Garden features can be an absolute delight and a major contributor to a home’s character and personality. More than that, they can be an element of many happy memories. In the past, they were a preserve only of the very wealthy. But just as technological improvements in so many fields have caused what was once the sole domain of the elite to become available to the masses, so too with garden features.
Polycarbonate Sheeting
The improvement in question is polycarbonate sheeting, especially the 16mm polycarbonate sheets. It’s ideal for all kinds of garden features smaller than a greenhouse. It’s also both cost-effective, making it more viable in the short term, and easy to maintain, reducing long term expenses.
What else makes polycarbonate sheeting so useful? For one, it’s extremely durable, being nearly 200 times more durable than glass of the same thickness. In addition, triplewall polycarbonate sheeting is made up of three thin layers of polycarbonate separated by empty “chambers” of air. This means that a triplewall polycarbonate sheet is almost like a triple glazing solution in one sheet, for insulation purposes. Of course, polycarbonate sheeting is also waterproof, making it totally appropriate for roofing purposes.
In addition, polycarbonate sheets are available in many different appearances. Whether you want a contemporary feel with clear sheets or a retro touch with tinted ones, you can find polycarbonate sheets that will look just right. In addition, since polycarbonate sheeting is flat instead of wavy like corrugated sheets, it can provide a much more appealing profile.
When it comes to installation, polycarbonate is a cinch. It’s half as heavy as glass despite being more durable, and those hollow triplewall polycarbonate sheets are even lighter. Some companies also make dedicated glazing bars for polycarbonate. This makes installing polycarbonate sheeting very easy compared to some other roofing options.
Garden Features
Pergolas and arbours are a very versatile garden feature. A pergola is a shaded walkway where columns support a series of beams that themselves host vines and climbing flowers. Polycarbonate sheeting can be used to provide a more even shade and reduce glare, especially if it is tinted. Arbours are a pergola that also features benches or seats. They can also benefit from even shade from sheeting.
Gazebos and summer houses are more dedicated structures. They are small independent buildings wonderful for hosting guests, having tea, and playing board and card games. Again, triplewall polycarbonate sheeting is a great choice both in terms of aesthetics and insulation. If you want the opportunity to use your summer house in winter as well, polycarbonate sheeting will be a tremendous help.
Finally, triplewall polycarbonate is also an ideal choice for roofing a lean-to. Lean-tos are open structures that lean against a wall or walls of a house. They can vary from providing shade to a patio or decking to protecting part of your garden from rain. Since they have a single pitched roof, they’re perfect for polycarbonate sheeting. Even smaller houses can really be improved by a lean-to.
