We choose polycarbonate. Which polycarbonate is better for a greenhouse: advice from experienced gardeners. UV protection

Representing a modern high-strength building material with many advantages, polycarbonate is in ever-increasing demand. It is used for the construction of gazebos, sheds of various forms, greenhouses and greenhouses.

When choosing polycarbonate for greenhouses, which one is better determined depending on the type of material, its thickness, the manufacturing company is also taken into account - having many positive feedback and a good reputation are more likely to inspire confidence in high quality polycarbonate.

The recommendations given in the article for choosing the type of polycarbonate when building a greenhouse are simple and will allow you to understand the principle of choosing a material. An example of the choice of polycarbonate is the story of Igor E. from Yaroslavl, who set out to ensure the possibility of growing plants in an earlier period.

As a result, a 3x5 m greenhouse was built, in which the most different plants: cucumbers, tomatoes, eggplants, greens, starting active development in more early dates and surprising with their productivity.

Since it is the parameters of polycarbonate that should be considered the main indicators of the possibility for its use in the construction of a greenhouse, it is necessary to study its characteristics. For all varieties of this material, the following qualities should be considered common:

• strength to mechanical influences in comparison with glass and even more so with plastic wrap polycarbonate is much higher;
• high rate of light penetration;
• protection from the negative effects of ultraviolet rays;
• practically does not burn;
• does not corrode;
• good ones thermal insulation properties, which is important when building greenhouses in regions with a cool climate.

Durability and moisture resistance should also be considered positive qualities the material in question. The ease of processing and installation of polycarbonate parts is ensured by its plasticity, and its low weight allows you to create large-sized greenhouses.

Important! In addition to the many qualities that are necessary to create greenhouses and which this material possesses, polycarbonate of all kinds has aesthetics.

This is necessary so that the constructed greenhouse looks harmonious, combines with other buildings on the site and at the same time ensures the maintenance optimal conditions for the growth and development of plants.

Varieties of polycarbonate

To understand how to choose polycarbonate for building a greenhouse, you need to study its varieties and their qualities. Today there are two types polymer material- cellular and monolithic.

Monolithic option

Outwardly resembling glass, monolithic polycarbonate has increased resistance to mechanical stress, which is important in case of heavy snowfall in winter period. A monolithic variety of polymer is offered for sale in the form of sheets of a standard size:

• sheet width - 2.05 m;
• its length is 3.05 m.

There are many options for the thickness of monolithic polycarbonate sheets (2-12 mm), the recommended thickness of polycarbonate for greenhouses is 6 mm.

profile view

Referring to a variety of monolithic polycarbonate, a profiled variety is most often used as a load-bearing part of structures.

There are a large number of colors and shades of this type of polymer, it perfectly withstands mechanical loads, has increased sound insulation (during rain, the sound of drops is not even heard), however, its high cost and the need to use special thermal washers that ensure the stability of the structure during temperature and humidity changes can be considered disadvantages of the considered variety of polycarbonate.

Cellular polycarbonate

The difference with the monolithic version of the material is the use of several sheets of polycarbonate, which are fastened together with stiffeners. This makes it possible to reduce heat loss in the finished structure, which is achieved by the presence of an air gap between the sheets.

The dimensions of cellular polycarbonate sheets are also standard - 2.1 m x 6.12 m. The thickness of cellular polycarbonate sheets can vary - from 4 to 32 mm, depending on the distance between the sheets.

For the construction of arched greenhouses, when it is required to bend a sheet in a certain way, it is recommended to use cellular polycarbonate smaller thickness - this allows you to bend sheets to significant radii without the risk of breakage.

Cellular polycarbonate also differs in such indicators as the angle of installation of the ribs, the number of soldered sheets, as well as in the typical and constructive structure. There are 5 main types of them on sale: 2R, 3R, 3RX, 5Rx, 6RX.

Important! Since all types of modern polycarbonate have a high degree external attractiveness, they have proven themselves in the construction of greenhouses, when choosing its type, it is necessary to pay attention to the characteristics of the material and the features of the future structure.

For example, cellular polycarbonate, in which honeycombs are filled with airgel, may be suitable to ensure a minimum temperature difference. High impact resistance and a degree of thermal insulation, even at a high cost of the material, constantly attract the attention of buyers to this type of polycarbonate.

Colors and UV protection

Today, there are many colors of the polymer in question on sale. All of them are attractive, allow you to give the greenhouse the most aesthetic appearance.

However, when choosing a shade of polycarbonate, one should first of all evaluate what its impact on the development and growth of plants will be. Too much dark tones may not miss required quantity light for plant growth, and excessively light do not provide the creation and maintenance of the desired temperature regime.

