Polycarbonate roofing for patios and carports: what to know before you buy

Polycarbonate roofing is a popular choice for patios, pergolas, verandahs and carports because it lets daylight in while keeping the rain out. A few choices make the difference between a bright, comfortable space and a hot or noisy one.

Why choose polycarbonate roofing?

• It lets natural light into outdoor areas that would otherwise be dark.
• It is lightweight and impact resistant.
• Good sheeting blocks harmful UV rays.
• It suits patios, pergolas, verandahs, carports, walkways and covered entries.

Clear or tinted?

Clear sheets let in the most light, which suits a shaded or south-facing area. Tinted sheets reduce glare and heat, which suits an area that gets strong afternoon sun. If you are not sure, ask for a sample sheet to hold up against the space.

Things to check before you buy

• UV protection: choose sheeting with UV protection so it does not yellow or become brittle.
• Noise: polycarbonate is louder in heavy rain than a solid steel roof.
• Heat: a fully clear roof over a north- or west-facing area can get warm, so consider tint, ventilation or a solid section.
• Movement: sheets expand and contract with temperature and must be fixed with room to move.
• Council requirements: a new patio, pergola or carport can need a permit, so check before you build.

Polycarbonate or a solid COLORBOND® roof?

Many homes use both: a solid COLORBOND® roof over part of an outdoor area for shade and quiet, and polycarbonate over the rest for light. The best mix depends on how the space faces and how you use it.

Polycarbonate roofing in Melbourne

See our polycarbonate and clear roofing installations service, or read our guide to choosing the right roofing material.

Get advice from Melbourne’s roofing experts

D Steel Roofing looks after polycarbonate and clear roofing, COLORBOND® roofing and roof plumbing across Melbourne, Keilor, Sunshine, Pascoe Vale, Gisborne, Greenvale, Sunbury, Melton, and the Macedon Ranges. Visit our services to learn more, browse our projects for inspiration, or get in touch for a free quote & 10% off on your next roofing project.