Do-it-yourself translucent roofs of plexiglass terraces. What is a transparent roofing polymer. The main design features of a transparent roof

In colloquial speech, slate is often called all wavy roofing sheets, only at the same time they specify how it looks and what material it is made of. Recently, more and more often in suburban summer cottages, as well as in urban private houses, you can see the roofs of verandas, gazebos, awnings over car platform from transparent slate, as well as original light-transmitting inserts in the roofs, made of the same material.

Therefore, transparent slate: varieties and installation instructions are of interest to many owners of suburban areas who are just starting to plan buildings, or have decided to reconstruct them.

Transparent roofing material is made of polyvinyl chloride, plexiglass, fiberglass or. All of these polymers have their own pros and cons, as well as their own advantages over other traditional roofing materials. Since this type of building materials is still an unknown novelty for many, before buying it, quite rightly, a lot of questions arise about the characteristics and features of roofing.

Transparent roofing material can be used in quite a variety of ways. And to make sure that it is able to be not only a functional coating, but also to give a special aesthetic to any structure, it is worth considering several options for its application.

Transparent slate is often used to cover roofs. individual rooms public buildings and agricultural structures. The material is mounted completely on the entire roof or inserts are made from it, which serve to illuminate interior spaces that do not have windows, which helps to significantly save on electricity.

It is used to cover arched structures in poultry farms, greenhouse complexes, as well as hangars and construction warehouses.

Increasingly, transparent slate in combination with other materials is used for the device. For example, on this photo a structure made of transparent tinted material is presented, protected from the outside by a chain-link mesh. This lightweight building looks quite aesthetically pleasing, but at the same time it is quite reliable, since it is not easy for an attacker to overcome it without the owners noticing it.

Transparent slate makes an excellent canopy over car parking- such a building will cost much cheaper than a capital garage. Moreover, if desired, it is quite possible to use it as a gazebo by installing a table, chairs or a sunbed under the roof.

Covering gazebos, terraces and verandas with this material is increasingly included in landscape design, as it adds exclusivity and aesthetics to it. In addition, a transparent roof helps to save on electricity, as under it the whole daylight hours will be light.

, completely built from sheets of transparent slate or with a roof of similar material, function perfectly not only in the spring, but even in winter. This is because the material retains heat well inside the building and does not let the wind through, but daylight enters during the whole daylight hours.

Functional, lightweight and at the same time - beautiful canopy above the home pool

To protect the pool from the wind, ultraviolet rays, dust and tree leaves transparent slate is the best option. It looks harmoniously with the water surface against the backdrop of natural landscapes, and most importantly - the pool - can be used in summer in any weather.

This material has become very popular for mounting canopies over entrance doors, as well as for forming figured roofs over terraces. All this is due to light weight, original appearance and the ability to create structures of various shapes.

The main areas of application of plastic transparent slate were listed above, but besides this, they cover winter gardens and balconies, arrange interior partitions from it, sheds over the territory of the yard and much more.

Advantages and disadvantages of transparent slate

Having briefly familiarized ourselves with the areas of application of this relatively new modern coating, we can conclude that it has numerous positive qualities. However, it is not without specific shortcomings. It is also necessary to obtain information about all these “polar” qualities in order to have an idea of how the material will behave when exposed to various external factors.

Advantages of transparent slate

To positive qualities This material can undoubtedly be attributed to the following:

Strength

Transparent modern plastics designed for roofing, walls and partitions are designed for outdoor use, so they have high impact resistance and are dozens of times superior to glass in this quality. As a result of the foregoing, plastic slate can be called an absolutely safe material to use. So, for example, when hail falls on such a roof, in the worst case, it will leave a crack on its surface, but the glass can shatter and wake up on the head of those who will be inside, say, a greenhouse or

Light transmission

The transparency of the roof makes it possible to achieve maximum daylight under the roof, which is especially important if it is arranged above the greenhouse, conservatory or poultry houses. Good lighting for a gazebo, workshop or balcony will not hurt either, because thanks to the transparent coating you will not have to turn on artificial light once again, which will significantly reduce energy costs.

Ecological purity of the material

The environmental friendliness of the material is one of the most important qualities of such roofing. During operation and under the influence of external factors, plastic slate does not begin to emit harmful to humans or environment substances. In contrast, traditional asbestos-cement roofing becomes dangerous to human health over time. Characteristically, since 2005, asbestos-containing materials are generally prohibited for use in European countries.

UV resistance

UV resistance is also an equally important advantage of transparent roofing. It passes the sun's rays through without absorbing them, so it is less prone to damage from ultraviolet radiation, which can be called the main enemy of most other roofing.

The transparent roof practically does not heat up and does not accumulate heat, as it does not absorb heat rays. Unlike it, metal roofs, as well as traditional slate, get very hot, and then, with the onset of evening and a decrease in atmospheric temperature, they begin to give off heat inside the premises.

Flexibility of transparent slate

The flexibility that transparent polymer slate has makes it possible to design and install complex roof structures - these can be arches, semi-arches, domes, trapezoids and other even more intricate structures consisting of several geometric shapes.

The lightness of transparent slate

A transparent roof not only looks airy, but also has a very low weight, so it practically does not put a load on the foundation and walls of the building, which is its clear advantage over other roofing materials.

Aesthetic clear coat

Aesthetics is an indisputable quality of translucent slate. With the use of this material, surprisingly beautiful verandas, awnings and gazebos are obtained, and greenhouses installed on the site look no worse. Such structures can be great addition designer in a certain style.

Temperature resistance

The advantages of such a translucent slate include its endurance to low and high temperatures, as well as their sudden changes. So, roofing plastic is designed for use in the temperature range from -50 to +120 degrees, which means that it can be used in almost any Russian region, with the exception of only a few "cold poles".

Disadvantages of transparent slate

The disadvantages of using transparent slate for the construction of the roof of a private house include the following points:

The complexity of the work. Installation of plastics on the truss system must be carried out with extreme caution, since any of them is not designed for too much point, undistributed load. Therefore, special flooring or scaffolding will be required for work.
Plastic transparent coating is not compatible with all roofing materials and truss systems. Therefore, the "minuses" of these materials include the limited use of them.

Nevertheless, the conclusion clearly suggests itself that the material, with high-quality installation and correct use, has much more advantages than negative qualities.

In addition to the general "pluses" and "minuses" of transparent slate, for the right choice for a specific application, it is necessary to have an idea about the qualities of the varieties of this material. And you need to start with general characteristics which are common to all transparent plastics.

Forms of release of transparent roofing

A fairly wide range of transparent material offered for sale can also be attributed to its positive qualities. You also need to get information about this in order to make the right choice.

Variety of colors

Transparent slate has a lot of colors, which allows you to choose desired option for a specific building. It is produced in the following color scheme:

- transparent, colorless;

- color - the color of slate can be pure or mixed, such as turquoise, beige, milky, bronze, etc.

If colorless transparent slate is used for greenhouses, then for other buildings it is quite possible to use different color options.

The color of the selected slate for a visor, veranda, terrace or fence should be organically combined with the design of the walls of the facade of the house. Therefore, if the ideal shade is not found, then you can choose a neutral one, for example, smoky or bronze.

