The sheets are attached to the base or with stainless steel bolts. But many people are concerned about the question: how to attach polycarbonate to a metal frame so that water does not get into the joints? For this case, thermal washers are provided, specially designed for installing polycarbonate.
Most often they are produced with a diameter of 30 mm. Such hardware has a silicone base in the form of an O-ring, the purpose of which is to completely prevent water from entering the connection. The screw screwed in from above is additionally protected by a plastic cap.
The material is mounted with the UV-protected side facing outward - it is covered with plastic film, which shows installation instructions. The polycarbonate canopy is fastened with hardware in increments of 30-40 cm. During installation, the thermal expansion of the plastic is taken into account - the diameter of the holes for thermal washers should be 2-3 mm larger than the diameter of the fastener itself.
To do this, holes are made between the stiffeners. It is very important not to squeeze the thermal washers, otherwise cracks will form. It is also important to screw in the hardware strictly perpendicular to the sheet - this will help avoid deformation of the material.
To do this, the joints of adjacent sheets are fixed together with plastic or aluminum H-shaped profile with a standard size of 6 m. Before installation, the protective film is peeled off from the edges by 5 cm. After this, the edge of the sheet is inserted into the profile to a depth of 2 cm. A 5 mm gap is provided for the thermal expansion of the plastic.
Unprotected ends are covered with aluminum tape. A solid tape is used for the outer part, perforated for the inner part. The purpose of the exterior is to protect against moisture, dirt and insects. Perforated prevents dust from entering and condensation. For even better protection, the joints are treated with sealant. After the polycarbonate is attached to the roof or frame, the protective film is removed from it.
If an arched one is installed, it becomes necessary to bend the material. The bend is made only along the line of the air channels. To bend a sheet, one end is fixed in a vice and the other is bent. It is important to follow the instructions - for a material of a certain grade and thickness there is a minimum permissible bending radius.
Before attaching polycarbonate to, it is important to read the manufacturer's instructions. Only with proper installation will the gazebo last a long time. Otherwise, cracks may occur, dirt will get into the voids, and the material itself will collapse. By following simple rules, you will quickly and efficiently attach the material to the frame.
The technique of attaching polycarbonate to a metal frame makes it possible to implement the most various options building structures, including canopies and domed and arched roofing.
Some of the remarkable properties of polycarbonate that make it so attractive to the average user include:
Let's add such an important detail as the ease of installation of covering elements made of this material.
In addition to all of the above, canopies of various classes, acoustic barriers, greenhouses, fencing structures and much more are made from this material.
On domestic market There are two types of polycarbonate products (cellular or honeycomb and with a monolithic structure), each of which has modifications that differ in the thickness and color of the material. They are made from the same raw materials, but have many structural and decorative differences.
When choosing each of the known versions of polycarbonate, we are guided by the following considerations (initial data):
Thus, when constructing greenhouses, canopies and canopies, preference is given to lighter cellular polycarbonate, and for decorative design For fences and other durable buildings, it is more convenient to use monolithic panels.
The cost of a polycarbonate sheet can vary greatly; it all depends on the modification, thickness and size of the product being offered. Moreover, each user chooses the price range that he can afford (without compromising the quality of the purchased material).
Regarding the question of how to attach polycarbonate to metal, it should be noted that each such product is accompanied by instructions that describe in detail the procedure for its installation. Due to the variety of its shapes, this material allows you to create complex shapes and original designs with fastening mainly on a substrate (frame or profile).
High strength properties of structures made from this material are achieved with appropriate orientation of the hollow channels included in its structure. Thus, when installing polycarbonate panels vertically, the greatest strength is ensured by their orientation from top to bottom, and for curved structures - parallel to the bend contour. For inclined elements, maximum rigidity can be obtained by placing sheets in the direction of the slope.
At external installation Such products, as a rule, use polycarbonate with a protective coating that protects against UV radiation. All information on the type of protection and method of laying the panels is usually provided on the protective film, so it is not recommended to remove it until the installation of the products is completed.
Before attaching polycarbonate to metal, you need to familiarize yourself with the restrictions on the permissible parameters of its installation, such as, for example:
In addition, the list of restrictions stipulates the type of hardware (fastening elements) or polymer materials used to secure workpieces, the procedure for installing sealing gaskets, and much more.
Before attaching polycarbonate to a metal frame, we advise you to pay attention to the fact that to install the sheets you will need the following set of tools:
In addition, before starting work, you should prepare self-tapping screws with a galvanized tip (or of stainless steel) and a set of thermal washers that ensure reliable sealing of the joints.
Even before they are carried out, you also need to pay attention to the following points:
1 There are two types of polycarbonate fastening: frame and profile. In the first case, a frame with grooves up to 25 mm deep, made of wood, metal or plastic, is used. The internal dimensions of this design are selected in accordance with the dimensions of the workpiece used (taking into account the required clearances). When choosing the second option, special guide profiles are used for fastening. 2 Fixation on the profile frame can be carried out in two ways. This is the so-called “wet” method, which involves the use of special putty and sealants, and the “dry” method (using self-tapping screws, screws and bolted connections). 3 Self-tapping screws are screwed in perpendicular to the laying plane so as not to deform the material by excessive pressure. 4 During installation, it is mandatory to use sealing elements made in the form of rubber gaskets without plasticizers or a plastic profile.
Gluing sealing gaskets to polycarbonate, as well as attaching it directly to metal, is not allowed.
5 The spacer fixation step is 50 cm (taking into account a two-centimeter space from the edge of the frame). 6 When working with the “wet” method, you can use polyamide glue or double-sided adhesive tape (for lightweight structures). For external installation, weather-resistant silicone compounds are used. 7 Before gluing prefabricated elements, their surfaces are degreased using a solvent, which is usually used as isopropyl alcohol.When describing the upcoming work, we will consider the option of profile fixation of workpieces on a metal frame using the “dry” fastening method.