The main indicator in assessing the color of the material should be called protection from ultraviolet radiation. Indeed, in the absence of a special coating, polymer sheets quickly lose their qualities and become brittle, their degree of transparency decreases. Manufacturers use several methods for UV protection:

• volumetric protection, which is introduced into the raw material at the stage of polymer production. This method is the least effective, the service life of polycarbonate without loss of its qualities is 5-8 years;
• special films that are applied to the finished product and perfectly protect against destructive effects sun rays- longer service life: 15-18 years;
• the combination of a bulk filler and a double layer of UV protection is considered the most effective - with its use, the material retains its qualities for 25-30 years.

To confirm the presence of a certain type of protection in the material, you should require the relevant quality certificates from the seller and pay attention to the labeling.

Important! When choosing a color, it is necessary to take into account the degree of light transmission, which is expressed as a percentage and depends on the thickness of the sheets, the shade of the material. The highest light transmission has transparent polymer(90%), followed by yellow and green. The least translucent are bronze dark (17%) and red (%).

bending radius

To build a greenhouse with a curved roof (arched type), you must first pay attention to such an indicator as the radius of the bend.

With small roof bends, almost any type of polymer can be used, however, with a significant curvature of the sheet that is the roof, damage to the upper protective layer can occur, which will reduce the life of the material with loss of its qualities.

The bending radius can range from 0.6 m with a significant sheet thickness to 2.8 m with a small thickness indicator.

Conclusion: how to choose polycarbonate for a greenhouse

Since it can be difficult to analyze all the characteristics of all varieties of polycarbonate before building a structure such as a greenhouse, the following are the most important properties, which must be taken into account when building this structure:

• light transmission - transparent polycarbonate has the highest light transmission rate, which is recommended for use in the construction of greenhouses;
• thickness - excessive thickness scatters a significant amount of light, so thick sheets of polymer should not be used. Thin options are not able to withstand prolonged mechanical and thermal loads. The optimal indicator of thickness should be considered 4, 6 and 8 mm;
• since when building a greenhouse, its functionality is primarily taken into account, the best choice many experts consider cellular polycarbonate, which has a high degree of resistance to mechanical and temperature changes, changes in humidity.

The video will help when choosing a polycarbonate option and clearly demonstrate the features of each type of material:

4.6 or 8 mm - which polycarbonate is better?

The thickness of cellular polycarbonate for the greenhouse is selected so that the plants do not freeze, and its use is economically viable. It is not profitable to allocate large amounts of money for heating in winter, it is better to immediately take a winter greenhouse. It is foolish to shell out a tidy sum for a winter greenhouse that will work only in summer and late spring. A greenhouse must first of all be profitable!

On the Internet, it is believed that it is necessary to choose polycarbonate for a greenhouse based on its strength. Like, the “four” will break under the weight of snow. But this applies only to low-quality polycarbonate. If you are not sure about the quality of polycarbonate, then, of course, play it safe and buy it thicker.

If you buy a normal polycarbonate (or a greenhouse with it) from the manufacturer, with all the certificates, then forget about the selection of thickness for strength. Choose a polycarbonate thickness that is cost-effective and the best way meeting the needs of your plants.

Needed in a greenhouse balance heating, heat storage and cooling processes. Correct selection the thickness of polycarbonate is one of the main components of ensuring this balance. If you choose the wrong thickness, the greenhouse will catastrophically overheat during the day, and unacceptably cool at night. Therefore, without heat engineering calculations anywhere! Further information in the article is presented only in general terms.

The thickness of the polycarbonate for the greenhouse is 4, 6 and 8 mm

Usually, polycarbonate with a thickness of 4, 6 or 8 mm is used for the construction of greenhouses. Other thicknesses are used more rarely and in special cases.

Keep in mind that each "four", "six", and "eight" has economy class twins, which may differ in performance.

4 mm

In greenhouses under polycarbonate 4 mm, the shortest season. The growing period is limited late spring and summer. It will not protect your plants from frost.

Our greenhouse 3x4 m made of polycarbonate 4 mm thick

But it is the most transparent polycarbonate. Under it, the most light-loving plants will feel good.

Such a greenhouse is well suited for growing early vegetables. But it should not be used for forcing seedlings.

If you do not plan to plant anything in the greenhouse during the cold season, this option is ideal for you. There is no need to buy models with more expensive and worse light-transmitting sheets.

Do not use the "four" for a greenhouse heated in winter. It practically does not protect from the cold.

Remember that when choosing polycarbonate of this thickness, you must be especially careful about its quality. The four, which internal partitions thinner than expected, will quickly break under the weight of snow or the force of the wind. Polycarbonate with low-quality UV protection will soon melt in the rain or the sun. The thinner the polycarbonate, the more carefully we check the documents.

It would also be useful to measure the width of the polycarbonate. Is it even a four? Often manufacturers give out 3.8 mm, 3.6 mm or 3.5 mm for 4 mm. Polycarbonate of this thickness, unlike 4 mm, is not always suitable for arched greenhouses, and is often only suitable for vertical glazing. Due to the savings in raw materials, it costs less than the exact four. Some manufacturers of greenhouses complete them with such polycarbonate.