Light transmission level

In addition to the color range, plastic slate is also divided according to the level of light transmission:

— Completely transparent, having 92÷95% light transmission. It may well be comparable to glass, so it is used for rooms that require increased lighting.

— The translucent material has 55÷75% light transmission. Behind it, the contours of individual objects are visible, but it will not be possible to consider them properly.

- Matte slate has the lowest percentage of transparency, so it practically does not let light through. But on the other hand, it is distinguished by the most intense coloring.

- Opaque material is completely opaque.

Sheet profile configuration

Plastic slate can look different, and in many respects its appearance depends on the cross section - it can have different shapes and sizes:

- wavy shape, in the form of smooth sinusoidal waves;

- trapezoidal waves have clear wave boundaries, like most types of metal;

Not quite "slate" - roofing sheets without wavy shapes

- flat sheets are divided into monolithic and honeycomb options.

Table of wave types by size and color:

Wave (length, mm / height, mm)	Sheet length, mm	Sheet width, mm	Thickness, mm	Material color
146/48	2000	1090	1.1÷1.3	Transparent
94/34	2000	900	1	Red Green Yellow Blue Brown Black
70/18	2000	1090	0.8	Clear Smoky Yellow Green Red Blue
76/18	2000	900	0.8	Transparent Smoky
76/18	2000	1030	2.5	Prism

It should be noted here that slate, which has a wavy shape or a trapezoidal profile, has much greater rigidity and strength compared to flat sheets, therefore it is more resistant to shock and static loads. Thanks to such configurations, water is more efficiently drained from the roof, leaving less traces of drops.

Corrugated slate is produced in sheets and rolls. Their dimensions are selected in accordance with the existing dimensions of the roof slopes. Standard sheet parameters: 2000×900; 2000×1086; 2200×1140 mm and others, depending on the type of material and manufacturer. Each slate sheet usually has 7-12 waves, depending on their width and depth.

Slate sold in rolls can have a length of 10, 20, 30 m and a width of 1.5 ÷ 3 m. These dimensions allow the use of solid fragments of material to cover one roof slope in length or width. Thanks to such coating parameters, even on a large roof slope, the number of sheet joints is significantly reduced, and the installation process itself is also simplified.

Materials for the manufacture of transparent slate and their characteristics

So, transparent slate is made of four types of plastic - these are polyvinyl chloride, fiberglass, acrylic plexiglass and polycarbonate.

Reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

PVC slate sheets are produced in transparent or color options, they can have different sizes and thicknesses. The material has large quantity advantages, the main of which are lightness, strength and fire safety.

Transparent PVC slate has the ability to scatter light, which is well suited for arranging roofs winter gardens, greenhouses, and balconies.

PVC slate can have trapezoidal and sinusoidal waves, but it is not produced in the form of even sheets.

This material can be of two types - conventional and reinforced with fiberglass. The second option has more mechanical strength but less flexibility.

Polyvinyl chloride, unlike polycarbonate, is more resistant to chemical aggressive substances. Therefore, it is well suited for arranging the roofs of balconies and canopies over the entrance to houses located in industrial areas where dust with an admixture of aggressive elements or acid precipitation is possible.

The standard sizes for PVC sheets are 2000×1090 and 2000×1080 mm with a sheet thickness of 2 mm and a number of waves from 5 to 8 pieces. The weight of the sheet is 2.5 ÷ 3 kg, which is much lighter than any other roofing material.

On the Russian market, this plastic slate is presented in a colorless transparent form, as well as in blue, blue, red, yellow and green palettes. Opaque PVC slate is produced in gray and blue.

Polycarbonate slate

Three types of roofing material are produced from polycarbonate - it is monolithic, honeycomb and with sine waves. All of them can be used for arranging a roof, but each of them is suitable for a specific case. For example, monolithic sheets of material are used to insert sase into the roof of a residential building, since they are thick enough and are quite capable of replacing the usual glazing.

For the manufacture of greenhouses, canopies, canopies and gazebos, honeycomb and corrugated plastic slate is most often used.

Polycarbonate honeycomb sheets are interconnected by profile elements provided for this purpose, and wavy sheets are overlapped in one wave.

Slate from this plastic has its advantages over other similar coatings. These advantages include:

- High resistance to mechanical stress. Polycarbonate can withstand heavy objects falling on it, and with a properly arranged truss system, it can withstand the weight of one person, which is very important for ease of installation and repair work on the roof.

- Polycarbonate is the most resistant of all types of plastic slate to ultraviolet radiation, as it does not lose its original appearance under its influence for 8-10 years.

- Wavy and honeycomb sheets are lightweight. So, a corrugated sheet with an area of 1 m² weighs only 1.15 ÷ 1.2 kg with a thickness of 0.9 ÷ 1 mm.

Video: useful information about profiled polycarbonate

Plexiglas slate

Acrylic plexiglass is produced in monolithic and corrugated sheets, with sinusoidal and trapezoidal waves. Acrylic slate has a glossy surface, it diffuses well sunlight and absorbs noise. Monolithic sheets are great as inserts in the mansard roof of residential buildings, while the corrugated version is used for roofs of light buildings, canopies, balcony roofs, etc.

The thickness of slate sheets is most often 1 ÷ 1.2 mm, and monolithic from 1 to 24 mm.

The length of slate sheets can be 4000, 6000 and 12000 mm, but for their comfortable transportation standard size usually in length does not exceed 2050 ÷ 3050 mm. The material is resistant to deformation and brittleness, even when exposed to ultraviolet rays and other natural factors, as well as to chemical inorganic influences.

Acrylic slate has a fairly high impact resistance, and can be used at temperatures of -40 to +80 ˚С.

A very important quality is the environmental friendliness of the material. Throughout the entire period of operation, it does not emit toxic substances and is absolutely safe for human health. The disadvantage of the material is the instability to many organic solvents.

fiberglass slate

Fiberglass is made from polyester resin, which ensures the resistance of the material to aggressive atmospheric influences, and glass fibers, which give the sheets special strength. Due to its components, fiberglass has high heat resistance and frost resistance - its operating temperature can vary from -40 to + 140˚С.

Fiberglass is produced in sheets and rolls, so you can choose a form of manufacture that is convenient for installation.

The material has a low thermal conductivity, so slate from it is great for arranging the roofs of greenhouses, greenhouses and greenhouses. A variety of colors of fiberglass allows you to use this material as a decorative one, using it for the construction of gazebos, roofs of balconies and other buildings for household or household purposes.

The standard roll size is 2.5×20, 2×20, 1.5×20 m. The thickness of the roofing material can be from 0.8 to 2 mm.

Fiberglass is light in weight. Thus, a sheet with a size of 3000 × 1000 mm weighs only 3.5 kg, which greatly facilitates its lifting to a height and installation.

Manufacturers give a guarantee for fiberglass roofing up to 10 years.

Installation of transparent slate

The installation of plastic slate has its own nuances, which also need to be studied before the start of roofing. One of highlights is the basis for fixing the material - the design of the crate, so you should follow the existing recommendations.