In conclusion, we note that there are often situations when, during operation, an incorrectly secured sheet is torn off by the wind and destroyed. To restore the surface of the structure, it is necessary to remove the remains of the destroyed material, lay new seals along the guide profiles, and lay a pre-prepared sheet of the required size on top of them. The new workpiece is fastened using the method we have already discussed earlier.
The issue of attaching polycarbonate to a metal base is of concern not only professional builders, but also ordinary summer residents, because it is from this material that you can make a high-quality greenhouse for your plants. Of course, you will be able to get a satisfactory result only if you know in advance about all the necessary actions, but we will help you with this now. Let's look at the main advantages of using polycarbonate material and carefully understand the nuances of working with it.
Polycarbonate is deservedly considered one of the most popular materials of our time. IN individual construction They use predominantly the cellular variety, while when organizing decorative partitions and dividing walls indoors, builders more often use monolithic polycarbonate.
Among the main advantages of this particular material are the following:
As an additional advantage of polycarbonate, we can note the ease of working with it, because the fastening technology is easy to master in record time. This great option for covering canopies, greenhouses, garages, light buildings and sloping roofs, and the cellular variety also allows you to create arched structures.
Did you know?Cellular polycarbonate was originally developed specifically as a material for the construction of greenhouses. The first sheet was released in 1976, and Polygal equipment was used for its production.
Correct fastening of carbonate sheets requires a competent approach to organizing a strong frame and the arrangement of the sheets of material themselves, as a result of which the coating can remain attractive appearance long years. 
In addition, properly selected materials will help protect polycarbonate from destruction (both external and internal). fasteners and sealing materials that prevent moisture from entering the cells.
It is moisture that causes molding of polycarbonate, its “sweating” and the spread of black mold inside. Of course, we are no longer talking about any attractive type of coating and, most likely, only replacing the yellowed and blackened material can change the situation.
The consequences of improperly fastening polycarbonate look something like this:
The entire process of attaching polycarbonate can be divided into several successive stages, each of which has its own characteristics. Particular care should be taken when cutting sheets, although other processes require high level vigilance. Let's take a closer look at each of them.
Before you start cutting polycarbonate sheets, you need to prepare the appropriate tool. High-speed a circular saw with carbide discs and undone small teeth, and for small cuts you can use a jigsaw or a stationery knife.
As for the process itself, you need to follow the following sequence of all actions.
Video: how to cut cellular polycarbonate First, clear the surface to place the polycarbonate slabs (there should be no stones or any other objects on the floor that could damage the material). The best solution to level the surface there will be sheets of chipboard and fiberboard.
Make markings on the panel itself, marking the cut points with a marker (if you have to deal with a large canvas, you can move along it using a board so as not to leave dents on the plastic). An even cut along the honeycombs does not require the use of a marker, because they themselves will be a good indication of the boundaries.
Before cutting directly, place boards under the panels (on both sides of the marker markings) and place another one on top (it is needed for the person to move when cutting). 
If you need to cut the canvas along a straight line, then a grinder is quite suitable for this task, otherwise you will need a jigsaw, and for fine adjustments, a stationery knife. After cutting, all remaining shavings and dust must be blown off with compressed air.
Important!When cutting, polycarbonate sheets should not be held in your hands, as strong vibration can distort the evenness of the cut or injure the worker. If possible, placing the panel on the floor, it is better to additionally secure it with a vice.
For this stage of the work you will only need an electric drill along with metal drill bits. The holes should be located between the stiffening ribs so as not to disrupt the normal drainage of condensate. It is advisable to drill polycarbonate sheets before direct fastening to prevent moisture from getting inside. 
To perform the task efficiently, you must:
If there is a large volume of work, it is worth taking regular breaks, which will allow you to promptly remove chips and cool the drill.
This stage will only be relevant if you have to deal with cellular panels. During transportation and storage of polycarbonate sheets, the manufacturer usually protects the end part with temporary tape, but it must be removed before sealing. 
The process itself is simple and involves fixing a continuous self-adhesive tape on the upper ends and perforated tape on the lower ones.
True, this method of sealing the end parts is suitable only for vertical and inclined installation of sheets, while arched structures will need to be covered with perforated tape at both ends. The lower ends of the panels cannot be made completely sealed.
Important!Regular tape is not suitable for sealing panels.
There are several ways to fix polycarbonate sheets, so each master can choose the most convenient option for himself. Let's look at some of them.
Thermal washer is one of the most common fastening elements when working with polycarbonate. It consists of several important details: plastic washer (for convenience it has a wide base), elastic sealing ring, plug. 
The self-tapping screw is usually not included in this set and will have to be purchased separately. With the help of such a clamp, you can gently but reliably press the sheet to the frame base and prevent moisture from entering the material, and in addition to this, you will also receive a beautiful decorative element.
There are three types of thermal washers:
Of course, the most reliable and durable option would be a steel element, but it does not have the necessary decorative properties, which is why consumers increasingly prefer polycarbonate products, which are only slightly inferior in strength to stainless steel.
Installation of sheets using thermal washers is carried out in the following sequence:
At the end of installation, the thermal washers are covered with protective caps (included in the kit) to protect the product from precipitation. When working, you should be careful only at the stage of drilling holes, and in the future all steps for installing thermal washers are very simple and easy.
Video: attaching polycarbonate to a metal profile using thermal washers
Did you know? Polycarbonate has excellent optical properties, due to which it has been used for a long time in the manufacture of lenses for glasses. Compared to glass, which is much thinner, this material ensures longer service life of the product.
Profile fastening involves the use of special fasteners, which are produced today in both detachable and permanent forms. The latter are more accessible in material terms and are available in different color variations, which allows you to choose the shade that best suits the chosen polycarbonate.
However, working with them is not as easy as with detachable models, especially if the length of the parts to be connected exceeds 3 meters. As an alternative solution, you can consider mounting using butt, corner or wall profiles, but in any case, polycarbonate sheets should extend into the profile no more than 20 mm. 
