When it comes to cladding an external roof, many people struggle with the selection of the material. It is common for people to search; Can I use plastic cladding on an external roof.
The simplest answer to this question is yes, you can use plastic cladding on an external roof. However, it depends on the type of plastic, roof design, and local building regulations. Without considering these factors, you can’t finalise whether you can use this type of cladding on your external roof or not.
In this blog, our goal is to educate you about what this type of cladding is, what types of plastic you can use, and what benefits as well as drawbacks you may face. By reading this blog, you will have a clear idea of whether you can use plastic cladding on an external roof or not.
What is Plastic Cladding for Roofs?
These are synthetic panels or sheets made from different types of plastic. The main purpose of plastic claddings is to cover and protect your roofing structure. These claddings will work as a barrier against weather problems and keep the original structure safe.
Plastic claddings can be a perfect option when you are interested in a versatile solution for the roof’s protection. The lightweight claddings will not impact your property’s worth and keep you safe as well.
From residential buildings to greenhouses and industrial sheds, plastic claddings are widely used in the UK. It is because these claddings transmit light and have no structural load over the roof.
Unlike other claddings like metal cladding or tile roofs, it will be easy for you to handle plastic claddings on your own. You may not need to get a professional for minor repairs of such claddings or the replacement of particular sections.
We know that many people are unaware of the common materials used in plastic claddings. Below are the three main types of plastic cladding materials used for external roofs:
Polycarbonate
These roofing sheets are particularly known for their exceptional strength, clarity, and resistance properties. Using these plastic claddings, you can get natural light under these sheets. These sheets will enable you to get light without harmful UV rays, which will keep the people safe.
PVC
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is another type of plastic that is widely used in plastic claddings. These are lightweight claddings with cost-effectiveness. It is right to say that PVC claddings will be a perfect option for you when you are interested in getting an affordable roofing solution.
FRP
Are you looking for a flexible plastic option? You must consider choosing FRP or Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic. It is not only suitable because of its flexibility, but the strength of fibreglass also makes it a perfect option.
These plastic claddings are highly resistant to corrosion, which makes them the best option for industrial properties.
Advantages of Using Plastic Cladding on External Roofs
So far, you have read about the plastic claddings and materials used for manufacturing them. It is time to understand the benefits that you will get by installing plastic cladding on an external roof.
This type of cladding has multiple advantages that make it better than other cladding types. For example, their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and lightweight properties will make them far better than other claddings.
Here, we have listed a few major advantages that you will get by using plastic claddings on your roofs.
- Lightweight and Easy to Install: They can be installed on any roof because of their lightweight. It reduces structural support requirements and speeds up installation.
- Durable and Weather-Resistant: Plastic claddings are long-lasting and highly resistant to weather conditions. They perform well against rain, UV exposure, and varying temperatures.
- Energy Efficient: These claddings allow natural light to pass through, which reduces daytime lighting costs. It means that you may not need heavy energy sources to lighten up your place when sunlight passes through these claddings.
- Low Maintenance: Plastic claddings require minimal cleaning and upkeep compared to metal or tile roofs. Moreover, you may not need to worry about additional service charges from professionals.
Disadvantages of Using Plastic Cladding on External Roofs
In addition to benefits, plastic claddings also have some drawbacks that you should be familiar with. It is good to understand them to ensure that you are choosing the right type of cladding.
By keeping them in your mind, you can feel safe as well as protect your property. Let us share some potential disadvantages which you should know before installing plastic claddings on an external roof.
- Susceptible to Heat Damage: Plastic claddings can be damaged with continuous exposure to high temperatures. This exposure may cause warping or softening in the sheets, which in turn impacts the original structure of your roof.
- Limited Fire Resistance: Many plastics are combustible unless specially treated. It means that plastic claddings can burn immediately in case of any fire issues.
- Thermal Expansion Issues: Plastic panels may expand or contract with thermal impact, which demands careful installation.
- UV Degradation: Low-quality plastic materials can become brittle or discoloured under sunlight.
Final Wrapping
From this blog, you have learned whether you can use plastic claddings on an external roof or not. We have discussed all those conditions in which you will find them suitable. Along with this, we have shared a brief overview of all plastic materials that can be used in such claddings.
To ensure that you are selecting the right type of cladding, we have discussed the benefits as well as drawbacks of these cladding types. Now, it is up to you whether you install this type of cladding or any other.
We also recommend that you consult with a professional roofer before installing them or hire them for proper installation of plastic claddings.