How to mount wave transparent slate

Calculation of the parameters of the crate

Naturally, first of all, for laying any roofing material, a crate must be prepared. Most often, it is made of a wooden beam, placing guides transverse to the waves with a certain step. But the step itself depends on the thickness of the profiled sheet, and on the expected load on the roof.

The minimum distance between the transverse supports (sheathing pitch) mm, with the thickness of the profiled sheet:
	0.8mm	1.0 mm	1.2mm	1.5mm
50	975	1050	1125	1225
75	850	925	975	1050
100	775	850	900	950
125	725	775	825	900
150	675	725	775	850
200	625	650	700	750
250	575	625	650	700
300	525	575	625	675
350	500	550	575	625
The minimum slope of the ramp is not lower than 10 °

Now it remains to decide what will be the load on the roof. This indicator is the sum of the possible snow and wind loads, which, in turn, depend on the region of construction, the specific location of the building or structure, and the steepness of the slope. Obviously, the steeper the slope, the less impact the snow load will have, but at the same time the importance of the wind load will increase.

There is a special algorithm for calculating the load on roofing. It contains several formulas and quite a few tables with fixed values and various correction factors. But in order to simplify the task for the reader, we have compiled a special calculator that will allow you to quickly and with quite acceptable, very small error calculate the planned load in just a few minutes.

Roof Load Calculator

So, first you need to determine which zone in terms of snow and wind load the construction area belongs to. It is not difficult to do this using the maps of the territory of Russia placed below.

The rest of the parameters - the angle of the slope, the degree of openness of the territory, the height of the building - everything is easy to determine in place.

When determining the degree of openness of the construction site (zones "A", "B" and "C"), it should be borne in mind that characteristic artificial or natural wind barriers should be located no further than in a circle outlined with a radius of 30 ×h, whereh is the height of the roof above ground level.

Having all the above data on hand, you can enter them into the calculator and get the calculated value of the total pressure on the roof.

Transparent slate - comparatively new material, which quickly won its place in the construction market. To the more familiar to us gypsum and cement slate, this roofing material has a rather distant relationship, and there is a similarity only in the wavy profile and the shape of the sheets. But how many benefits! In the people, "transparent slate" is called all wavy and corrugated transparent sheets of sufficient strength so that they can be mounted on the roof.

This includes the corresponding plexiglass, PVC and solid polycarbonate products. And they cover everything with this material: sheds, gazebos, winter gardens, outbuildings and even part of the roof of a residential building. But what is the advantage of transparent slate over more traditional and proven materials, and how to work with this novelty? Let's find out!

What are the advantages of such roofing material?

Transparent slate is especially in demand in the construction of transparent domes, for which a thermoforming tool is used. But in housing construction, such an unusual material also finds its application. After all, translucent roofs made of slate are particularly elegant and almost do not create a load on the foundation, and this is far from the only advantage of such a material. So let's list:

Item 1. Lightness

For all its strength, all materials hiding under the name "transparent slate" are relatively light. They are great for roofing small structures, buildings and replacing part of the roof over the attic. Note that any plastic, for example, is at least two times lighter than the same glass.

Item 2. Aesthetics

An important component of any design is light, and the best is sunlight. Attics with absolutely transparent walls and a roof turn out to be incredibly beautiful, any outbuilding looks spectacular. It is not for nothing that transparent materials play a special role for decorators from all over the world, creating ease of perception, a sense of purity and style.

Item 3. Light transmission

And this is an important plus! Transparent slate is indispensable if you want to make part of the roof open to light, and is valuable for those buildings that like to grow mold inside in the dark. Even for a simple firewood shed, it is better to take just such a coating, not to mention workshops and change houses.

But the main problem modern humanity is that we rarely go out into the open, and then the whole body suffers from a lack of sunlight (at least diffused, the need for which even four windows in the office will not satisfy).

Item 4. UV resistance

Because transparent slate does not absorb the sun's rays, but passes them through itself, then it is much less susceptible to destruction from ultraviolet radiation - the main enemy of all existing roofs.

The second point - passing through the sun's rays, the transparent slate does not heat up! Try the window sill on a sunny day - it's warm and window glass while remaining cold. Exactly according to the same principle, our planet also heats up - at first the solid earth, and not transparent air, and only heat rises from it. Why and the higher, the cooler, although it would seem closer to the sun.

The same story with transparent slate, and therefore its deformation and loss of quality from high temperature can be immediately minus. Now compare this material with roofing sheeting on a hot day that's getting hotter!

Item 5. Strength and safety

You will be surprised to know that today's clear plastics are 10 to 250 times more impact resistant than conventional glass. Therefore, they are considered much safer to operate.

Imagine for a moment: you built a change house-workshop on the site and used durable transparent slate as its roof, and your neighbor covered the same building with old glass frames.

And both of you are working in your cabins, while a soccer ball, a large apple or another meteorite has fallen on both roofs. In your case, either no damage to the coating, or a small crack, but fragments will fall on the neighbor. Safety above all!

Item 6. Savings

If you make the roof of a workshop, garage or chicken coop from transparent slate, you will no longer need artificial light - and this is a considerable savings, you must agree.

Moreover, we note that the transparent slate itself also withstands a serious temperature difference - from + 60 ° C to -50 ° C, which is wonderful for any Russian regions.

Item 7. Environmental safety

And this is one of the most troubling questions that concern modern society more and more. Ordinary slate from asbestos-cement sheets constantly releases a special fiber into the air, which, when it enters the human body, causes a variety of diseases. But modern plastic, plexiglass and polycarbonate are recognized as absolutely safe in this regard.

Item 8: Flexibility

Clear PVC or solid polycarbonate slate is flexible enough to be easily applied on complex roofs where certain roof elements need to be curved around. Not only beautiful, but also comfortable!

The only thing that confuses many is some fragility (often only visual) of transparent slate. Therefore, to be calm, when buying this roofing deck, take the technical documentation and compare the main indicators with other types of coatings: strength, thickness and compressive flexibility. After all, even ordinary glass looks too fragile and unreliable, but spectacular stairs are made from it in crowded offices.

Annoying cons, which are also worth knowing about

But the main disadvantages of using such a roofing material in the construction of the roof of an ordinary house:

Difficulty of installation. On any of the three materials from which the transparent roof is made, it is better not to stand on your feet, and therefore you cannot do without scaffolding.
Limited application. Far from all roofs it is possible to make a transparent insert, not to mention covering the entire area.
Low thermal protection. Due to its small thickness, transparent slate cannot be considered as a serious heat-insulating material.

But this, in principle, all the shortcomings. The benefits, as you can see, are much more. Here are the requirements for a roof that is covered with transparent slate:

Types of materials for the manufacture of transparent slate

So, what materials are actually included in the "transparent slate" group? Basically, as we said, these are three types:

Reinforced PVC slate the transparent and tinted slate of the most different thickness and height is made. Main advantages: fire safety and lightness. But it is quite rare to find transparent slate made of PVC on sale.
Polycarbonate slate. Moreover, we note that monolithic polycarbonate is used for this purpose, and not cellular, from which greenhouses are made. The installation of such sheets is carried out by overlapping, as with conventional corrugated board.
Plexiglas. Such products are distinguished by high optical properties, possess thicker and are decorated with a spectacular corrugated surface. Moreover, plexiglass with the same sheet thickness is exactly 16 times lighter!

