equipment guards
• Electronic housing
• Instrument panels

Installation and Maintenance Best Practices

Installation Tips

• Install UV-protected surface facing the sun (marked side)
• Allow for thermal expansion in fastening systems
• Use compatible sealants and gaskets
• Drill pilot holes slightly larger than fasteners
• Protect edges from moisture ingress
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for your specific application

Maintenance Guidelines

• Clean every 3-6 months with mild soap and water
• Avoid harsh chemicals, solvents, and abrasive cleaners
• Use soft cloths or sponges to prevent scratching
• Inspect edges and seals annually for damage
• Address any cracks or damage immediately

Maintenance Tip: Canadian winters require extra attention—clear snow buildup promptly to prevent stress on the material, and check seals after freeze-thaw cycles.