The process of installing polycarbonate using profiles is as follows:
This method of attaching polycarbonate is considered the most convenient, since the joining of the panels occurs immediately on the frame.
Important!When installing monolithic products, it is advisable to choose fasteners that come complete with rubber seals. If your design has complex shapes, then you will have to use only detachable profile fasteners.
Detachable profiles consist of two parts - the main one and the cover plug, and, in principle, are easy to install: first, the base is fixed in the places where they are installed, then polycarbonate sheets are laid, and the upper part of the profile is installed on top.
With all my positive qualities Polycarbonate material also has a rather significant disadvantage - with a sharp change in temperature, the sheets become deformed.
Of course, without taking into account this possibility finished design may undergo significant changes, as a result of which not only its appearance will be impaired, but also its hermetic properties (at sub-zero temperatures in winter, the panels may simply break).
Thermal changes of the specified material depend on the type and color of the polycarbonate sheets used:
And this is only if the temperature range is within +50°C. If the operating temperature range is within -40...+120°C, it is better to double these values.
Considering the possibility of thermal expansion of polycarbonate, when installing profiles in hot weather, you will have to place the slab close to the clamp of the joining profile, so that when the temperature drops and the polycarbonate product shrinks, there is room for condensate to drain.
Accordingly, at low temperatures the distance from the profile lock should be slightly larger. In order not to make mistakes in your calculations, you can use a special formula that will help determine the change in the length or width of the polycarbonate sheet: ∆L=L * ∆T * a, where
Thermal gaps must be left both when connecting panels in a plane, and in corner and ridge fastenings, where special connecting profiles are used.
In general, polycarbonate panels, or monolithic sheets, are a good solution if you need to equip a greenhouse or cover some outbuildings, but before you start work, be sure to study all the characteristics of the selected product and decide on the mounting.
Only by taking into account all the nuances can we guarantee trouble-free and long-term operation of polycarbonate.
Modern production of frame structures offers a huge selection of similar products. Any frames made of metal have some features that determine the specifics of attaching any materials to them, including polycarbonate sheets. To perform reliable fastening, it is necessary to fulfill all the requirements regulated by manufacturers of fasteners for this type of work.
The most widespread is the fastening of polycarbonate sheets using modern fasteners in the form of thermal washers. Such fasteners are specially designed for fastening polycarbonate panels to frames, as well as for mounting on H-profile structures. Ease of use and the almost complete absence of disadvantages characteristic of self-tapping screws make it possible to ensure a reliable and tight fit of the material at the attachment point.
The plastic cap in the form of a cap helps to reliably protect the fastener from precipitation and temperature changes. In addition, thermal washers are available in various colors, which allows for an attractive and aesthetic fastening. The standard diameter of the thermal washer is three centimeters with a length of seven millimeters.
Modern manufacturers produce three types of thermal washers. The main difference between fasteners
lies in the material used in production and dimensions. Fasteners can be represented by standard thermal washers and mini washers.
Dimensions and parameters of thermal washers
Self-tapping screws for fastening sheets
Thermal washers for sheet polycarbonate are a fastening kit consisting of a plastic washer with a leg and a seal or waterproofing gasket that ensures a tight and high-quality fastening. In addition, the fastener is equipped with a snap-on lid.
Standard sizes are:
Thermal washers can be galvanized or plastic. The main criterion for choosing fasteners is the correspondence of the height of the thermal washer leg with the thickness of the polycarbonate sheet. To this value it is necessary to add the thickness of the gasket, made of special rubber and located between the material and the fastener head.
The self-tapping screw is inserted into the hole of the thermal washer, and then the polycarbonate is attached to the metal frame. As a result of such actions, the leg of the fastening element receives support in the frame and prevents damage to the polycarbonate itself. However, during temperature fluctuations, the polycarbonate sheet does not lose the ability to move freely in the space between the holes.
At the final stage of installation, the thermal washers must be sealed by snapping the cover cap.
In addition to thermal washers, special connecting profiles can be used to attach polycarbonate.
Types of connections
Connecting profiles for polycarbonate are necessary to connect sheet panels to a frame structure. Mounting system includes split type universal profiles and one-piece or solid H-shaped type of profiles.
By means of connecting profiles, polycarbonate sheets with a thickness of 0.4 to 1.6 centimeters are installed on metal supporting structures. They are usually used to secure polycarbonate sheets to small structures with a short joint length.
The one-piece type of profiles is economical and is most in demand in the construction of greenhouse structures.
Work technology
Connecting profiles consist of two parts. The first part or “base” is attached using self-tapping screws to a metal frame structure. At the next stage, the connecting panels of polycarbonate sheets and the second part of the connecting profile – the “cover” – are mounted. This type of design is very reliable and convenient.
Connecting profiles of one-piece type are made of polycarbonate and match well in color with the main ones sheet panels. Feature fasteners of this type is to obtain a tight and durable connection of polycarbonate sheets in combination with low installation costs. The main disadvantage is the rather complicated installation.
Fastening scheme via connecting profile
The fastening process begins with installing the panels into the groove of a one-piece profile of the appropriate thickness. Then the profile must be fixed to the metal frame of the structure using thermal washers.
To fix polycarbonate sheets, it is allowed to use aluminum profiles, which make it possible to create a structure with excellent tightness. You should be aware that the cost of such fasteners is higher than the price of connecting profiles. They include grooves, covers and a lower part.
Aluminum profile represents the most complex and expensive polycarbonate fastening system. Ideal waterproofing allows the use of this type of fastening for the installation of load-bearing foundations such as roofs or walls.
To fasten polycarbonate sheets to metal structures using an aluminum profile, self-tapping screws, a tape measure, profiles, a rubber hammer and a screwdriver are used.
Installation begins with the installation of the lower profile, onto which polycarbonate sheets are mounted. Next, you need to install the top cover and secure it with self-tapping screws. The aluminum profile is equipped with grooves with a rubber seal. This design provides high-quality protection against condensation accumulation and leakage. Long service life without reducing quality characteristics makes it almost eternal.