But let's look at each type of transparent slate separately and in detail.

Transparent PVC slate

Transparent PVC slate is made of safe food grade plastic. But among all other similar materials, it transmits light the worst, although this is not always noticeable to the simple human eye. It can even be called translucent, and such light dispersion can be beneficial when arranging under the roof of a house. winter garden or mini-greenhouses.

Plastic slate for roofs is available in two types: regular and reinforced with thin fiberglass. Such reinforcement gives the transparent slate the necessary mechanical strength, but at the same time the slate itself does not lose its ability to bend.

The greatest advantage of plastic slate is that it tolerates contact with all chemicals without loss of quality, while the same polycarbonate immediately deteriorates. Therefore, such material is indispensable if there is a chemical plant in your region and acid precipitation sometimes falls.

Especially for roofing, plastic slate is produced from 2 mm thick, plus a ridge made of the same material. Only one sheet of such slate (and wave) will weigh no more than 2.5 kg - and this is already at least two times lighter than any other roofing material. And installation is simple:

Transparent polycarbonate slate

Transparent polycarbonate slate has the following advantages over other similar materials:

Strength and resistance to mechanical damage. Unlike plastic, polycarbonate slate is not damaged even by being hit by a heavy object, and calmly carries the weight of one or two people. This is a valuable point in terms of the maintainability of such a roof.
UV resistant. Such slate does not turn yellow even after 10 years, although it can always be under the scorching rays of the sun.
Ease of installation. It is easily cut, easily attached to the crate, and it is not difficult to work with it even for a person who is not at all versed in construction.
Light weight - only 1.17 kg per square meter, although its thickness is at least 0.9 mm.

It is from polycarbonate slate that most often they make a transparent insert in the house:

And for arranging a roof canopy over a pool or a gazebo, it’s not at all more interesting to find. And, of course, it is difficult to come up with something better for closed ground structures.

Moreover, to cover the roof in greenhouses and greenhouses today it has become fashionable to use transparent slate with special holes for water permeability - additional free watering!

Transparent fiberglass slate

Fiberglass has been produced since 2005 from hardened polyester resin, which is additionally reinforced with fiberglass for strength. And the resin provides the resistance of fiberglass to weathering.

Another type of material for transparent slate is fiberglass polymer. It is made by reinforcing with fiberglass, due to which a heat-resistant material is born, which easily tolerates temperatures from +140°C to frosts of -40°C.

It turns out a strong and durable roof, which is easy to work with. The trace on the sheets will remain only from a strong blow with a heavy object - and then only in the form of a white speck, which will not affect the general properties and qualities of the material.

And fiberglass is supplied both in ordinary sheets, rolled into rolls, and in the form of a finished profile like corrugated board.

Clear Plexiglas Slate

Organic glass is a thermoplastic transparent plastic. The most demanded product from this material is transparent corrugated sheets. Moreover, one of the sides of acrylic slate is made corrugated - in the form of crushed ice, a prism or drops.

Acrylic plexiglass perfectly absorbs noise, and therefore you will not hear the roar from the rain in the workshop. But the most valuable thing is that acrylic slate transmits ultraviolet - and this is one of the most important light spectra for growing plants in a greenhouse or conservatory.

Corrugated plexiglass is produced in two ways: by extrusion under the XT index and by the block method, by casting, under the GS index. Cast plexiglass does not break or crack when deformed, and therefore it is easier to make corrugated glass from it.

Still, acrylic slate in the factory is often coated with a special compound for additional properties. Thus, the manufacturer Plexiglas offers products with a no-drop coating, which allows the sheet surface to remain perfectly clean after rain - without rainwater flows, and a heatstop coating that reflects warm infrared rays inward and maintains a comfortable temperature in the room.

But, it would seem, why are the same streams from rain harmful? What's in them? The fact is that any drops are small prisms through which sunlight is refracted and burns the leaves of plants. Such is the subtlety of agricultural technology.

Another valuable property of plexiglass is shatterproofness. And this is your safety if the transparent slate roof accidentally breaks.

What does the modern market offer?

Among the brands, the most popular are Salux profiled sheets, made in Germany. Such transparent slate is so strong that not only roofs are covered with it, but even light walls are erected. At the same time, low weight is maintained, which is convenient for installation.

It is very similar in its properties to the previous transparent Tuftex slate. But there is a significant difference between the materials of these manufacturers: Tuftex slate is made of vinyl, while Salux is made of polyvinyl chloride.

But for the roofs of greenhouses and arbors, Salux W sheets are intended. They also enclose skylights in the farm. The quality of these sheets is at the highest level - within 10 years, even the thinnest of them, up to one millimeter, do not lose either strength or transparency.

No less popular on the Russian market are the products of such firms as the Italian "Eliplast" and the domestic "Eterus". For the installation of these materials, it is enough to use the same fasteners as for the steel profiled sheet.

French PVC slate from Ondex is also not inferior in quality. Transparent profiled sheets of this brand are durable: they withstand any snow and hail, are resistant to chemical attack, never become cloudy and delight with high fire resistance.

All sheets of this brand are manufactured in the factory by extrusion. Moreover, this plastic is also additionally stretched in the transverse and longitudinal directions to give it increased strength - this method is called bidirectional orientation.

If we talk about the existing grades of plexiglass, then we note that the differences in the main characteristics are insignificant and relate only to additives, dyes, equipment and packaging.

Installation of transparent slate on the roof

Unlike ordinary glass, which is difficult to process, transparent slate of any kind is easy to cut and mount on the roof. For this you will need the most conventional tools for processing wood and metal. And, due to the fact that transparent slate has a light weight, it does not need a special strong mount.

Step 1. Forming panels

Cutting transparent slate is easiest with a circular saw or a fine-toothed hacksaw.

And it’s good to make “tiles” from transparent plastic slate by simply cutting the slate into strips from 40 to 60 cm wide. And the installation is the same as with ordinary metal tiles, and with the same disadvantages in terms of material consumption and the risk of additional leaks. Plus, if the transparent slate is tinted, it is possible to select different shades and colors, making up stylish patterns.

Step 2. Lathing

So, to install a transparent slate on the roof, build a wooden crate of bars with a section of 5x5 cm, or fix metal profiles. The crate for such a roof is best made of wood.

Of course it fits metallic profile, but then paint it with white paint - so the heating will be less, and the roofing material will also avoid deformation. It is important that the crate step is not wider than 35 cm.

Step 3. Insulation

Steam and waterproofing for such a coating is not necessary - especially when it comes to the roof of a small building. In the case of the usual residential building Of course, we keep all the main stages: vapor barrier, if necessary, insulation, ventilation and waterproofing. And some insulating elements:

Step 4 Mounting on the roof

Lay the sheets from the bottom up and strictly perpendicular to the laths of the crate. Screw in the screws every three waves, and after two - at the cornices with gutters and along the ridge. Drill holes 3 mm larger than the diameter of the screw part of the self-tapping screw. In total, you should have at least 18 self-tapping screws on one sheet, if you did everything right.