Before buying polycarbonate or greenhouse, check the declared thickness of polycarbonate with a caliper

6 mm

In a greenhouse under 6 mm polycarbonate, plants feel great in early spring . They are not afraid of frost.

Our greenhouse 3x6 m made of polycarbonate 6 mm thick

It is quite possible to grow seedlings in it.

The season in such a greenhouse stretches until the very late autumn . Temperature fluctuations inherent in this season do not affect the plants in any way. With sharp cold snaps, polycarbonate also copes perfectly. In a greenhouse, it is always at least 5 ° C warmer than in open space.

The harvest season in a greenhouse under 6 mm polycarbonate is extended by several months.

Our greenhouse 6x34 m made of polycarbonate 6 mm thick

As well as the “four”, the “six” is not suitable for a greenhouse heated in winter. It will not be able to keep the desired temperature in winter.

Choose 6 mm polycarbonate if you plan to use the greenhouse from spring to autumn, excluding winter.

Sometimes for growing from early spring to late autumn, "four" is preferable to avoid overheating. It depends on the size of your greenhouse.

4 or 6 mm?

The choice of polycarbonate thickness of 4 mm or 6 mm also depends on greenhouse dimensions. During daylight hours, it accumulates heat. For example, let's take a greenhouse 3 meters wide and 8 meters long with polycarbonate 6 mm thick. It keeps warm just like a greenhouse 3 meters wide and 4 meters long with 4 mm polycarbonate.

The right balance of heating, heat storage and cooling processes is important. If these processes are unbalanced, you get a bad greenhouse - in hot weather, the temperature in it is above 40 ° C, and at night it drops below the permissible minimum. Therefore, ask the manufacturer of greenhouses what thickness of polycarbonate 4 mm or 6 mm is desirable to take for a greenhouse of your size.

8 mm

Unlike the previous ones, this option is suitable for you if you are going to heat the greenhouse in winter. Year-round cultivation is possible only from a polycarbonate thickness of 8 mm.

Our greenhouse 4x12m made of 8mm thick polycarbonate

The winter greenhouse has its own characteristics. Outside - frost and snow, and inside there is intense heating. To keep heat inside the greenhouse, polycarbonate must have high thermal insulation properties. This is exactly what applies to the "eight"

"Eight" keeps heat in the same way as a double-glazed window.

In severe frosts in such a greenhouse will be quite warm. If you are building an industrial greenhouse that should bear fruit all year round - choose to cover exactly the eight. This way you will significantly reduce heating costs.

Even with such a thickness, polycarbonate transmits sunlight well.

In general, for a year-round greenhouse - the thicker the polycarbonate, the better and more profitable. Therefore, for industrial greenhouses sheets with a thickness of 10 to 16 mm are used with might and main.

Do not try to cling a heavy "eight" to a weak frame, for example, from an omega profile. After a couple of months, both the frame and polycarbonate will break.

Conclusion: you are going to heat the greenhouse in winter - choose polycarbonate with a thickness of 8 mm or more. If “no” (the greenhouse will be operated from early spring to late autumn), take polycarbonate 4 or 6 mm thick. To choose the right 4 mm or 6 mm, order heat engineering calculations from the manufacturer for the greenhouse of your size.

Big harvest to you!

The active development of technology today allows you to create unique Construction Materials, significantly exceeding their predecessors in terms of service life, ease of installation and quality characteristics. One of these is polycarbonate.

Due to its practicality, strength and external aesthetics, polycarbonate is successfully used not only in agriculture and construction, but also in the field of outdoor advertising. The impact resistance of this material exceeds that of glass by more than a hundred times.

Polycarbonate is born by polycondensation of carbonic acid chloride and definelopropane.

Types of polycarbonate

Cellular polycarbonate

It is the most common type of polycarbonate used in the construction industry at the moment. Due to the low specific gravity of cellular polycarbonate, structures made of it are light and airy. This material has high ductility and strength. A large number of voids reduces the weight of the sheet, and, consequently, its cost.

Actively used:

• in industrial construction (production of body parts of equipment);
• in urban construction (“glazing” of stops, telephone booths, roofs; creation of arched structures);
• in agriculture (“glazing” of greenhouses, construction of agro-industrial facilities and complexes)
• in the field of advertising (light boxes, scoreboards, visors, three-dimensional letters);
• when creating interior design (balconies, dropped ceilings, winter gardens, partitions).

Key benefits of cellular polycarbonate

1. Fire resistance (when exposed to high temperatures the material begins to melt, but the flame does not spread).
2. Ease of installation (all panels are adapted for easy and hassle-free installation using "ordinary" tools: drills, saws, screwdrivers).
3. Light transmission.
4. Excellent insulating properties.
5. Extreme lightness.
6. Resistant to weather “whims” (due to a special outer layer, the panel is protected from wear and yellowing).