Modern fasteners in the form of thermal washers are used for point fastening of many sheet materials. The specially designed “leg” of the thermal washer allows high-quality insulation of the self-tapping screw. The presence of a snap-on lid contributes to the high aesthetics of the fastening.
The main purpose of thermal washers of standard sizes is installation various designs based on polycarbonate sheets with a thickness of no more than four centimeters. Mini-washers are in demand during the installation of interior structures made using thin sheets of polycarbonate and other sheet-type plastics. Most often, such thermal washers are used in the design of exhibition stands and during the installation of retail equipment.
Polycarbonate connecting profiles allow you to install polycarbonate not only on metal structures, but also on a wood frame.
How to properly attach polycarbonate to a metal frame (video)
The monolithic version has a continuous 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 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 connected to each other by special stiffening ribs, the space between which is free.
This material is widely used in construction, utility and utility rooms and country houses, especially as a covering for greenhouse complexes.
Honeycomb polycarbonate elements along their length have ribs that provide their rigidity, so during installation they must always be positioned in such a way that the hollow channels inside them have an exit to the outside. This requirement is dictated by the need to remove condensate from them, which can form due to temperature differences.
When installing such plates as vertical glazing, the ribs providing rigidity are also placed vertically. When attached to a frame as a slope or arch, it is always necessary to orient them so that the internal hollow channels inside run 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 an 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 markings, which serves as protection until the moment complete installation, and is removed at the final stage.
When installing polycarbonate panels as an arched structure, you should take into account and never exceed the maximum bending radius for a particular type of material, indicated in its marking.
1. Sheet cutting
Polymer boards are supplied standard sheets, which, as a rule, always have larger dimensions than required, so one of the main operations with them is cutting them into pieces with the required dimensions. This operation will have to be performed both when constructing a greenhouse and when installing a polycarbonate roof with your own hands.
The operation itself of cutting optimal pieces from a solid panel is extremely simple, since the material is easy to cut. For this you can use different instruments for cutting, from a hand hacksaw to an electric grinder or jigsaw.
In the process of cutting polymer, regardless of the chosen tool, it is impossible to avoid the occurrence of vibrations of the material during its operation, which can negatively affect the quality of the cuts and lead to problems during the 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 vibrations, the material is securely fixed in advance.
In the case of a honeycomb structure, after cutting, the cavities in the resulting elements are cleared of chips, because if they remain clogged, the removal of condensate will be difficult and moisture will accumulate inside the plates, which is especially dangerous during frosts, since water frozen inside the panel can damage it.
2. Sealing the ends
Honeycomb plates require sealing of their ends. The one on top can be covered with regular tape, but to seal the bottom one, it is better to use a special tape with perforations to drain moisture condensing inside the sheet.
Fastening cellular polycarbonate
Carbonate slabs can be attached to structures made of almost any material; its type only affects the choice of elements for fastening. As a rule, these are self-tapping screws for wood or metal with a self-tapping tip, which are supplied 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 it fixes. This design not only protects the sheet structure from excessive deformation, but also reduces heat loss through direct contact with the self-tapping screw, which in this case acts as a conductor of cold through the polycarbonate.
Therefore, self-tapping screws with thermal washers are a universal fastener, regardless of the material of the load-bearing surface, which is sheathed with polymer panels.
When installing, it is advisable to insert self-tapping screws into pre-drilled holes in plastic, which must meet the following requirements:
Knowing the technology of fixing polycarbonate, you can easily and reliably cover almost any structure with it. 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 ones are used with panels with a thickness of 4 to 10 mm. The second are “Polyskrep” profiles, capable of connecting together plates from 6 to 16 mm in thickness. Removable profiles are assembled from a pair of elements: the lower one, which serves as the base, and the upper one - a cover with a lock.
Such polymer connecting profiles are necessary for assembling arched or pitched structures, but are also suitable for completely vertical surfaces. One clamp connects a pair of panels with a width of 50 to 105 cm, and it itself is fixed with self-tapping screws. When mating individual panels at an angle of 90 degrees, a corner joining profile is provided, and in the case of abutment to a wall, a special wall profile is provided.
The technology for fixing a removable profile involves several operations:
Often, when sheathing a greenhouse with cellular polycarbonate, the plates are attached overlapping one another, instead of using special joining profiles. This option is optimal and is possible only in the case of a small thickness of sheets, which does not exceed 6 mm, since due to their thinness they have increased flexibility, which is why 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 know that fastening polycarbonate sheets using the overlapping method can lead to the following consequences:
1. How and to what can carbonate be attached?
Monolithic carbonate has two methods of fastening, but both of them require a base in the form of a supporting frame that ensures reliable fixation of the slab:
2. Is it possible to attach sheets of overlap?
Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material that responds to temperature fluctuations by changing its dimensions. Therefore, in cold weather it contracts, and in hot weather it expands. 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 especially applies to 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, using them in combination with rigid fastening technology - overlapping - is impossible.
Temperature value
Polycarbonate is an unpretentious and fairly durable material and, in relation to the ambient temperature, can be used within the range from –40 to +120 degrees Celsius. However, the polymer on which it is made can both expand and contract under the influence of temperature, which is expressed in its expansion coefficient of 0.065 mm per one degree of temperature for each meter of sheet.
Therefore, to calculate the actual expansion, you need to calculate the maximum temperature difference per year and multiply it by 0.065 mm. For example, when installing in an average climate zone with temperatures from -40 to +50 degrees
Celsius gap should be about 6mm for each linear meter plastic. In the case of painting, the heating of the sheets increases by an average of 10 - 15 degrees, which means they will expand more, that is, by about 6.5 mm per meter of slab.
How to attach polycarbonate correctly - to a metal, wooden frame and to a greenhouse
Polymer- this is a general-purpose photopolymer raw material that appears to be thermoplastic and airy, as a result of which it is possible to increase its own area. The polymer will come out in sheets. In addition, this raw material is divided into 2 types - honeycomb and solid.
