Polycarbonate Installation Systems:
Plastic vs. Aluminum
When building or upgrading a greenhouse, choosing the right polycarbonate installation system makes all the difference. We offer both plastic connector profiles and aluminum glazing systems to help you securely install polycarbonate panels while maintaining a professional, weather-tight finish. Each option is durable, long-lasting, and suited for different project types and budgets.
Plastic Polycarbonate Connector Systems
Plastic H Profiles
1-piece and 2-piece options
The plastic H profile joins polycarbonate panels side by side, providing a simple, cost-effective way to connect sheets. These profiles can be used with all panel thicknesses we carry and are ideal for DIY greenhouse construction or other light framing projects.
Installed H Profile
Plastic U Profiles
The plastic U profile caps off the top and bottom edges of polycarbonate sheets, creating a clean, finished look. It also protects panel ends from moisture, dirt, and UV exposure, extending the lifespan of your greenhouse panels.
For best performance, we recommend drilling small “wicking” holes along the lower U profile after installation. This allows condensation to drain from the internal channels, keeping your panels clear and dry.
Screws and Fasteners
When installing polycarbonate, it’s important to use EPDM-coated screws with large washers. These create a weather-tight seal and are available for both wood and metal frameworks. Proper fastening ensures the panels stay secure during high winds or heavy snow loads.
Top Sealing and Vent Tape
To maximize the life of your polycarbonate greenhouse panels, apply aluminum top sealing tape and bottom vent tape before placing the U profiles. This step prevents dust, moisture, and insects from entering the panel channels while still allowing trapped condensation to vent properly.
Aluminum Glazing Systems
Aluminum Bar and Cap System
Our aluminum bar and cap system provides a professional-grade method for securing polycarbonate panels up to 8mm thick. This two-part glazing system includes:
- Aluminum Bar: Attaches directly to trusses or studs on your structure.
- Aluminum Cap: Fits over the polycarbonate sheets and fastens into the bar, clamping the panels firmly in place.
This system slightly raises the panels above the frame, so EPDM washers should be used for any fastening points outside of the bar-and-cap area (such as purlins). The aluminum system offers excellent strength, ideal for commercial greenhouses or high-wind environments.
Bar and cap system (left), EPDM washer installation (right)
Aluminum U Profiles
The aluminum U profile functions the same way as the plastic version—capping and sealing the top and bottom edges of polycarbonate panels. It offers extra rigidity and a polished appearance, especially suited for greenhouse roof edges and other exposed areas.
Additional Greenhouse Components
In addition to the main polycarbonate connectors (H profiles or bar and cap systems) and U profiles, we offer a variety of trim pieces to complete your project:
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Aluminum Corner Trim - For clean, finished corners on greenhouses or outbuildings.
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Plastic R Angle Profiles - Used to create ridge caps along greenhouse roofs.
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Plastic F Profiles - Helpful for creating drip edges or finishing panel terminations.
Help & Support
Our experienced team is always ready to assist with polycarbonate installation planning or greenhouse construction advice. We can walk you through the building process, prepare a custom materials quote, and make sure you have every part needed for a successful installation.
Need help designing your greenhouse or choosing the right polycarbonate system? Contact one of our sales representatives today. We’re happy to help you find the perfect solution for your project.