It is desirable to fasten the sheets not with nails, but with self-tapping screws with rubber washers, but you can also use nails with anti-corrosion protection and a special notch. The main thing is not to sink nails and screws into the sheet, because. from this, the coating is not only deformed, but also capable of cracking.

Some subtleties

But in the process of installing polycarbonate slate, there are some subtleties. So, the heat expansion coefficient of this material is several times greater than that of a conventional metal profile, and therefore make holes for self-tapping screws at least 3 mm larger than usual.

Moreover, there must be a washer made of rubber, 24 mm wide for a hole of 10 mm. Keep an overlap of 20 cm, and additionally glue the joints with tape.

The process of installing fiberglass is simpler: the coefficient of linear expansion of such a material is as close as possible to glass, which is good for sealing roofing. After all, now there is no need to make holes of a much larger width, and therefore it is already more difficult for moisture to get into the under-roof space.

Interestingly, with the advent of a practical and safe transparent slate on the market, the manufacturers of its asbestos-cement analogue (with concomitant health risks) finally woke up and began to create a new product - the same slate, only in a polymer shell.

As a result, the same low price, the same materials, only now without fragility and hydrophobia. Such slate no longer emits dangerous dust fibers, it does not need to be painted and it is not afraid of moisture at all. Cunningly invented!

Transparent roofing materials are a relatively new proposal for the building materials market. What such roofs are made of and whether they are as fragile as they seem, this article will tell. In addition, we will consider the nuances of making a translucent roof with our own hands.

Latest developments in the field of construction appear almost daily, providing us with unlimited opportunities to implement any design solutions. One of the original novelties is transparent roofing materialscreating additional source light and visually expand the space.

Depending on the climatic conditions Light-transmitting roofs can be used in various structures:

Winter gardens and greenhouses.
Indoor pools.
Home observatories (partial roof covering).
Connecting galleries and transitions.
Stadiums and markets.

Types of transparent roofing materials

Classical glazing of the roof frame is rarely practiced - sheet glass is a very fragile and traumatic material. Its modern counterparts are much more practical and reliable:

Plexiglas (acrylic glass, plexiglass)

The material, which is 5 times stronger than glass and at the same time twice as light, protects against harmful UV rays without losing color. Its increased resistance to negative influence environment allows the use of plexiglass in complex structures: greenhouses, domed roofs, arched ceilings.

Polycarbonate (cellular and monolithic)

Possesses the increased impact resistance. Monolithic polycarbonate is ideal for anti-vandal protective glazing and the creation of curved elements (bends under high temperature). Due to its lightness, availability and wide range of colors, cellular polycarbonate is used almost everywhere: in everyday life - for arranging greenhouses, canopies and canopies, in public buildings - for ceilings and galleries.

Corrugated PVC (clear slate)

A transparent analogue of euroslate is made from vinyl (transparent roofing Tuftex) or from polyvinyl chloride (German brand Salux). Corrugated sheets are used both independently and for equipping windows in traditional roofing.

Profiled PVC sheet (transparent corrugated board)

Is plastic counterpart ordinary metal profiled sheet, completely repeating its size and shape. It can be used as a wall material, as well as light-transmitting inserts in fences and barriers.

Triplex (laminated glass)

It consists of several layers of sheet glass pressed together. The special strength of triplex is provided by coating with a special film and hardening of one or more constituent layers. When damaged, such material does not shatter into sharp fragments, but, crumbling with crumbs, remains on the film.

Reinforced polyester (sheet or roll)

Light-transmitting fiberglass is made from polyester resins with the addition of fiberglass. It can be flat or wavy, in the form of sheets or rolls. Reinforced polyester is currently the most economical and easy-to-install transparent roofing material with the widest range of applications. In the construction industry, it is in demand in the construction of sheds, covering recreation areas, stadiums, and fencing. In agriculture - in the construction of greenhouses and livestock complexes.

Advantages and disadvantages of a transparent roof

Such unusual architectural solutions as a transparent roof surprise and delight only the first few minutes. Then any sane person has a natural question - how practical is such a roof? Of course, much depends on the design features, but most translucent materials have a number of significant drawbacks:

Limited use - not all types of roofs can be covered with transparent roofing materials.
Psychological discomfort - most people need the feeling of a "material" roof over their heads.
The high cost of construction - calculations, frame, roofing materials and work can result in a tidy sum.
Installation complexity - due to the fragility of the material, all installation work must be carried out from scaffolding.
Low thermal protection - transparent plastic roofs are suitable only for warm regions.

In fairness, we note that all of the listed disadvantages arise when using a transparent roof to fully cover the house. Its episodic use is much more common - carports, summerhouses, arches, greenhouses and many other structures made of light-transmitting materials have more advantages:

visual expansion of space
natural daylight
weather protection
moisture resistance
high strength
aesthetic appearance
a wide range of textures, colors and shapes
corrosion resistance
UV protection

Making a choice in favor of the original transparent design, you should carefully weigh all the possible pros and cons. First of all, evaluate the scope of the proposed work. If you plan to install a roof large area, and you do not have experience in construction, it is better to seek help from professionals. Competent calculation of the permissible load, the choice of frame material, determination optimal material and installation in accordance with all regulations will help to avoid unpleasant consequences.

Small architectural forms using a transparent roof are quite easy to install even by amateurs. The most important thing is to take into account some features of light-transmitting materials:

To arrange the frame, you must select suitable look profiles:
- in large spans - steel profile;
- in spans of medium size - aluminum;
- on small spans - a PVC profile.
Much attention should be paid to proper sealing: synthetic rubber is most often used to seal the frame, and silicone waterproofing mastic or sealant is used for joints and edges of the roof.
Without fail, we take into account the slope of the roof: the steeper it is, the less the load on the sheet.
If additional thermal insulation is required, it is better to give preference cellular polycarbonate or plexiglass.
To avoid the accumulation of excessive condensate, it is necessary to ensure sufficient ventilation of the entire room and especially the under-roof space.
During installation, it is necessary to minimize the physical impact on the roof - it should not be stepped on.
Protective covering(film) can be removed after installation is complete.

A transparent roof, built in accordance with all the rules, will last from 15 to 50 years (depending on the material chosen). It is not picky in care - dome structures are washed naturally during rain, to clean other types of roofs, a soft sponge and soap and water are enough.

Light-transmitting roofing materials give a huge scope for design imagination, offering an infinite number of ideas and nuances. The most important thing is to take into account all design features, load-bearing and functional purpose future roof or fence.

Olga Danyushkina, rmnt.ru

The construction industry is constantly changing. This is especially true for roofing materials. For example, 10 years ago, a transparent roof was considered something outlandish, but today more and more often in suburban construction various designs made of glass and polymers are used. Therefore, many people ask questions: how reliable and durable is the transparent coating and how to independently install a translucent roof.

Transparent roof: its features and characteristics

Glass roofs are a relatively new phenomenon in construction, born for a number of reasons. They allow the room to be filled with natural light and visually expand the space.