The warranty period of operation of the structure made of honeycomb material is ten years. In practice, it can last even thirty - it all depends on how competently the choice of polycarbonate was made.

Monolithic polycarbonate

Due to its "decent" cost, for the construction horizontal structures used much less frequently than cell phones. True, its strength characteristics are much higher.

A sheet of monolithic polycarbonate is a solid transparent plate. Its thickness, as a rule, is from 2 to 12 millimeters.

The material has found its application in:

• production of outdoor advertising (pillars, signs)
• production of industrial greenhouses and fences in agriculture;
• construction of gyms, stadiums;
• the financial sector.

Warranty period of operation - 10 years.

Of course, all of the above characteristics and advantages will be inherent in exclusively high-quality, certified products. Therefore, it is very important for an ordinary buyer to know how to choose the right polycarbonate.

Cellular polycarbonate - which one to choose and what to look for?

If you have a desire to create a translucent structure "within" your private estates, then your optimal choice- This is cellular polycarbonate.

Polycarbonate thickness

The first thing you should decide on in the process of searching - optimum thickness polycarbonate sheet. It is determined taking into account such factors as snow and wind load on the structure, bending radius, crate step.

Cellular polycarbonate of minimum thickness cannot be recommended for outdoor structures. Although the misconception that "thin material - significant savings" continues to overcome the minds of the townsfolk. Take a sensible look at the question: what kind of savings is it if sheets of smaller thickness require a more frequent step of the crate with considerable additional costs for the profile. But going to the other extreme, choosing the thickest samples is also wrong. Each design - individual calculation.

Compliance with weight standards

Before choosing polycarbonate, it would not be superfluous to make sure that the sheets offered to you meet international weight standards. Feel free to be corrosive - it's in your best interest.

One square meter of a sheet with a thickness of 4 millimeters should weigh 800 grams, 6 millimeters - 1.3 kilograms, 8 millimeters - 1.5 kilograms, 10 millimeters - 1.7 kilograms, etc. Cellular polycarbonate will withstand the loads declared by the manufacturer only if these figures are actually met.

A number of manufacturers, pursuing the goal of reducing the cost of production, reduce the weight square meter material. Are there any consequences for such "savings"? Undoubtedly. With a decrease in weight by 10 percent or more, an “automatic” proportional thinning of the horizontal and vertical walls of the sheet occurs. And this entails a significant deterioration bearing characteristics polycarbonate.

In fairness, it should be noted that in some cases, for some types of construction, “lightweight” sheets can be used quite successfully, but, you see, the buyer has the right to know that this is “light”. Civilized manufacturers, in accordance with the policy of the company, “mark” such samples in a way. It could be:

• the word light (CarboglassLight, Polyligh);
• letter in the name (Makrolon B-line);
• slightly different trade name.

The guarantee for "lightweight" sheets, as a rule, is no more than five years.

Plate color

Which cellular polycarbonate is better - blue, turquoise, milky, bronze, transparent, green? I would like to answer - the one that will suit your taste. But it's not. It is very important to consider the purpose of the design.

A blue, turquoise, green coating can very successfully shade the pool area, but it will be an extremely unsuccessful solution, for example, for a retail outlet, since it will change the color of all objects under it beyond recognition.

There are many similar examples, so if you doubt the correctness of your judgments, it will not be superfluous to consult about the optimal color solution at a professional.

Trademark

The quality of the material directly depends on who and where it was produced. This is an axiom. The external similarity of all products on the market is just an illusion; each manufacturing company is characterized by its own "chips" and subtleties of the organization of the production process.

Polycarbonate from leading companies is necessarily “provided” with a layer of UV protection applied by co-extrusion. Such a layer protects the material itself, as well as what is under it from hard radiation.

Manufacturers who value their reputation in the manufacture of sheets take into account many technological nuances. One of them is not to exceed established by the norms quantities of secondary raw materials. The material comes from Europe and Israel will definitely serve you for many years without causing problems and inconvenience. What you can’t say for sure about a Chinese fake is that with such products you will simply lose money and time.

Selecting a material supplier

The answer to the question of how to choose cellular polycarbonate cannot be considered sufficiently complete without the “calculation” algorithm of a conscientious supplier. Therefore, we bring to your attention the following criteria for "screening out":

1. An experienced, even salesman always follows the principle individual approach. There are a lot of options for polycarbonate structures - you can’t row everything one size fits all.
2. If the supplier actively claims that there is no difference, except for the price, between the brands, feel free to run away from this outlet - with a high degree of probability it can be assumed that here they will try to “slip” you a not very high-quality product;
3. Also, do not believe the arguments to buy material of greater or lesser thickness than what an independent professional advised you - they may be motivated by attempts to “push” samples that are stale in the warehouse.
4. A decent supplier, in addition to the shown honesty and professionalism, will definitely offer you to purchase the components necessary for your polycarbonate structure - profiles, thermal washers, end tape. He's not afraid to push you away additional costs- after all, this "inventory" for quality installation designs are really needed.

