Polycarbonate vs UPVC Roofing Sheets
Quick Answer
Polycarbonate sheets offer higher impact resistance and better natural light transmission (up to 90%), making them ideal for skylights and roof lights. UPVC sheets are more affordable, thermally cooler, and lower maintenance, suited for full roof replacement in industrial and commercial projects.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets | UPVC Roofing Sheets |
|---|---|---|
| Light Transmission | Up to 90% (clear grade) | Translucent / opaque options |
| Impact Resistance | Very high | Moderate |
| Thermal Insulation | Moderate | Better than bare metal |
| UV Resistance | Excellent (UV-protected grade) | Good |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent | Excellent |
| Lifespan | 10–15+ years (UV-protected) | 10–15+ years |
| Weight | Very light | Light |
| Maintenance | Low | Very low |
| Cost | Higher | Lower to moderate |
| Best For | Skylights, roof lights, canopies | Full roof replacement, corrosive environments |
Which Should You Choose?
Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets
High-impact, lightweight sheets that transmit natural light while providing UV protection and weather resistance. Commonly used for skylights, canopies, and industrial roof lights.
Choose this when
- You need natural daylight inside the building
- Impact resistance is a priority (e.g. hail-prone areas)
- You are adding roof lights into an existing metal roof
- Long service life with UV-protected sheets is required
UPVC Roofing Sheets
Durable plastic roofing sheets with high resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and UV exposure. Lower maintenance than metal, thermally cooler, and suitable for full roof replacement.
Choose this when
- You are replacing an existing metal or asbestos roof
- The site has chemical or corrosive exposure
- Budget is a priority and full light transmission is not needed
- Lower building temperature is important
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can polycarbonate and UPVC sheets be used on the same roof?
- Yes. Polycarbonate sheets are often used as roof lights within a UPVC or metal roof, replacing a proportion of the opaque sheets to bring in natural daylight.
- Which is more suitable for coastal areas?
- Both offer good corrosion resistance, but UPVC has a slight edge in heavily salt-laden environments since it contains no metal components that can corrode.
- Does UPVC get hotter than polycarbonate in summer?
- Not significantly. Both conduct less heat than bare metal. For serious thermal performance, insulated panel systems (PUF or EPS) are the better choice.
- Can I walk on polycarbonate or UPVC sheets?
- Neither sheet is designed for foot traffic. Maintenance access should always be via crawl boards placed over the purlins, not directly on the sheets.
Need help choosing the right roofing sheet?
Tell us your requirement and we'll recommend the right product with specifications and pricing.