Simple honeycomb polymer, however strong due to the large-cellular figure. In addition, this raw material has excellent thermal insulation. For the purpose of glazing, for cladding walls, and also for roofing, which seems colorless, experts recommend using the cellular type, because it contains a high degree of light transmission.
Monolithic polymer type is the same as silicate glass, in which case it does not contain a vacuum in any way, and is used for what is simpler and therefore stronger. In addition, the fused polymer does not stand out in any way from ordinary glass in terms of light transmission.
Due to the properties of single polycarbonate, it is used in training institutions and gyms as a replacement glass. In addition, this type uses the fame of a number of substances for the purpose of various trading tricks and shopping centers in the property of showcases.
This raw material is also ideally suited for use in country houses such as greenhouses, sheds and other purposes.
Because there are ribs in polycarbonate, they are needed for the purpose of determining rigidity in the design. They are not always in the same amount, but in connection with use.
In cellular polycarbonates, the ribs are located according to the length of the sheet, and it is important to understand that the remote control must be laid out in a similar way, so that the channels that are located from the inside have an open output.
This process is required for this purpose, so that during the installation and formation of vertical glazing, the ribs are also in a vertical state.
If the structure is of a gable type, then the ribs must be located along the slopes. In addition, episodes occur if the ribs are located according to the arc; this kind of method is used only in arches.
After this, as soon as the sheets are inserted, you should remove the marked film, which is specially designed to protect against defects and scratches of the sheet. Since at present the sheets are formed with special protective layers.
Polycarbonate is delivered in finished sheets. The main part of laying polycarbonate is cutting.
In most cutting, polycarbonate is completely absent, but only in this case, if for the purpose of this operation there is the presence of the necessary devices:
Episodes occur if the inner tubes of polycarbonate get dirty, dusty, and also excess water. The filling of the ends is specialized in order to avoid these contaminations. Contaminants have a good chance of getting into the process, so you need to be more careful when performing this procedure.
The perforated strip does not allow dust and debris to get inside; in addition, this raw material does not in any way affect the production of condensate. Actually, this raw material is designed to be used for the purpose of insulation. It is important to understand that this procedure can be carried out only in cellular polycarbonates, and it is impossible to seal the upper ends.
There are quite a few methods for attaching polycarbonate, let’s look at them:
It must be secured with bolts, in front of the head of which there must be washers. It is preferable that the bolts and washers be made from a non-corrosive alloy.
Fastening polycarbonate with thermal washers
As previously stated, for the purpose of fastening polycarbonate, it is essential that the sheet holes have a diameter of several mm more than that of the thermal washer. There are many types of fastening, but experts recommend using multi-point.
The essence of this connection is that chewing gum is introduced into the thermal washer, which prevents the penetration of moisture, dust, and other blockages. This method is also good for the fact that due to the washers, which ones will increase and this will preserve the shape of the polycarbonate sheets
Fastening polycarbonate using metal profiles
The fastening method with the support of metal profiles is freely used. It is necessary to install polycarbonate sheets into the openings of metal profiles and fix them.
After this, just as always, the sheets were attached, the system should always be completely attached to the position for the purpose of what it is specialized for. This method is perfect if the panels are to be laid in a row of lines and joined together.
In order to provide point fastening, you should have self-tapping screws with thermal washers. Self-tapping screws and thermal washers form a very strong and reliable connection. The multi-point type of fastening is excellent for use when spraying roofs and canopies.
The holes should be a little stretchy in this case if the polycarbonate sheets are large. The holes must be sealed no more than 400 mm. The use of nails as self-tapping screws is prohibited. In addition, the screws cannot be overtightened.
In order to accurately combine panels, you should choose the fastening method wisely. In our period, there are many types of fastenings, but in order to achieve an accurate combination, it is necessary to select suitable ones.
The phases of single profiles must be similar in width, as well as the raw materials. As is generally known, the remote control can have a width from 500 to 1000 mm. To secure these profiles, self-tapping screws and thermal washers are required.
Detachable contour profiles are divided into a top element and a bottom element. The body element appears to be the base, and the top one assumes a cover that snaps into place. For this purpose, in order to fix the sheets with the support of detachable profiles, holes should be made, the diameter of which must be more self-tapping in the upper part, in which case it should be taken as the basis.
You need to attach the base to the skeleton with self-tapping screws. After this, you need to put the sheets on both edges and fix them, so as to maintain a gap of 5 mm.
There is also a single-angle special profile made of polycarbonate. Someone calculated for the purpose of the situation, if it is necessary to determine the remote control in a difficult way, but in front of the immediate house.
Such contour profiles can be either colorless or painted in different colors. In addition, the superiority of this substance seems to be in this case, that someone is able to keep the remote control.
A monolithic polymer is the same type as silicate glass, in which case it does not contain a vacuum in any way, and is selected for what is simpler and therefore stronger. In addition, the fused polymer does not stand out in any way from ordinary glass in terms of light transmission.
Due to the properties of single polycarbonate, it is used in training institutions, in gyms in the property of changing glass. In addition, this type uses the fame of a number of substances for the purpose of various trader tricks and shopping centers in the property of showcases.
At present, there are many types of skeletons, including wooden and metal ones.
Cellular polycarbonate and polycarbonate contour profiles can be cut easily and simply. For a higher quality finish, use high-speed circular saws with a stop, equipped with a blade with small, uncultivated teeth reinforced with hard alloys.
When cutting panels, the contour profiles must be thoroughly maintained to avoid pulsation. There may be beating band saw. After cutting, it is necessary to remove chips from the internal cavities of the panel.
How to attach polycarbonate to a metal and wooden frame correctly
Polycarbonate is a beautiful modern material. In private construction, cellular polycarbonate is usually used, and to create decorative partitions, indoor barriers, and advertising structures, designers choose both monolithic and honeycomb sheet. Fastening this material is not difficult; available tools are used for the work, and the fastening technology can be mastered in a short time.