An honest seller will always tell you which polycarbonate is better and, upon request, provide documentation confirming the characteristics and quality of the material.

Polycarbonate has long been the leading material for the construction of greenhouses. Many gardeners do not even consider alternatives in the form of film and glass. Nevertheless, difficulties with the choice arise. Products are produced in a wide variety. The buyer will have to focus not only on the cost, but also on the parameters suitable for their needs.

Pros and cons of polycarbonate in the manufacture of greenhouses

Popularity polycarbonate is explained by its characteristics:

Obtained from optimal properties. Plants will be able to take light, the necessary heat, they will not overheat and will not overcool. The design is quite simple to assemble yourself. Shape change heat treatment– the risk of fire is minimal, since ignition occurs only at 120C. The sheet is difficult to break, even if successful, it will not shatter into sharp fragments. Such a greenhouse can be left for the winter without fear of cracks, used as an additional storage place for country accessories.

The disadvantages include:

• ease of damage by abrasive means;
• deformation in extreme heat;
• destruction of the structure from high doses of ultraviolet radiation.

All cons are corrected right place installation of a greenhouse, gentle care, application of special films on the surface.

Polycarbonate classification

The material is produced in two types:

Monolithic

Solid sheets different sizes and thickness.

The monolithic version resembles cloudy glass. It has a noticeable weight, aesthetic appearance, is very durable, but it also costs more. Such polycarbonate is easy to mount without additional frames. Meanwhile, monolithic sheets practically do not keep warm. In such a greenhouse, sensitive plants will freeze.

Cellular

Two or three sheets connected by a layer of numerous ribs. The structure resembles a honeycomb, hence the name.

Cells of honeycomb type better scatter light, evenly distribute the temperature inside the building. Seedlings will not get burned, will not suffer from overheating or hypothermia. This material is much cheaper. In addition, cellular polycarbonate is more flexible. It is attached to the frame even in the form of arches. Lightweight series with thin ribs are produced.

For the arrangement of greenhouses and hotbeds, it is mainly cellular polycarbonate that is taken.

What kind of polycarbonate do you choose?

CellularMonolithic

Key parameters of polycarbonate

Both types of material are of different quality. Only a combination of certain parameters can guarantee long term finished product service.

Feedstock

High-quality polycarbonate is produced according to the Bayer patent. Its formulation uses special plastic granules increased strength. Such raw materials must be marked "Premium".

There are also sheets made of recycled plastic. They are often labeled with an "Eco" badge. The service life of such options rarely exceeds 5 years. But the cost of the "secondary" is much lower.

Cell Density and Shape

Two inseparable parameters. Honeycombs in the form of a triangle or hexagon give the most high density. Such a layer is difficult to demolish even with a strong gust of wind, but it is less flexible and delays more Sveta.

Square cells show average plasticity and weak throughput in terms of light.

Rectangular honeycombs are very popular. Such sheets are quite flexible and are cheaper than others. At the same time, they do not have the highest breakage resistance.

The density also depends on the mass of the ribs. It is optimal to choose species with an indicator of at least 800g / sq.m.

Sheet size

Monolithic polycarbonate is made in the form of sheets of 3.05 m by 2.05 m. For cellular material, a width of 2.1 m is typical with a length of 6 or 12 m.

The dimensions shown are standard. They are followed by manufacturers of domestic and foreign brands. There is no single formula for calculating costs, since everything depends on the individual cutting.

Sheet thickness

There are many more options for this parameter in polycarbonate. Both honeycomb and monolithic plates are available in thicknesses of 4, 8, 16, 6 and 10 mm. Lightweight series are thinned to 3.5 and even 3 mm.

Compacted sheets within 20-32 mm are made to order. They are rarely found on the open market. Such types are used for structures where strength is especially important.

For greenhouses and greenhouses summer cottages the most commonly used material is 4 mm thick. The room will last 3-4 years, but will cope with its functions perfectly well. In harsh climatic conditions with storm gusts of wind, frequent hail, it is recommended to take cellular polycarbonate 6 mm (less often 10). Thicker varieties, for all their strength, will not transmit enough light. It will be extremely hot or cold inside, depending on the weather of the day. In addition, the thickness of 16 mm makes the construction extremely heavy. It is necessary to strengthen the frame, and it is quite difficult to build it yourself.

Colour

For greenhouses, you can choose not only colorless, but also colored polycarbonate.

Colorless is standard. It misses up to 80% of the natural sunlight, disperses it evenly, suitable for all types of plants.