Veranda with walls and a roof made of transparent material in summer period literally immersed in sunlight

If two houses are built close to each other, then it makes no sense to make windows towards the neighboring building: they will not be able to give the right amount of light. But the installation of an insert made of translucent material in the roof will solve the problem of lighting living rooms located in the shady part of the house.

When installing a transparent insert in a roof slope, the lathing is calculated not only for the transparent material, but also for the main coating

All transparent structures must have certain qualities:

provide required level lighting according to standards (SanPiN 2.2.1/2.1.1.1278-03, SNiP 23-05-95, SNiP II-A.8-62, etc.);
protect certain areas of the living space from direct sunlight so that a fire hazard does not arise, because glass can work like a lens;
do not interfere with the removal of smoke and vapors from residential and utility rooms;
have sufficient strength to withstand hail, snow loads and mechanical stress;
have high rates of hydro, heat, steam and sound insulation.

A transparent roof in a small country house visually increases the size of the premises

Video: types of innovative glass roofs

Types of transparent roofing materials

Simple roof glazing is rarely used, since sheet glass is a fragile and traumatic material. Therefore, it is replaced either with finished double-glazed windows with reinforced top layer, or durable plastic counterparts.

Sheet polycarbonate

Polycarbonates - cellular (cellular) and solid (monolithic) - belong to the group of thermoplastics.

They were identified by a German chemist in the 19th century and described as heat-resistant elements, vitreous and insoluble. And in the middle of the 20th century, scientists from Germany obtained a complex composition that at that time surpassed all polymer plastics in mechanical parameters. The new compound was patented under the brand name "Macrolon" by Bayer Material Science AG, which to this day is the largest supplier of polycarbonate.

Sheds made of colored monolithic polycarbonate are easy to install, beautiful and easy to use.

Also well-known foreign manufacturers in this area are:

Sabic Innovative Plastics - Lexan products;
Samyang Busines Chemicals - Trirex products;
Teijin and others.

Among domestic manufacturers, they have proven themselves well:

plant "Kronos" - Sellex products;
SafPlast Innovative - Novattro brand;
enterprise "Carboglass" - production of one, two, three and four-chamber polycarbonate.

All products of Russian suppliers are certified according to GOST R 56712–2015, GOST 24888 81, GOST R 51136 and other standards.

Modern polycarbonate is not inferior in strength to metal profiled sheets, is not subject to corrosion, and the honeycomb structure of the sheets provides additional insulation and soundproofing

Polycarbonate is practiced in buildings where heat resistance of the material is necessary. These include:

houses with roof inserts that let in light;
A bright plastic insert on the roof of the building allows the room to be filled with pleasant light during the day
rooftop restaurants;
The restaurant on the roof of the building is covered from precipitation with sheets of transparent polycarbonate
winter gardens;
The transparent polycarbonate roof allows light to pass through and retains the warmth needed for the plants in the winter garden.
outdoor pools;
greenhouses;
verandas, awnings, facade structures.
Canopies made of polycarbonate perfectly cover the space from rain and bright sunlight

The ends of the stacked sheets are sealed with silicone or special plugs to isolate the polycarbonate cavities from dust, dirt and cold air.

Video: monolithic polycarbonate - new for canopies

A wide range of plastic applications is associated with its characteristic features:

lightness of the material;
excellent light transmittance;
flexibility and strength;
viability (if a protective layer against ultraviolet radiation is present).

A plastic roof carport can be a great replacement for a closed garage.

Bearing structures for polycarbonate are made of a thin square section of 20x20 mm. This is enough for the roof to gain the necessary strength, despite its external airiness. And in suburban construction are usually used wooden planks or bars.

With prolonged exposure to the sun, standard polycarbonate becomes cloudy, turns yellow on the inside and becomes brittle. Therefore, when planning a plastic roof, you need to purchase brands with the addition of UV stabilizers.

Video: polycarbonate and hail - little tricks you need to know about

plexiglass

Organic glass is a transparent flexible thermoplastic (known as plexiglass or acrylic glass) with a certain strength and resistance to negative environmental manifestations. These properties allow it to be used in roofing structures.

Many properties of plexiglass are due to the peculiarities of its structure - transparent acrylic sheets are made with stiffeners that separate the channels filled with air

Plexiglas is different:

low thermal conductivity;
lightness - does not require the construction of additional supports, which creates the illusion of open space;
high light conductivity - almost 92%;
resistance to ultraviolet radiation, frost, moisture, fungi and mold;
environmentally friendly - when burning, it does not emit toxic fumes.

The roof of the attic made of transparent plexiglass turns the room at night into open area with a starry sky above

And also organic glass lends itself well to transformation during heat treatment without loss of optical properties. This makes it possible to create various designs from it.

Video: how to cut plexiglass yourself

But along with this, plexiglass also has disadvantages:

insufficient strength - such surfaces are prone to mechanical damage and scratches;
difficulties in forming - in the places of the bend, the internal stress of the material is manifested, which eventually leads to the formation of microcracks;
easy flammability.

The roof of a country house made of plexiglass is light, so it does not require complex reinforced structures

Sheets of organic glass are produced in various variations and can be: transparent and opaque, colorless and colored, smooth and corrugated. Chemical composition typical plexiglass for all manufacturers is the same. The only difference is in various additives that provide anti-vandal properties, UV-protective, noise-protective, light-scattering and others.

Acrylic sheets are diverse in color and texture, are light in weight and have high light transmission.

The most demanded in private construction are: molded plexiglass Plexiglas GS and extrusion Plexiglas XT produced by Evonik Industries AG (Germany). it suitable material for intricate designs.

Video: how to bend plexiglass

transparent slate

Corrugated sheet - a wavy translucent analogue of euroslate. This unusual material is more often used in suburban construction: all buildings made from it are light and do not create pressure on the supporting structures.

Wave transparent slate ennobles old buildings, but is still more valuable for modern buildings: it emphasizes individuality and allows you to embody the author's intention

Transparent slate has other advantages that are important for private developers:

A light roof made of transparent slate ennobles the appearance of the terrace and shelters from rain

But there are downsides to this beauty. durable material that you also need to know about:

Video: PVC slate strength test by mechanical action

Transparent slate is made from different plastic materials:

plexiglass - transmits ultraviolet light, which is indispensable for plants in a home greenhouse;
monolithic polycarbonate - with special permeable holes for covering the winter garden, provides additional watering for plants;
Transparent polycarbonate slate sheets are the most resistant to deformation, and the spectrum of rays passing through them is favorable for plants in the attic, in the winter garden or greenhouse
reinforced PVC - transmits less light, scattering it. Suitable for mini-greenhouses and winter garden. Acceptable cost ensures the success of this material in the market.

Table: characteristics of plastic slate on the example of Ondex sheets

The best manufacturers of transparent slate are:

French company Ondex - produces durable, hail-resistant sheets;
the German company VPW Nink GmbH - supplies products under the Salux brand;
the Russian company "Yug-Oil-Plast" - manufactures reinforced polymer slate.

Video: strength and combustion test of Ondex sheets

There is another type of transparent roof: the roofing sheet is fully or partially lined with glass tiles.

Glass tiles are mounted in the same way as clay tiles, and can be used in combination with it.

