Solid and hollow polycarbonate sheets are the two most common types, but their performance and application scenarios are quite different. Choosing the right type directly affects project effect and cost.
Solid polycarbonate sheet is a single-layer flat panel with high transparency, ultra-high impact resistance, and rigidity. It is almost unbreakable and is mainly used for safety glazing, bank barriers, machine guards, balcony enclosures, and applications requiring high strength. Its advantages are maximum strength, good light transmittance, and thin thickness. Disadvantages are relatively higher price and poor thermal insulation compared to hollow sheets.
Hollow polycarbonate sheet has a multi-layer hollow structure, lightweight, good thermal insulation, and low cost. It is the first choice for roofing, canopies, carports, greenhouses, and noise barriers. Its advantages are excellent insulation, lightweight, cost-effective, and suitable for large-area applications. Disadvantages are lower strength than solid sheets and cannot be used for high-security applications.
For Southeast Asian users:
- If used for canopy, carport, greenhouse → choose hollow sheet
- If used for safety barrier, machine guard, balcony enclosure → choose solid sheet
- If used for skylight → both are available, hollow for insulation, solid for strength
Budget considerations: hollow sheets are cheaper per square meter, suitable for large-area projects. Solid sheets have better durability and safety, suitable for small-area high-standard applications.
In summary, there is no absolute better, only more suitable. Choose according to specific application, load requirements, insulation needs, and budget.