Colored options reduce light transmission, change spectra. Therefore, they should be taken only under certain cultures and conditions:

• brown, red, green shades - for berries, flowers and mushrooms;
• white shades - for crops;
• yellow shades - to avoid burns in hot climates (transmits 72% of the light);
• bronze - for shady plants (up to 60% of the light).

From turquoise, opal, blue flowers better to refuse. They scatter no more than 40% of the rays, while the most important of them do not pass through the spectrum.

If in a greenhouse artificial lighting, you can safely take polycarbonate of any color.

Also, experts recommend paying close attention to textures. Matte sheets are only suitable southern regions with plenty of sun. They protect well from burns, passing only 65% ​​of the rays. In other regions, it is better to opt for transparent polycarbonate. At short day, a small number of hours of sunshine, photosynthesis should not be slowed down by haze.

UV coating

The plastic from which polycarbonate is made is subject to destruction. ultraviolet rays. Constant heavy exposure leads to the formation of microcracks on the surface. Over time, the stars blur into large webs. In the end, the sheet finally breaks, the structure collapses.

The process of photodestruction of polycarbonate is slowed down by a special coating. The protective function is performed by films resistant to ultraviolet radiation. They are attached to the surface of the sheet using co-extrusion technology. The bonding of the layers occurs while still in liquid form, so the risk of separation of the coating and the base during operation is minimal.

Most brands apply the coating on one side of the plates. Bilateral protection is rare or is made to order. Has a mark on the machined side. For greenhouses, a film on the outside is sufficient, where direct contact with radiation occurs.

Latest Achievements technological process made it possible to start production of polycarbonate with the initial inclusion of a protective additive. The component is mixed into the plastic itself, so the film becomes unnecessary. The percentage of UV absorption is about 30-45%. There is a corresponding mark on the sheets.

Polycarbonate without a filter is not suitable for plants. It is only suitable for internal works, because under the sun it collapses in less than a year.

Make no mistake with the choice plastic panels advice from experienced farmers will help. Practical experience a large number people shows that you need to pay attention to the following nuances:

If you have any doubts about the authenticity of the goods, you can always ask the seller for a certificate. Documentation is always attached to the original sheets. Counterfeits can be not only ineffective, but also dangerous due to the release harmful impurities upon contact with the sun.

Features of the construction of a polycarbonate greenhouse

Rational use of material significantly reduces the cost and time. Experts advise to follow the rules:

1. For arched structures, arcs of 6 and 12 mm are made.
2. All joints must fall on the profile. Arcs, the frame is best made solid to increase strength.
3. For a gable greenhouse, the wall and roof are guided by the size of the sheet. Each plate should divide without residue.
4. Between the frame and sheets make gaps of about 2-3 mm. This is done for the free expansion of polycarbonate when heated. For the same purposes, the bolt holes are made slightly larger than the declared diameter.
5. It is preferable to use rubber washers in the places of fastenings with bolts to soften during expansion. So cracks will not go.
6. It is better to cover the outer ribs with a vapor-proof film or profile. Gives moisture protection and eliminates clogging. The inner edges are left as is, so that the condensate drains freely.

In this way, savings are achieved without loss of greenhouse productivity.

During transportation, polycarbonate is laid flat in the body. The location on the ribs deforms the sheets. Plates up to 8 mm must fit completely into the machine to avoid breakage. Thicker ones can be left suspended by 0.5-1 m. Thin flexible options can be rolled into a half-roll and secured with tape.

Storage of material is carried out in a dry closed room away from the open sun. Perfect for a shed or garage. On the street, it is better to stack the blanks on top of each other without packaging (UV layer up) and cover with an awning.

To clean the walls of the greenhouse, non-aggressive agents are used. The best option for washing soap solution and wet rags. After cleaning, the walls are wiped dry to maintain the best transparency.

A competent choice and work with polycarbonate is the key to a long service life of the greenhouse, good harvest without harm to plants.

A greenhouse is one of the main objects in a summer cottage or garden plot. In it, you can grow all kinds of plants that simply cannot bear fruit in the cool, and in some places - cold Russian climate. That is why you should think carefully about the arrangement of the greenhouse. And if before the greenhouse covered only with glass or dense polyethylene, now polycarbonate is also used for this.

But in order for the building to please you for many years, it is very important to carefully choose not only the frame, but also this material. One of the main characteristics of polycarbonate is its density.

First you need to figure out what polycarbonate is in general. By itself, it is a colorless solid polymer plastic, which is made from polycarbonate granules. Has mass positive properties, thanks to which it has become one of the most popular materials used in the construction of greenhouses.

The main advantages of polycarbonate are that it:

• not afraid of frost;
• has high strength;
• easy;
• plastic;
• thermoplastic;
• does not conduct electricity;
• optically transparent (which is very important for plants living in a greenhouse);
• can be recycled;
• durable.

All these properties of polycarbonate appeared due to the special structure of the macromolecules of which it consists.