This roofing material is a revival of the forgotten old, since glass tiles were used back in the 30s of the last century. And to this day it is actively used in Europe.

The use of glass tiles allows the most efficient generation of solar energy for home heating

In Russia, this type of coating is not yet in demand due to the high cost of the material. However, roofs covered with such tiles have a strikingly beautiful appearance and significantly save energy during operation.

Video: laying glass tiles, its features

Glass tiles are made from impact-resistant glass and are equal in weight to traditional clay tiles.

Exists interesting way laying transparent tiles over a layer of black nylon, allowing you to get great amount heat to heat not only the whole house, but also water for the needs of the family. For this, the energy of the sun is used, which is redistributed throughout roofing cake with numerous air spaces. Through such a coating, about 350 kWh of heat is generated per 1 m² of roof glazing.

Besides:

The main supplier of glass tiles is the Swedish company SolTech Energy, which additionally offers ready-made roofing systems using this covering material:

Soltech Σigma - solar thermal design for standard water heating systems;
Soltech Alfa - air thermal system for heating a house based on low-temperature ventilation systems;
Soltech Power is an electricity generation system.

Roof made of transparent material

In their design, transparent roofs are quite simple. Their structure includes:

A particularly important link in a large structure is the crate, since the longevity of the transparent coating depends on its correctly calculated step. At the same time, the roof turns out to be reliable, able to withstand the expected loads without the risk of collapse.

When installing a transparent polycarbonate roof, it is advisable to have a ready-made scheme with you and pay special attention to the lathing device

Table: calculation of creating a transparent roof made of polycarbonate (to the installation diagram)

The distances between the lathing planks B (cm), rafters A (cm) and the minimum bending radius of the arch R (m) for different thicknesses of cellular polycarbonate sheets

6 mm

8 mm

10 mm

16 mm

FROM
crate
A/B

Without
battens
BUT

FROM
crate
A/B

Without
battens
BUT

FROM
crate
A/B

Without
battens
BUT

FROM
crate
A/B

Without
battens
BUT

100

105/79

1,0

120/90

1,3

123/92

1,7

125/95

2,6

90/90

95/95

100/100

110/110

82/103

90/110

90/115

95/120

160

88/66

100/75

105/75

115/90

76/76

83/83

97/97

70/86

75/90

75/95

85/105

200

80/60

85/65

95/70

110/85

69/69

76/76

78/78

88/88

62/78

65/85

70/85

75/95

If you doubt the correct choice of the crate step, then do it more often than recommended, but not to the detriment of light transmission.

Wood is usually used for sheathing if the wooden structure matches the style of the house.

The transparent coating is traditionally attached to a wooden crate with universal substrates.

But most often on light transparent roofs they gather metal frames from profiles white color in order to reduce the heating of the metal and, in connection with this, to avoid deformation of the transparent flooring.

It is better to use a metal roof structure, where the posts and crossbars are analogous to the rafters and lathing of the "standard" roof

Calculation and installation of a transparent roof (materials and tools)

Modern transparent roofing materials are strong enough, but they are easy to process: cutting and bending. Therefore, you can mount a roof that transmits light yourself.

You will also need fasteners: galvanized nails or self-tapping screws. They are calculated by the number of holes that are drilled in advance.

Before mounting the plastic, holes are made in the attachment points

Additionally you will need:

sealing rings, sealant;
connecting (end) elements;
drill, screwdriver;
tape measure, marker.

The process of assembling a transparent slate roof:

Video: preparation and step-by-step installation of polycarbonate

Some features of the installation of transparent materials:

it is necessary to ensure good ventilation of the under-roof space so that there is no excessive heating and accumulation of condensate. Therefore, it is undesirable to mount transparent materials directly on the rafters;
the coefficient of thermal expansion of the plastic flooring should be taken into account, therefore, the holes for fastenings are made 1–3 mm larger than the diameter of the self-tapping screws. This is important for polycarbonate slate;
Transparent slate should be laid without pressure and tension on the canvas
the steeper the roof slope, the lower the load on the sheets: in regions with heavy snow and precipitation, the angle of inclination should be at least 1:6 in an aspect ratio;
you need to use self-tapping screws with rubber washers or nails with anti-corrosion caps;
Profiled polycarbonate in a warehouse must be stored according to the rules in order to meet its qualities during installation work

Sealing transparent elements

What is important to know when starting work on the construction of a transparent roof:

when installing a roof made of bending plastic, only the extreme sections of the sheets are sealed with a sealant (at the junction of the roof and load-bearing structures), and when working with double-glazed windows (and when combining a transparent window with another roofing material), sealant and sealant are laid in each connecting seam. For such joints, sealing tape and self-adhesive seals are used;
A glass insert in the metal tile roof adds lighting to the attic floor building
if the roof is large, then additional waterproofing with glass isolator is carried out: it overlaps and gently melts with a blowtorch.
A large-sized double-glazed roof needs proper installation, reliable fastening and good sealing.

Before laying the glass isol, it is necessary to securely fix the transparent structure with truss system or the wall of the house.

Video: installing a sealant, sealing double-glazed windows on the roof

Mounting errors

A frivolous approach to self-construction a transparent roof can end in failure. Therefore, you should not hope for a chance, but you must strictly follow the recommendations of manufacturers, listen to the advice of specialists and comply with the regulations so that after 2–3 years you do not have to redo the roof for reasons that could have been avoided.

The main mistakes made while working with a transparent roof:

the angle of inclination is not maintained;
cover sheets are laid crookedly;
the step of the lathing and rafters was mistakenly chosen for the type of flooring used;
joints are poorly sealed;
insufficient ventilation of the under-roof space is not provided;
incorrect fastening of the flooring - too tight (when expanding, thin sheet material may burst) or weak (an imbalance of the roof and leakage will appear).

If the storage conditions of the plastic material were not initially observed, then its strength by the time of installation work may be reduced. Which will also affect the quality of the overall design.

Video: errors when installing polycarbonate (part 1)

Features of the operation of a transparent roof

To ensure safety in a room with a transparent roof, it is important to choose for installation reliable material corresponding to the main purpose of the building.

Attractive and stylish design during operation will require increased attention:

Repair of transparent roofing

The service life of a translucent structure depends on the quality of the selected material. Usually manufacturers give a guarantee for 10-20 years, but subject to proper installation, use of original fasteners and compliance with operating rules. Otherwise, the repair of the coating (or its complete replacement) cannot be avoided.

Repair of transparent roofs usually comes down to replacing worn-out components: sealing rubber, sealing tapes, thick sealant, as well as tightening loose fasteners. Local restoration includes:

replacement of individual damaged flooring sheets;
cleaning of drainage channels;
cleaning, grinding and painting of the metal frame;
sealing joints and junctions;
replacement of fittings and elimination of leaks.

Video: changing polycarbonate on the roof (part 2)

Elimination of leaks is carried out in the following order:

Problematic or suspicious places are revealed.
The drainage system is completely cleaned.
Remaining old sealant is removed and double sealed (eg with DowCorning Structural Glazing Sealant).
Butyl tape is glued on top.
Adjunctions, clamps and decorative plugs are installed back, and if necessary, replaced with new ones.

