Polycarbonate is the perfect alternative if you are looking for an insulating glass replacement for your heated conservatory, patio cover or garden greenhouse. Polycarbonate is also a great choice, as secondary glazing or a boat window, especially if it has to be vandal-proof! If you are a pub owner looking for a vandalism-proof solution, because you have seen yet another brick flying through the window of your pub, then polycarbonate is for you. In this blog, we will tell you more about the insulation value of polycarbonate and how you can benefit from it.
Thermal conductivity coefficiency of polycarbonate
To determine the insulation value of polycarbonate sheets, we look at the thermal conductivity coefficient. This is also called thermal conductivity and denoted by the lambda value symbol: λ. The lambda value indicates how much energy (in watts) passes through a 1 m2 surface with a thickness of 1 m, per degree Kelvin or Celcius temperature difference between both sides of the surface. Polycarbonate has a thermal conductivity of 0.20 W/(k.m). With single glass, that conductivity is 0.80 W/(k.m). Keep the following in mind: the lower the conductivity of a plastic or glass type, the better the product insulates.
Useful to know
The λ-value indicates the thermal conductivity of the material itself. The thickness of the polycarbonate sheet is not included in this calculation. This means that if the material has a higher λ-value than another plastic, you can still achieve the same insulation value with a thicker sheet.
Insulation value of polycarbonate vs glass
Because of polycarbonate’s insulation value, the material is ideal for use as secondary glazing. The big advantage of polycarbonate secondary glazing is that it is relatively cheap compared to double glazing. By fitting polycarbonate over your existing glass, you create stagnant air which provides insulation and soundproofing.
The insulation value of polycarbonate secondary glazing is somewhat lower than that of double glazing, but this is also reflected in the price. You can also create secondary glazing that is vandal-proof. No one can break through polycarbonate secondary glazing. Useful if you need a burglar-proof window for your shed, for example. Another advantage is that polycarbonate is heat-resistant and therefore also suitable for security applications.
Insulation value of polycarbonate vs Acrylic
The thermal conductivity coefficient of acrylic is 0.19 W/(k.m). This means that the insulation value of acrylic is comparable to the insulation value of polycarbonate. If you simply want to install a secondary glazing in the shed, clear acrylic (cast) will do just fine. However, if you are going to use the material in places where vandalism occurs, it is better to choose polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is also very suitable for a safe garden greenhouse. Thanks to polycarbonate’s great insulation value, the greenhouse growing season will also be extended.
Ordering polycarbonate online
Are you going to use clear polycarbonate as secondary glazing for your greenhouse, or do you have another beautiful project with polycarbonate in mind? In our webshop, you will find a wide range of polycarbonate in various sizes, colours and thicknesses. We cut all sheets to size in any desired shape. Do you have any questions about our products? Feel free to contact us on 0122-3976701 or send us an email at info@plasticsheetsshopco.uk.