On a note! Polycarbonate is thermoplastic. This means that even after repeated melting, solidifying, it again restores its properties.

Polycarbonate is monolithic and cellular. The first option is a dense sheet, similar to glass, only much lighter, without voids inside.

And the second type is a material that is a sheet with a visible internal structure. This is a multilayer structure with many small jumpers, the so-called stiffeners.

Consider the properties of this material in more detail. Knowing everything about them, you will immediately understand why polycarbonate is so often used to create greenhouses.

1. Ease. Monolithic polycarbonate is very light - it is 2 times lighter than glass. And cellular polycarbonate has even less weight - it is 6 times lighter than the same glass. It is due to this that it is possible to create large, but at the same time lightweight structures from the material, and due to the fact that it is possible to install a simpler and narrower frame, the light-transmitting surface also increases, which is especially important for greenhouses. By the way, due to the simplification of the base, the cost of the entire structure is also reduced. Lightness also ensures ease of installation - work can be done on your own without the use of complex lifting devices.

   

2. Good thermal insulation. Thanks to the air in the voids inside the cellular polycarbonate sheet, the material retains heat much better than ordinary glass.
3. Strength. Due to the special structure of the molecules that make up polycarbonate, it is very durable material- if we compare it with glass, then it is not afraid of blows, it also withstands other physical influences - for example, the severity of snow or strong wind. By the way, even if a polycarbonate sheet breaks for some reason, its fragments will not fly in all directions, which cannot be said about glass. However, they do not pose such a danger.

   

   Evaluation of priority properties sheet plastics and glass (according to a 5-point system) when used as construction materials on objects. The values ​​are given for sheet materials with a thickness of 4 mm.
   PMMA - polymethyl methacrylate;
   PVC polyvinyl chloride;
   PET-G - polyethylene terephthalate-glycol;
   PS-polystyrene;
   HIPS - high impact polystyrene;
   PC - polycarbonate.

4. Transparency. Monolithic polycarbonate transmits up to 90% of light - this figure is greater than that of glass. Cellular polycarbonate is not transparent to such an extent, but, nevertheless, the thin version of the material transmits up to 85% of the light.

   

5. Flexibility. Polycarbonate is very flexible and, thanks to this property, it is convenient for them to cover structures with arches. It is due to this, and also thanks to the convenient profiles, that polycarbonate is very easy to install.
6. Heat resistance. Polycarbonate withstands temperatures from -40 to +120 degrees.
7. Ease of care. This material can be simply washed with water and a cloth, even without the use of cleaning products. If their use is necessary, then you can use any, except those containing ammonia - this is the only substance that polycarbonate does not like.

   

8. Durability. Good polycarbonate can last for decades.

What is density

One of the main properties that you should pay attention to when buying polycarbonate is its density. If you explain this concept in terms of physics, this is the ratio of the weight of a material to its volume. And the density can be completely different. That is, even with the same thickness different sheets polycarbonate, they can have a weight of 0.72 kilograms per cubic meter, and 0.52.

Density greatly affects all other parameters of polycarbonate. For example, taking a lightweight sheet of cellular polycarbonate with a density of 0.52 kg / m3 and carefully examining its structure, you can see that both the walls themselves and the internal stiffeners between them will be much thinner than polycarbonate with a density of 0.72. And due to the fact that these partitions are thinner, the material immediately loses strength and rigidity, and becomes quite brittle. And because of this, it is more susceptible to damage, loses its impact resistance, easily breaks under heavy weight - that is why greenhouses and structures made of such polycarbonate should always be cleared of snow on time, and this causes certain inconvenience to those who have household plot located outside the city.

Attention! Lightweight cellular polycarbonate has an average service life of 3-4 years less than conventional polycarbonate.

Below is a table that shows how the properties of cellular polycarbonate change depending on its density and specific gravity.

Table. Dependence of the technical characteristics of cellular polycarbonate on its density.

Panel thickness, mm	Specific gravity, g/m3	Sheet weight 600x210 cm, kg	Step between ribs, mm	Transparency, %
4	660	8,2	5,6	92
6	1300	15	5,6	90
8	1500	17,5	11	88
10	1800	22,5	11	86
12	2000	24,5	15	84
16	2700	33,6	20	82
25	3500	43,7	26	80
32	4300	54	30	78
40	5400	67,5	40	75

Let us note that different manufacturers finished products may differ slightly in their technical characteristics.

Attention! Many people confuse the concepts of specific gravity and density. You don't need to do this. Specific gravity is the ratio of density to volume of a substance, and density is also a ratio, but already mass to volume.

Factors that affect density

The density of polycarbonate is highly dependent on the type of material. It is influenced by its structure, mass, volume and other factors. For example, if a polycarbonate sheet is heavy but has a small volume, then it is very dense compared to a lighter sheet of the same volume. Therefore, it is easier to determine the density "by eye" for a monolithic material without voids. But the density of cellular polycarbonate is visually more difficult to estimate: here big influence renders the size of the voids, their shape.

