Polycarbonate Products
Since its inception in 1998, Solar Innovations®‘ designs custom structures, doors, and windows to accommodate several sizes of glass or polycarbonate as the glazing selection. Inn addition, our frames have been carefully developed to ensure the growing markets of polycarbonate skylights, polycarbonate sunrooms, and polycarbonate greenhouses can serve value engineered structures that will withstand the test of time.
Polycarbonate is a durable substance with many unique features and benefits. While this product has been on the market for years, there is currently a resurgence of polycarbonate use taking place in the building industry. Traditionally, polycarbonate was used as a glass replacement to drive down costs, but utilizing its aesthetic values and durable properties.
Lumira®Aerogel
Aerogel is among the lightest and most effective insulating materials in the world. Lumira® aerogel is a solid consisting largely of air (>90%) contained in a structure with pore sizes that are smaller than the space required for air molecules to travel through. This severely inhibits heat transfer through the material, enabling world-class performance. After it is added to the polycarbonate, the thermal transfer of heat and cold is greatly reduced, minimizing energy costs on installations.
Not only can Lumira® aerogel save energy and reduce CO2 emissions, it is also reusable when the building is decommissioned. Lumira® aerogel is safe for human and ecological systems, and is manufactured with little to no impact on the environment. Sustainable purchasing, optimum energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and low emissions, along with daylight and views, are possible points Lumira® can assist with for LEED certification. Interior spaces and rooms become quieter and user comfort levels increase with the assistance of Lumira® aerogel.
Benefits of Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is virtually indestructible. Bricks, as a result, will not break the polycarbonate. It’s an excellent choice for high traffic areas and high wind areas. Also, testing is complete for Florida Impact ratings.
| Benefits of Polycarbonate | Benefits of Glass | |
| Weight | Less than 1 lb/sq. ft. | 5 lbs. sq. ft. insulated |
| Light Control | Clear light transmittance: 80% | Clear light transmittance: 90% |
| Impact | Does not break upon impact | Breaks |
| U-Values | 20mm = .29 | 1.04 single pane |
Burn Ratings
Polycarbonate has various burn ratings, which are useful in commercial settings.
Light Weight
This correlates to reduce shipping costs and quicker installations. A sheet of 25mm polycarbonate weighs only .717lbs, much less than traditional building materials.
Design Flexibility
Polycarbonate is available in numerous colors including clear, opal, bronze, blue, and green. Solar forms panels to a specific radius for arched awnings or walkways. The physical appearance of polycarbonate lends itself to a modern style with smooth fronts.
Thickness
There are multiple thicknesses available, including 8mm, 25mm, and 60mm. Interior applications often utilize 8mm, exterior units use 25mm, and hurricane applications incorporate 60mm.
Diffused Daylight
As a result of direct sunlight entering a room or building can often cast glares. Polycarbonate diffuses the light it allows into the room. This is a valuable option for rooms with computer screens.
Sustainable Product
Because Polycarbonate is a plastic based product, it is recyclable. Certain product lines are even available with post-consumer recycled content.
Strength
10 times stronger than acrylic and 200 times stronger than glass.
Easily Transported
Due to its durability and light weight, the fabrication and transportation of polycarbonate can be much easier than glass.