Polycarbonate is used to cover light buildings, garages, sheds, greenhouses and sloping roofs. Cellular carbonate, unlike monolithic carbonate, can be bent, creating not only straight, but also arched structural elements. Since this material does not withstand snow pressure well, the roofs of buildings and structures must be sloped. This is especially important for areas that receive a lot of snow in winter. The slope of the slopes should ideally be such that the snow does not linger on the fragile plastic roof and slide to the ground.
How to attach polycarbonate
At making the right choice construction, strong frame, correct orientation of carbonate sheets and their sealing, this material will retain its beautiful appearance for many years. Properly secured sheets will not allow polycarbonate to deteriorate from the outside or inside; moisture will not accumulate inside the honeycombs and fastenings, which causes yellowing and black mold to appear.
Consequences of poor-quality installation of polycarbonate
To carry out work on fixing the panels, you need tools, main and auxiliary equipment. The choice depends on what frame is attached to and how the material is mounted, as well as on the complexity of the design.
To carry out the work you need:
To fasten the panels, thermal washers made of polycarbonate, washers made of stainless materials, polypropylene washers, ordinary bolts with nuts and various self-tapping screws are used.
Accessories for polycarbonate greenhouses
Thermal washer for polycarbonate
Thermal washers made of polycarbonate
Thermal washer is necessary for reliable fastening of polycarbonate to the frame and consists of three parts:
Thermal washer for mounting cellular polycarbonate
Due to its characteristics, the fastening of any polycarbonate must be pressed using a wide washer
The self-tapping screw is usually not included with the thermal washer; builders purchase it separately. The washer not only gently and reliably presses the sheet to the frame and does not allow moisture to enter the material, but also has a beautiful appearance and plays a decorative role.
Thermal washers made of polycarbonate
On a note! Thermal washers are made of transparent plastic - the same as sheet polycarbonate. Polycarbonate washers are available in a wide range of colors and can be matched to any commercially available polycarbonate. They are more durable when compared to polypropylene. The service life of polycarbonate thermal washers is 20 years.
Polypropylene washers
Polypropylene washers have been produced for about 10 years. They consist of a porous plastic O-ring and a colored polypropylene cap with a plug. Compared to polypropylene thermal washers, they have a number of disadvantages. There is no UV protection layer applied to the covers of these washers, so they quickly fade. After several years of service solar roof the material loses its strength.
Colors of polypropylene thermal washers
These washers are recommended for use on shaded roofs and indoors. These fasteners cost less than polycarbonate thermal washers, they have a short service life, but they are cheap. Such washers can be secured with screws 6 mm thick.
Stainless steel (steel, galvanized) washers
Steel and galvanized fastening washers are used to secure carbon sheets to large areas on a metal profile. They hold the sheet well and hardly wobble, which is especially important for areas with strong winds. These washers have the form of a concave plate, under which an umbrella gasket made of foamed polyurethane, plastic or thickened EMDP rubber is placed. This rubber remains elastic even at -15 degrees. Stainless steel washers are attached to self-tapping screws and bolts.
Metal thermal washers with gaskets
Reference! A washer made of stainless material, together with a rubber umbrella gasket, best ensures the tightness of the connection. The rubber adheres tightly to the surface of the sheet and completely prevents the penetration of moisture into the cells of the sheet.
If the structure is used in a dry room, under a canopy, then the sheets can be secured with self-tapping screws with an ordinary thin washer with the same thin rubber gasket. In some cases, you may not need to use washers at all. In the open air, a thick rubber gasket is placed under the wide washer.
A special profile is used to attach the sheets to each other and to the frame. It is made from the same material as polycarbonate sheets. Industry produces profiles for sheets standard thickness blades - 4,6,8,10, 16 mm.
Profiles for polycarbonate
Important! There should be a gap of 3 mm between the inner wall of the profile and the sheet inserted into it. It is designed to prevent polycarbonate, which expands in the summer heat, from warping and deforming the structure.
The profile can be detachable or non-detachable. The sheets are inserted into the grooves of the profile and secured there. The canvas can be fixed in a polycarbonate, plastic or aluminum profile. Profiles of different sections have different markings - H, HP, HCP, U, RP, UP, FP, SP, L.
Types of aluminum profiles for polycarbonate
Aluminum end profile
Important! It is necessary to use sealing and perforated tapes to seal the ends of the sheet, and after that the sheets are fixed inside the profile.
The panels attached to the grille can be sealed together with sealant. But such a connection strong winds will not be strong enough. You should select a high-quality sealant that retains strength and elasticity for several years.
Docking profiles for polycarbonate with snaps
Elements, rafters and purlins of metal frames must lie strictly in the same plane. This frame does not have any protrusions, so attaching the canvas to it will not be difficult. The distance between the rafters should be equal to the width of the polycarbonate sheets.
Fastening polycarbonate to a metal frame
The procedure for attaching cellular polycarbonate to a profile on a metal body will be as follows.
Step 1. Thermal insulating tape is laid on the surface of the metal beams of the structure.
Step 2. The profile is attached to the grille with self-tapping screws.
Step 3. The panels are installed on cells. An end profile should be placed on the end sheet. Top part Fixed by aligning and pressing from above without much effort. The latches fall into place and hold the panel securely.
Installation via connecting profile
Monolithic plastic fastening diagram
Step 4. Before installing the sheets, you need to remove the protective film from the bottom of the sheet and bend the edge of the top so that it does not interfere with drilling.
Step 5. The edges of the panels must be protected from water and dust. A sealing tape is glued to the upper (located above) edge of the canvas. Perforated tape is attached to the bottom edge. After this, the canvas is inserted inside the profile.
Perforated and sealing tapes
Interesting! Cellular polycarbonate panels are easily bent into an arch. The pressure inside the curved sheet makes it more rigid and durable. The radius of the resulting bend depends on the thickness of the polycarbonate.