Table. Types of voids in cellular polycarbonate.

Section type	Description and characteristics	Density
	The most common type of polycarbonate, because it is the cheapest, since the least raw materials are consumed in the manufacture of this type of sheet. Less durable, but it bends better than other types of sheets and has the greatest transparency. The density of such polycarbonate is the lowest.	0.52 to 0.61 g/cm3
	The voids in such a sheet are narrower than in the previous version, since the stiffeners are located closer to each other here. The material is less flexible compared to the previous type, transmits less light, but is already more durable. Sheet density is higher.	0.62 to 0.77 g/cm3
	The most dense and durable type of material. It is most often used where critical temperatures are observed in winter, and there is also a large wind load. Such polycarbonate sheets are very reliable, but they do not bend well and transmit light.	0.78 to 0.82 g/cm3

Based on the foregoing, we can conclude that its operational characteristics largely depend on the density of polycarbonate. It affects how the material will resist fire, hail, wind, sun, temperature, etc. external factors. The higher the density, the better the polycarbonate resists all these influences. But the same parameter greatly affects the transparency of polycarbonate. That is why during construction it is necessary to clearly know what material to take.

Monolithic polycarbonate has the highest performance, as well as excellent density. It is usually used to create fences, strong canopies, awnings, facade glazing on buildings, making glass in portholes, and so on. It is not used to create greenhouses.

Cellular polycarbonate has a lower density, but higher thermal insulation properties. And that is why he the best way to create greenhouses and greenhouses.

Choosing the right density

How to determine what density and thickness polycarbonate sheets should be in order for the greenhouse to be of high quality? To do this, you should know the main scope of the material.

For example, 4 mm thick polycarbonate can be used for design, light decorative partitions, canopies, as well as for greenhouses, but small ones. But sheets with a thickness of 8, 10 and 12 mm are used to create already more durable structures: capital canopies, roofs, as well as farm greenhouses, where plants are grown all year round. More durable sheets, as a rule, are not used for the construction of greenhouses.

Attention! Minimum the density of polycarbonate for its use for the purpose of building a greenhouse should not be less than 0.72, provided that the sheet thickness is 4 mm. Otherwise, there is a high risk that the structure will collapse very quickly, and snow in the winter season will have to be removed from it after each snowfall.

Note that earlier, at the dawn of the use of polycarbonate, manufacturers supplied material with a density of 0.8 to stores with a thickness of 4 mm, but now due to savings production costs such polycarbonate is hard to find. The option described above is considered the best, so do not listen to those sellers who will offer you to buy material with a density of 0.6-0.65 - its thickness will most likely be about 3.8 mm, and this is not enough to create high-quality greenhouses.

Video - Polycarbonate Novoglass

How to make the right choice of polycarbonate?

How to do right choice cellular polycarbonate, so that the greenhouse created from it served for many years and helped to obtain high-quality and big harvest? To do this, follow these instructions.

Step 1. Explore online forums for information about various brands, manufacturers of cellular polycarbonate. Thanks to the reviews that write real people, we can draw conclusions about the quality of a particular product. Having studied this information before visiting the store, you will already know which company you need cellular polycarbonate.

Step 2 In the store, carefully inspect the products offered to you. Polycarbonate sheets must be intact.

Step 3 Check the stiffeners. They should be straight - no waviness.

Step 4 Check how polycarbonate is stored. Sheets should be on special racks, in no case be folded or stand on the edges.

Step 5 On high-quality polycarbonate, there are usually identification marks of the manufacturer, a shipping film. If this is not the case, then perhaps they are trying to sell you low-grade material under the guise of branded products. By the way, about the film - it should not have swelling and bumps.

Step 6 Even if the seller offers you a seemingly good polycarbonate that supposedly meets all the requirements, do not be lazy and double-check it physical parameters- weight, thickness. The fact is that it is extremely difficult to distinguish visually 4 mm from, for example, 3.8, so it is better to take a ruler with you and measure it yourself - negligent sellers can take advantage of the gullibility of the buyer. And a greenhouse made from thinner, low-density polycarbonate will turn out to be fragile and of poor quality.

Step 7 Check sheet weight. Its average weight should be about 10 kg. If the sheet weighs less, then perhaps you are being sold a lightweight type of polycarbonate.

Attention! Lightweight polycarbonate poorly resists temperature extremes, retains heat worse, is fragile, wears out quickly and is not suitable for creating a permanent greenhouse.

Step 8 Ask the seller for documents and certificates for products. They must clearly spell out all the parameters of the material, and they (parameters) must match the real characteristics.

Step 9 As a rule, on high-quality polycarbonate there is a mark that it is covered with a film that protects the material from ultraviolet radiation. Surfaces with UV protection must be free of scratches.