...

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

Recommendation points



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

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

The latest developments in the field of construction appear almost daily, providing us with unlimited opportunities for the implementation of any design solutions. One of the original novelties is transparent roofing materials that create an additional light source and visually expand the space.

Depending on climatic conditions, light-transmitting roofs can be used in various designs:

  1. Winter gardens and greenhouses.
  2. Indoor pools.
  3. Home observatories (partial roof covering).
  4. Connecting galleries and transitions.
  5. Stadiums and Markets.

Types of transparent roofing materials

The classical glazing of the roof frame is practiced extremely rarely โ€“ sheet glass is a very fragile and traumatic material. Its modern counterparts are much more practical and reliable:

Plexiglass (acrylic glass, plexiglass)

The material, which is 5 times stronger than glass and at the same time twice lighter, protects against the effects of harmful ultraviolet radiation without losing color. Its increased resistance to negative environmental influences allows the use of plexiglass in complex structures: greenhouses, domed roofs, arched ceilings.

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

Polycarbonate (cellular and monolithic)

Has increased impact resistance. Monolithic polycarbonate is ideal for anti-vandal protective glazing and the creation of curved elements (bends under the influence of high temperatures). Cellular polycarbonate, due to its lightness, accessibility and wide range of colors, is used almost everywhere: in everyday life โ€“ for arranging greenhouses, canopies and awnings, in public buildings โ€“ for ceilings and galleries.

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

Corrugated PVC (transparent slate)

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

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

Profiled PVC sheet (transparent corrugated board)

It is a plastic analogue of a conventional metal profiled sheet, completely repeating its size and shape. Can be used as a wall material, as well as light-transmitting inserts in fences and fences.

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

Triplex (laminated glass)

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

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

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 rolled. Today, reinforced polyester is the most economical and easy-to-install transparent roofing material with the widest range of applications. In the construction industry, it is in demand for the construction of awnings, coverings for recreation areas, stadiums, and fencing. In agriculture โ€“ in the construction of greenhouses and livestock complexes.

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

Advantages and disadvantages of a transparent roof

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

  1. Limited use โ€“ not all types of roofs can be covered with transparent roofing materials.
  2. Psychological discomfort โ€“ most people need a sense of a โ€œmaterialโ€ roof over their heads.
  3. The high cost of the structure โ€“ calculations, frame, roofing materials and work can result in a tidy sum.
  4. The complexity of installation โ€“ due to the fragility of the material, all installation work must be done from the scaffolding.
  5. Low thermal protection โ€“ transparent plastic roofs are suitable only for warm regions.

For the sake of 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 โ€“ carports, summer cottages, 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
  • wide range of textures, colors and shapes
  • corrosion resistance
  • UV protection

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

When 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 scale of the proposed work. If you plan to install a large roof area, and you have no experience in construction, then it is better to seek help from professionals. Competent calculation of the permissible load, choice of frame material, determination of the optimal material and installation in accordance with all regulations will help to avoid unpleasant consequences.

DIY installation features โ€“ practical advice

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

  1. To equip the frame, you must choose the appropriate type of profiles:
    • in large spans โ€“ steel profile;
    • in medium bays โ€“ aluminum;
    • on small spans โ€“ PVC profile.
  2. Much attention should be paid to proper sealing: synthetic rubber is most often used to seal the frame, silicone waterproofing mastic or sealant is used for the joints and edges of the roof.
  3. We take into account the slope of the roof without fail: the steeper it is, the less load on the sheet.
  4. If additional thermal insulation is required, it is better to give preference to cellular polycarbonate or plexiglass.
  5. To avoid the accumulation of excessive condensation, it is necessary to ensure adequate ventilation of the entire room and especially the under-roof space..
  6. During installation, it is necessary to minimize the physical impact on the roof โ€“ it must not be stepped on.
  7. The protective coating (film) can be removed after installation is completed.

Transparent roof: the pros and cons of the original roof solution

A transparent roof, erected according to all the rules, will last from 15 to 50 years (depending on the chosen material). It is not picky to care for โ€“ dome structures are washed naturally in the rain; to clean other types of roof, a soft sponge and water and soap are enough.

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

Rate the article
( No ratings yet )
Recommender Great
Tips on any topic from experts
Comments: 2
  1. Marigold

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a transparent roof as opposed to a traditional one?

    Reply
  2. Skylar Reed

    What are some advantages and disadvantages of opting for a transparent roof solution? Is the increased natural light worth the potential lack of privacy and possible higher energy costs?

    Reply
Add comments