Lightweight, affordable polycarbonate is becoming an increasingly popular choice for sunroom roofs, but there are also plenty of situations where the clarity and durability of glass are helpful. The best type of material for your sunroom roof will depend on many factors. In this guide, we’ll examine a few of the key differences between these materials so you can make the right decision for your needs.
What’s the Difference between Polycarbonate and Tempered Glass?
Polycarbonate is a type of thermoplastic polymer. It’s technically a type of plastic, but it’s much stronger than standard plastic. Tempered glass is a type of glass that’s been treated with heat to make it stronger and less likely to break into dangerous shards.
Is Polycarbonate or Tempered Glass More Affordable?
Polycarbonate has a reputation for being very budget friendly. It’s roughly 30 to 50 percent cheaper than tempered glass. This is because polycarbonate is easy to produce and easier to install. Since it’s so lightweight, its structural needs are much simpler.
Do You Get a Better View with Polycarbonate or Tempered Glass?
Both of these materials are clear, but tempered glass has unmatched clarity. When you look through tempered glass, you can see a view without any haze or discoloration. Since tempered glass is so resistant to scratching or UV degradation, it tends to maintain its clarity for years.
Does Polycarbonate or Tempered Glass Perform Better in the Heat?
The answer to this question relies on what type of heat performance you prioritize. Polycarbonate has a higher heat resistance than tempered glass overall. When exposed to strong UV rays, it won’t absorb or transfer much heat. Therefore, polycarbonate is ideal when you want to keep your San Diego sunroom cool. However, if you like a sunroom’s ability to absorb ambient heat and release it into your home, tempered glass can work better. Since it’s so clear, it allows more warm sun to enter your home.
If you’re ready to enhance your home with a beautifully crafted space, trust RKC Construction to design and install the type of premium sunroom San Diego County homeowners love. Since 2004, our locally owned and licensed team has been a trusted installer of four-season sunrooms, offering energy-efficient vinyl windows, insulated roofs, and custom layouts built to last in this coastal climate. Schedule your free in‐home or virtual consultation today and let RKC Construction help you turn your indoor-outdoor dream into a reality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are polycarbonate and tempered glass your only options?
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There are some other options available for sunroom roofs, such as acrylics, but polycarbonate and tempered glass remain the most popular choices.
Is polycarbonate or tempered glass more durable?
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Polycarbonate is very weather resistant and easier to clean. However, tempered glass maintains its clarity for much longer and is less likely to scratch.
How do you choose between polycarbonate and tempered glass?
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The best choice for you is entirely reliant on your personal preferences. If you like a traditional look that lets in a lot of light, tempered glass is great, but if you want the most affordable sunroom possible, polycarbonate is ideal.
Is polycarbonate or tempered glass more popular?
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Tempered glass is a little more common simply because it’s traditional, but the number of sunrooms that use polycarbonate is on the rise.