Video: tie-in into the roof of a small section of double-glazed windows

A transparent roof is an original constructive solution. It will become the highlight of the house, attracting attention. Large light-transmitting areas of the ceiling will make the interior bright and give a feeling of spaciousness and freedom. In addition, they will significantly save on energy resources, which is very important in our time. Installing a transparent roof is difficult, but the result is worth it.

Roof installation is the final and most difficult stage in the construction of a building or extension to a house. Therefore, the installation of a transparent roof for a terrace requires from the home master not only the ability to freely handle the tool, but also an extremely responsible attitude to the performance of the required calculations and the preparation of materials.

Terraces and gazebos are modern outbuildings designed to organize comfortable rest and relaxation of the household in a private home. To increase comfort and give the terrace a more sophisticated appearance, its roof is often made of transparent materials.

Advantages of translucent roofing:

ease of installation of the structure and, if necessary, dismantling;
lightness and strength of the coating;
maximum illumination of the premises of the summer building with natural light;
simple and uncomplicated work on cleaning the flooring from dirt and moisture;
nice appearance.

AT modern construction use one of the following types of transparent roofing materials:

Polycarbonate plastic (polycarbonate) - due to its chemical structure, it has a high light transmission, reaching 92%, it is impact resistant in combination with low weight.
Glass or ready-made double-glazed windows are a rather rare solution due to the complexity of the installation and the high cost of the material and components. It has the highest possible light transmission.

Expert opinion

Sergey Yurievich

Ask an expert

The most rational and practical solution would be a transparent roof for a polycarbonate terrace, the installation of which can be done by hand.

Types of polycarbonate material

This type of building canvas is available in several versions:

Cellular. It has an internal cellular structure, so the roof for the terrace will be light in weight, but superior in thermal insulation properties to other types of plastic.
With profiled surface. It is distinguished by a wavy surface structure, made in the form of a semicircular or trapezoidal profile. In conditions of a small slope, it increases the outflow of water.
Monolithic execution. Smooth and transparent sheets have an increased density, and hence strength, therefore they are used as flooring in regions with heavy precipitation.

Preparing for the arrangement of the terrace roof

Reliable and high-quality installation of the structure can be ensured using special fasteners designed to connect polycarbonate material with load-bearing structures various types. Selection professional tools and components guarantees durability and attractive appearance of the structure.

For the production of work you will need:

connecting profiles - end, U-shaped, H-shaped (one-piece);
corner profiles;
a set of ridge profiles;
guide profiles for fastening material to wall surfaces.

Expert opinion

Sergey Yurievich

Construction of houses, outbuildings, terraces and verandas.

Ask an expert

The design solution involves the use of transparent and colored fixing elements for installing cellular polycarbonate.

Features of fastening polymer sheets

Fasteners are made with self-tapping screws, equipped with special thermal washers or rubber seals that prevent the penetration of moisture into the holes. With a polycarbonate thickness of 6-10 mm, self-tapping screws 4-5 cm long are used.

A practical solution would be to use a special thermal washer with a foot for attaching thick polymer plates. In this case, pre-drilling of pinholes is performed with a step of 40-50 cm and a diameter exceeding the diameter of the self-tapping screws by 2-3 mm.

The design of the thermal washer with a leg provides a closer fit to the work sheet. In addition, such thermal washers are equipped with original latches that reliably protect the fixing screw from water.

Expert opinion

Sergey Yurievich

Construction of houses, outbuildings, terraces and verandas.

Ask an expert

For fastening a polymer sheet to a metal profile use only galvanized screws with a press washer and a drill-shaped tip.

If a wooden truss frame is erected on the terrace, then the transparent material is attached using steel or aluminum profiles. However, the use of galvanized self-tapping screws is most preferable here.

Do-it-yourself installation of a transparent roof on the terrace

Expert opinion

Sergey Yurievich

Construction of houses, outbuildings, terraces and verandas.

Ask an expert

When mounting polypropylene sheets, it is forbidden to use rigid fastening, as well as to exclude the use of nails, rivets and staples. Screwing in screws should be done without additional effort and pressure.

Monolithic smooth polycarbonate differs perfectly flat surface and various thicknesses. As an option, there is also a monolithic corrugated type with its inherent wave-like or tiled structure. The fastening of such sheets does not cause difficulties, and general technology arranging a transparent roof for a veranda is performed in the following way:

Fabrication and preparation of elements of the truss frame. The profiles are cut in accordance with the calculations made, their surfaces are treated with antiseptic agents or paint.
Rafters are attached to the finished upper trim of the structure, maintaining a given angle (5-10 °). The most suitable tools are a screwdriver and self-tapping screws.
Next, they proceed to cutting polycarbonate sheets, the dimensions of which are calculated based on the step width of the truss elements. Make sure that the joints of the sheets are located in the middle of the support beams with an overlap of 1-1.5 cm, and when laying the plastic stiffeners, they rush in the direction of the roof slope. At the attachment points, holes are prepared at a distance of 30-40 cm from each other, the dimensions of which should exceed the diameter of the self-tapping screws by 2-3 mm.
The extreme rafter leg acts as a guide element, to which the end profile is attached and the installation of the first sheet of plastic begins.
For mounting polycarbonate to the frame, only galvanized self-tapping screws are used, which are not susceptible to corrosion and salts. Each self-tapping screw is equipped with a thermal washer or rubber seal to protect openings from moisture.
Sealing and fastening of sheets at the joints on rafter leg produced by means of an end profile.
After installation is completed, all polycarbonate overlaps are filled with sealant.

Features of mounting cellular polycarbonate

The fastening of the material with a honeycomb structure is carried out with more care and additional operations:

the factory film is removed only after completion of work;
sheets with ultraviolet protection are turned to the sun with the corresponding side;
polymer sheets are placed in honeycombs downwards;
polycarbonate sheets are connected to each other using detachable or one-piece H-shaped profiles;
open edges of the canvases are completed with U-shaped plastic profiles;
it is recommended to use finely porous flexible tapes for sealing the ends of the elements.

Design solutions

Constructions from polymer plastic can be given different kind sometimes even quite unusual and exclusive. In this case, the shape of the roof is determined by the complexity of the construction of the truss frame:

Flat roof. The slope level does not exceed 1-2°. It is carried out in places where there is heavy snowfall. The thickness of the plastic is chosen at least 10 mm. Ideal for small terraces and verandas.
Pitched. Single or gable roofing is carried out at an angle of up to 40 °. The low weight of the polymer allows you to experiment with any slope settings.
Arched. For the original curved design, honeycomb carbonate is suitable, which is easily deformable. flexible sheets malleable in the hands of a master who can bring to life any original idea. In this case, only metal profiles are used.
Dome. During its construction, honeycomb material is also used, which has increased flexibility. The creation of a dome is hampered by the complexity of careful calculation and fitting of the supporting elements of the roof.

Adhering to the technology described above, you can make a transparent roof for the terrace with your own hands correctly and with minimal cost. The low cost of polycarbonate allows you to use it for all adjoining buildings - verandas, gazebos, makeshift garages and playgrounds.

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