FAQ - Plastic Solutions

Your Frequently Asked Questions.

Answered by our in-house plastic expert! 

I plan to put a lean-to on my house; what materials should I use?

Our most popular options are 10mm twin-wall and 16mm triple-wall clear polycarbonate. For this system, you will require Capex joining profiles, side F sections, front RSC U profiles, fixing buttons, silicone and flashing, all of which you will see in the roof example. Also, you can advise what the wall's surface is like, as this will affect which flashing can be used and whether or not you have to pre-prepare the surface.

Will my roofing go yellow after a year or two?  

If you use our twin wall/triple wall clear polycarbonate sheets, we offer a 10-year guarantee of non-discolouration/yellowing: if installed correctly. These sheets are single-sided, UV-protected sheets, so it is paramount that the UV-coated side is installed facing the sky; the sheets will be clearly labelled “UV side”.

Do you have a product I can use to replace the panels in my greenhouse?

We have several options available; this is dependent on:

• your budget
• your required panel size
• whether or not you want it completely clear
• if you would be happy with a twin wall/structured sheet option. 

The main options are clear solid UV polycarbonate or our twin wall clear polycarbonate.

Can you cut the sheets to size?

We can offer a full cut-to-size service on most products but are limited to straight cuts/90° degree angles.

Will my roof smash like glass if something falls onto it?  

Regarding your roof strength: polycarbonate is considered virtually unbreakable regarding impact resistance and is around 200 – 250 times stronger than regular safety glass.

Is the material eco-friendly?

Due to its intrinsic qualities, polycarbonate is a sustainable material which has a minimal impact on the environment and is fully recyclable at the end of its use.

Can I cut the material to size myself?

Yes, you can cut the polycarbonate sheets to size yourself. We do, however, recommend using the correct and safe method to do so. Polycarbonate sheets can be cut with either a circular saw or a jigsaw. A circular saw is the best tool to use for cutting larger polycarbonate lengths. Thanks to the properties of this material, polycarbonate won't crack or splinter around the cut.   

Can I put a drill hole into the material?  

Yes, you can drill holes into polycarbonate sheets. When drilling polycarbonate, it is important that the sheet is well supported. Place the sheet on a flat surface that supports it well and which the drill can run into, for example, a wood board. You can drill polycarbonate with a normal steel drill or an HSS drill.

How much of an angle do I need to have on my lean-to?

When Installing a lean-to, keep a minimum pitch of 5 degrees so that the rainwater runs off towards the gutter preventing moisture from collecting on your roof. 

Have you any tips or tricks on how to use the Button fixings?

• Use a sharp steel bit instead of a wood one.
• Drill at least 40mm away from the edge.
• Drill between the ribs.
• Do not over-tighten the screw fixing and squash the sheets – as a guide, and the button should not touch the sheet.
• An 18mm drill bit will allow the sheet to move due to natural expansion and contraction.
• Use to EasyFix buttons into rafters.
• Use some silicone sealant to help seal the button fixing and stop leakage

Is the multiwall sheet UV on both sides?

No, it is only UV on one side of the sheet. This is the side that should be facing towards the sky when installing.

Which side of the Polycarbonate sheet is UV?

The UV side of the polycarbonate sheet is always under the side covered in the branded film. This side should be facing the sky as it will be protected from UV rays, which will protect it from discolouration.

Do I need to seal the ends of the multiwall sheet?

You don’t absolutely have to if you don’t want, but it is highly recommended to finish sheet ends with U-profiles or aluminium tape to prevent dust and debris from entering the multi-wall channels.

Can I walk on Polycarbonate roofing?

Polycarbonate roof sheets are not designed to support the weight of a person, so you should avoid walking on them. If you do need to succeed with the roof sheets, use crawl boards between the rafters or step ladders as a safe means to doing so.

What can I use to clean my roof?

Make up a solution of lukewarm water and ordinary household cleaner or mild soap and use this to wash the sheet. A sponge or soft cloth should then be used to gently remove dirt and grime.

Warning: 

- Do not scrub the sheet with brushes or sharp implements.

- Do not use squeegees.

- Avoid solvents other than those listed or any abrasive cleaners.

- Avoid cleaners of a highly alkaline composition.