Polycarbonate sheets require unique maintenance practices different from those of ordinary greenhouse roofing solutions. Proper care and maintenance for your greenhouse polycarbonate sheets is vital to ensure they maintain durability, beauty, and functionality.
Cleaning your polycarbonate roofing panels can be challenging at times due to the care and precision required. Understanding how to clean polycarbonate sheets goes a long way in preventing damages on your greenhouse roof during the cleaning process.
In this article, we will discuss the care and maintenance practices for your polycarbonate sheets as well as the common mistakes to avoid when cleaning your polycarbonate sheets.
What are the Common Polycarbonate Sheet Maintenance Practices?
Most greenhouse roofs are made of polycarbonate sheets due to their strength and clarity. As such, the plants inside the greenhouse receive sufficient natural light and are shielded against harsh environmental conditions.
However, dirt and debris can accumulate over time, reducing the amount of light and heat getting inside the greenhouse. Additionally, the accumulated debris may compromise the structural integrity of the roof making it less durable.
Scratches and markings may also occur on the polycarbonate sheets’ surface and reduce the overall aesthetic appeal of your greenhouse.
You will need to change your polycarbonate sheets regularly if you lack an effective maintenance routine.
Some of the most common polycarbonate maintenance practices include:
· Removing Solid Dirt and Debris
Strong winds carry and deposit sand and other debris on your greenhouse’s roof. As such, your polycarbonate sheets lose their functionality over time, especially when organic debris starts decomposing.
You need to use soft cloths to remove mild dust particles and reduce further buildup. Additionally, you can use an air blower in case of a significantly large greenhouse roof.
However, you should avoid using pressure-washing your polycarbonate greenhouse panels. Instead, use a gentle hose spray if you need to use water.
· Correcting Scratches
Scratches on your polycarbonate roof can have catastrophic consequences over time. As a result of fluctuating heating and cooling, the scratches develop into mild cracks. The cracks will eventually lead to the roof’s structural failure.
To correct scratches on your polycarbonate roofing sheets, use a mild abrasive cleaner. Basically, it would be best to apply the abrasive cleaner using a soft cloth in a circular motion then rinse off the roof with clean water.
It is not uncommon for greenhouse owners to use polishing kits to remove the scratches on the roofing sheets. The polishing kits are specially designed to work on plexiglass and plastics. Different polishing kits have different application methods, so you will need to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when using them.
· Cleaning Your Polycarbonate Sheets
The best way to clean your polycarbonate roofing sheets is following a three-stage process.
First, get some lukewarm water and a mild detergent to give the roof its initial wash. The first wash will help remove most of the surface dirt; the mild detergent will assist in removing the stubborn stains. Avoid strong soaps and detergents in order to prevent damaging the surface of the sheets.
Secondly, rinse off your greenhouse polycarbonate roof with warm water to remove the soapy water. Rinsing your greenhouse roof with warm water allows you to spot stubborn stain that may require a solvent. In case you need one, acetone is always a great solvent to have around.
Finally, rinse off the solvent and any other remaining debris with clean water. By now, your greenhouse polycarbonate roofing sheets should be squeaky clean. Wipe the sheets’ surface with a dry soft cloth to prevent formation of drying marks; the soft cloth also helps prevent scratches on your roofing sheets.
What are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Greenhouse Polycarbonate Roofing Sheets?
Some cleaning routines and practices could inflict significant damages to your roof. Using abrasive materials such as scrappers to remove stubborn stains causes scratches, compromising the structural integrity of the polycarbonate panels.
In addition, insufficient rinsing after cleaning leaves cleaning detergent deposits on your polycarbonate sheets. Over time, the detergents react with the sheets especially when working with strong cleaning agents.
Conclusion
The lifespan and functionality of your greenhouse polycarbonate roofing sheets depends on how well you maintain them. Observe the maintenance practices discussed above to ensure your polycarbonate sheets remain attractive and fully functional.