How to move correctly on polycarbonate
Construction of a gable roof made of polycarbonate
Manufacturers coat sheets protective film. The side on which technical data and the company logo are applied is the outer side. As a rule, film with outside white and opaque. The front surface of the sheets is coated with a special compound that protects polycarbonate from ultraviolet radiation. On inner side The sheet has a transparent film pasted on it. the protection is removed after installation of the structure. It is impossible to leave the film on the canvases after installation, since the glue with which it is attached changes its properties not for the better and, if the film is removed later, it may leave marks.
Another option is to attach polycarbonate sheets to a metal frame using thermal washers
The procedure for attaching sheets to a wooden frame will be as follows.
Step 1. The panel is laid on the frame and, using an electric drill, holes are made for fasteners (washers) and screws (or bolts). The sheet should protrude 2.5-3 cm beyond the frame frame.
The seal is placed in a thermal washer
Step 2. The washers are attached to the frame with self-tapping screws using a screwdriver.
Thermal washer is applied to the mounting location
Step 3. Other panels are sequentially laid and secured.
Step 4. The sheets are attached in the same way at the ends and on the doors.
Step 5. The edges of the canvas are sealed using thermal tape, profile or other materials. If necessary, additional treatment of joints with sealant is done.
The holes must be drilled strictly perpendicularly. Experienced craftsmen On large sheets of polycarbonate, not round, but oval holes are drilled, elongated along the length of the sheet. The distance between the holes for thermal washers and other fasteners depends on the thickness of the material, the area of coverage and is on average 30-50 cm. The outermost hole should be at least 4 cm from the edge of the sheet.
An example of fastening profiled polycarbonate to wooden frame
The washer should completely cover the hole. For drilling, you can use a special cutter with a pilot drill. A hole is drilled with a drill, only after that a self-tapping screw is screwed through the hole of the thermal washer. A cap is placed on top, which does not allow water to pass through and creates a finished look.
Scheme of fastening cellular polycarbonate using a thermal washer
Wooden frames are built for greenhouses, gazebos, summer pavilions, light garages, sheds and outbuildings. The frame must be strong and stable, and all structural elements must be well fastened. The wood should be impregnated with a special compound that prevents the wood from rotting and being eaten by wood-boring beetles. Cellular polycarbonate is often attached to the wooden frame of greenhouses and outbuildings, less often - monolithic. Light metal frames are also made for such structures.
This method of fixation is mainly used for fastening monolithic polycarbonate sheets. The operating procedure is practically no different from the procedure for installing glass in a wooden frame.
Step 1. Polycarbonate sheets are cut in such a way that between them and wooden frame There was a 2mm gap on each side.
As in the case of drilling, you need to press the polycarbonate tightly to the surface, avoiding tension and vibration
Step 2. Sealant is applied to the grooves of the wooden frame.
Sealant for polycarbonate
Step 3. The canvas is placed in a frame and pressed lightly. Other fabrics are strengthened in the same way. The sheets are additionally fixed with wooden or plastic strips.
Profiled polycarbonate
Profiled monolithic polycarbonate is a relatively new material on the market. It is used in the construction of various structures, including commercial ones.
Proper fastening of polycarbonate using a profile and professional fasteners will help create not only a strong, reliable and beautiful structure. Do-it-yourself structures personal plot according to all the rules of the art of construction, they will delight the owners for many years.
How to attach polycarbonate - methods and step by step instructions!
Are you going to build your first greenhouse from cellular polycarbonate and have never dealt with this material before? Don’t want to make any unobvious mistakes when attaching the sheathing? Then this article is for you - here you will find detailed instructions on methods of installing polycarbonate on a metal frame. This material will also be useful for those who want to clarify some of the nuances and deepen their knowledge on this topic.
Let's start with the basics. Cellular polycarbonate is sheets of transparent polymer, between which there is one or more rows of rectangular or triangular cells. This material widely used in the creation of outbuildings in dachas and private households.
Cellular polycarbonate has the following advantages:
At the same time, the material has one feature that must always be taken into account - a high coefficient of linear expansion. This means that with warming, cellular polycarbonate will expand in length and width by several millimeters.
At first glance, these are very insignificant numbers, but if installed incorrectly, even such an increase in linear dimensions can lead to warping, swelling and cracks.
Properties of cellular polycarbonate Therefore, it is very important to know all the subtleties, features and nuances of installing cellular polycarbonate on a metal frame. There are two main ways to do this - with point fasteners or using a connecting profile.
Scheme of point fastening of polycarbonate to a metal frame The most popular method of installing polycarbonate on a metal frame is a point connection. It is carried out using self-tapping screws, screwed along the vertical and horizontal elements of the frame.
At the same time, “bare” self-tapping screws are used for the installation of polycarbonate to a limited extent (only in rooms with a more or less constant temperature). And for the point connection of SPK sheets with a metal frame in greenhouses, canopies and canopies, the following types of fasteners are used.
It is important to note that, regardless of the presence of a thermal washer and its type, the self-tapping screw must be designed for working on metal and have an appropriate thread with a small pitch. Only such products will firmly cut into a profile pipe or other type of metal frame and be well fixed in it.
The difference between self-tapping screws for wood and metal Advice! To facilitate the process of installing cellular polycarbonate on the frame, use metal screws with a drill at the end. With it, the screw will go in faster and with less effort.
Drill at the end of the self-tapping screw Now let’s study each of the fasteners presented in the table above in more detail and separately.
Roofing screw with washerEPDM- the simplest and cheap way connect the polycarbonate sheet and metal frame. Due to the specific nature of the application, it is often exposed to moisture, which is why it has a high-quality anti-corrosion coating. Hex head.
The roofing screw is supplied with an EPDM washer - a gasket made of atmospheric rubber with a metal cover. This washer is used to seal the hole where the self-tapping screw enters and to distribute the load.
Due to the relatively small diameter and thickness of the gasket, roofing screws are often overtightened when screwed into cellular polycarbonate. As a result, a dent forms at the fastening site, the seal of the hole is broken, and condensation, dirt and microorganisms get inside the cells.
Roofing screws with EPDM washer When installing using roofing screws, pre-drilling holes in cellular polycarbonate and metal frames is not necessary, but is desirable. To lay sheets of colored SPC, you can use screws with a painted head.
Self-tapping screw with rubber thermal washer– the first specialized fastener for cellular polycarbonate. It is the same roofing screw, but supplemented not with a thin and small gasket, but with a large and thick thermal washer made of silicone or atmospheric rubber.
When screwed into a sheet of SPK, the thermal washer is flattened and evenly distributes the load around the hole for the fastener. As a result, the risk of overtightening the screw and leaving a dent is greatly reduced.
Self-tapping screws with rubber thermal washer – further development ideas for fasteners specialized for working with cellular polycarbonate. The thermal washer itself is a cap with a cylindrical leg.
The latter enters a hole pre-drilled in cellular polycarbonate and is adjacent to the surface of the frame. A self-tapping screw is inserted into the leg and wrapped in metal, while the head of the thermal washer presses the SPK sheet to the frame at the fastening point.
The length of the leg should be equal to the thickness of the cellular polycarbonate. To ensure the tightness of the connection, an O-ring is placed under the thermal washer, and the self-tapping screw is closed with a protective cap on top.
Metal self-tapping screw and thermal washer with leg Thanks to this design, the fastener does not cut directly into the material, and if the installation technology is followed, it is almost impossible to overtighten the screw and leave a dent. The diameter of the hole in the SPK sheet should be 2-3 mm larger than the outer diameter of the thermal washer leg, so that during thermal expansion of the material the fastening point does not deform. A high-quality thermal washer is made of polycarbonate so that its coefficient of linear expansion matches that of the lining of a greenhouse or canopy.
Important! When purchasing thermal washers, be sure to pay attention to the length of the leg and the color of the cap, which should match the thickness of the polycarbonate sheet you are using and its color.
Thermal washer yellow color
Thermal washer dimensions There is also another type of fastener - universal thermal washers. They are distinguished by the absence of a fixing leg. On the one hand, this deteriorates the quality of the fastener, on the other hand, there is no need to select a thermal washer with the required leg length.
Self-tapping screws for thermal washers can have either a hexagonal head, like roofing ones, or a round one, designed for a straight or Phillips screwdriver. Their connection reliability is the same, but at the same time it is more convenient to work with a hex head - at high speeds of the screwdriver there is less risk of the bit slipping off the fastener and damaging the surface of the polycarbonate sheet.
The diameter of the screws used should be from 4.8 to 8 mm, the length depending on the thickness of the polycarbonate sheet and the frame element. Let's give an example: when building greenhouses, a 4 mm thick SPK and a profiled galvanized pipe with a cross section of 20x20 and a thickness of 1 mm are most often used. In this case, roofing screws of 4.8x19 mm are used as fasteners, and when connecting two sheets of polycarbonate with an overlap - 4.8x25 mm.
The main tool you will need for point mounting of polycarbonate on a metal frame is cordless screwdriver with a set of nozzles and drills. It is not recommended to use a powerful drill instead - its power is excessive for such work, and therefore overtightening of the screws, as well as slipping and damage to the attachments will be regular. In addition, the drill is too heavy and inconvenient for installing polycarbonate.
Cordless screwdriver It was already mentioned above that, in addition to attachments for self-tapping screws, you will need metal drills for a screwdriver. To create holes for thermal washers in polycarbonate, use products with a diameter 2-3 mm larger than that of the fixing leg. If you plan to work with a frame with a wall thickness of more than 1.5-2 mm, then it is advisable to stock up on drills for creating preliminary holes in the metal - this way you can significantly make your work easier during the direct installation of the SPC. The diameter should be slightly smaller than that of self-tapping screws.
Advice! Thin sheets of cellular polycarbonate tend to vibrate when drilled, so before doing this it is better to fix them with clamps.
As for the rest of the tools, you will need:
The process must begin by marking the fastening points. Depending on the type of frame, the weight of the skin and the expected loads, the distance between the points should be from 25 to 70 cm. Marking is done both on metal and on polycarbonate (using a marker).
Step 1. Remove the packaging film from the edge of the cellular polycarbonate by 5-10 cm. If you want to create a thermal gap at the fastening points, drill holes in them 2-3 mm larger than the diameter of the screw. The holes should be no less than 3.5-4 cm from the edge of the sheet.
Step 2. Place the sheet on the frame with the side with the stabilizing coating facing out. If polycarbonate is laid from the edge of a greenhouse or other building, make sure that the “cornice” is not more than 5-10 cm, otherwise the material may sag.
Step 3. If two sheets are connected on one arch or other frame element, you can overlap them, as shown in the images below. However, polycarbonate manufacturers do not recommend such a connection, considering it unreliable and not tight enough - here it is worth using a connecting profile.
Step 4. Attach the end of the self-tapping screw to the polycarbonate, and if a preliminary hole with a thermal gap was made, then directly to the metal.
Step 5. Turn on the screwdriver and start screwing the screw perpendicular to the sheet, at low speeds and with little effort. As soon as the screw goes through the polycarbonate and metal and goes deeper, stop the process.
Step 6. Using short “jerks” of the screwdriver, tighten the self-tapping screw to the end. Be careful not to overtighten the fasteners.
How to properly attach polycarbonate to a metal frame Step 7 Check for any defects or damage. If a small dent has formed, turn the screwdriver in reverse and partially unscrew the screw.
Step 8 Repeat steps four through seven for all other attachment points.
If you do not correct the situation with the overtightened self-tapping screw immediately, then in a couple of years the polycarbonate at the attachment point will crack and turn yellow. In addition, due to a violation of the tightness between the washer and the sheet, moisture, dirt and microorganisms will penetrate inside.
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