Polycarbonate Sheet Size and Price

Polycarbonate sheets are one of the most versatile and high-performance thermoplastic materials used in both commercial and industrial applications today. Thanks to their outstanding impact resistance, exceptional transparency, and thermal stability, polycarbonate sheets have rapidly replaced traditional materials like glass and acrylic in many fields. Whether used for skylights, greenhouse glazing, machine guards, or architectural facades, these sheets offer a unique blend of strength and flexibility.

Polycarbonate is a polymer composed of bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene. Though the name may sound complex, the resulting material is renowned for its excellent mechanical properties. For instance, it is virtually unbreakable, with up to 250 times the impact resistance of glass. Despite this strength, it is remarkably lightweight and easy to fabricate.

One of the major reasons for polycarbonate sheets’ popularity is their adaptability. They are available in various thicknesses, finishes, colors, and forms—including solid, multiwall, and corrugated sheets. This makes them suitable for a vast range of industries such as:

• Construction (roofing, skylights, wall partitions)
• Agriculture (greenhouse panels)
• Transportation (automobile components, windshields)
• Safety (bulletproof windows, riot shields)
• Retail and display (signage, displays)

Another crucial advantage is their resistance to UV rays when coated properly. UV-coated polycarbonate sheets can withstand long-term outdoor exposure without yellowing or degrading. Additionally, they maintain transparency and structure across a wide temperature range, typically from -40°C to 120°C.

Price and size are two of the most significant factors that buyers evaluate when sourcing polycarbonate sheets. Given the diversity of applications and material variants, understanding these two elements is essential for optimal material selection and cost control. Choosing the wrong thickness or paying above market price for standard sheets can lead to unnecessary expenditures or structural inefficiencies.

This comprehensive guide will delve into standard sheet sizes, price factors, selection strategies, and supplier evaluations to help you make informed purchasing decisions for polycarbonate sheets.

II. Standard Polycarbonate Sheet Sizes

When selecting polycarbonate sheets, size plays a pivotal role in both the cost-effectiveness and performance of the product. Manufacturers offer a wide range of size options to accommodate diverse application needs. In this section, we will explore the most common polycarbonate sheet sizes available on the market, along with their practical implications.

A. Thickness Options

Polycarbonate sheets come in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 1mm to over 20mm. The thickness impacts not only the strength and rigidity of the material but also its price and weight. Here’s an overview of common thickness categories:

• 1mm to 3mm: Ultra-thin sheets primarily used for signage, displays, and indoor applications where minimal impact resistance is required.
• 4mm to 6mm: Standard for lightweight roofing, small greenhouse panels, and safety glazing.
• 8mm to 10mm: Common in twin-wall and multiwall configurations, suitable for greenhouse walls, skylights, and moderate load-bearing roofing.
• 12mm to 16mm: Ideal for high-load applications, commercial construction, and heavy-duty protective barriers.
• 20mm and above: Used in bullet-resistant panels, soundproofing walls, and industrial-grade glazing.

Thicker sheets generally provide better insulation, sound resistance, and load capacity but come at a higher cost.

B. Standard Sheet Dimensions

Polycarbonate sheets are usually available in standard dimensions for easy handling and manufacturing consistency. These dimensions include:

• 1220mm x 2440mm (4ft x 8ft): The most common sheet size, compatible with general-purpose applications across multiple industries.
• 2050mm x 3050mm (6.7ft x 10ft): Frequently used in construction and commercial architectural installations.
• 2100mm x 5800mm: Suitable for large-span roofing and wall panel installations.
• Custom cut-to-size: Many suppliers offer sheets cut to specific measurements, allowing for precision use with minimal waste.

When planning your project, it’s crucial to consider standard sizes to reduce the cost of customization and material waste. Buying standard-sized sheets often results in faster delivery and lower prices.

C. Weight and Density Considerations

Weight is another important factor when selecting polycarbonate sheet sizes. Heavier sheets can be more difficult to install, especially at elevated heights or on delicate structures. Here is a general approximation of weight per square meter based on thickness (solid sheets):

• 2mm: 2.4 kg/m²
• 4mm: 4.8 kg/m²
• 6mm: 7.2 kg/m²
• 10mm: 12.0 kg/m²
• 16mm: 19.2 kg/m²

Multiwall and corrugated sheets are typically lighter due to their hollow structure. For example, a 10mm twin-wall sheet weighs approximately 1.7 kg/m².

D. Sheet Type and Size Correlation

Different types of polycarbonate sheets have varying size availabilities:

• Solid Sheets: Available in almost every standard size and cut-to-order format.
• Multiwall Sheets: Often supplied in longer lengths for roofing or facade purposes.
• Corrugated Sheets: Come in roll formats or fixed lengths with widths typically between 760mm and 1050mm.
• Embossed Sheets: Used for privacy glazing or decorative applications, usually available in 2mm to 6mm thickness.

E. Size Guide by Application

Here’s a quick reference chart showing typical sheet sizes used by application:

Application	Recommended Size	Type	Thickness (mm)
Greenhouse Roofing	2100mm x 5800mm	Twin-wall	6mm – 10mm
Residential Skylight	1220mm x 2440mm or custom	Solid/Embossed	4mm – 6mm
Safety Partition	1220mm x 2440mm	Solid	10mm – 12mm
Machine Guarding	Custom	Solid	6mm – 20mm
Sound Barriers	2050mm x 3050mm or custom	Solid	16mm – 25mm
Advertising Signage	1220mm x 2440mm	Solid/Embossed	2mm – 4mm

By aligning your material choices with standard sizes, you can significantly optimize both your project execution time and cost.

III. Factors Affecting Polycarbonate Sheet Prices

When evaluating the cost of polycarbonate sheets, it’s essential to understand the various elements that influence pricing. Whether you’re purchasing bulk quantities or custom sizes, the following factors will affect your overall expenditure:

A. Thickness and Type

The thicker the sheet, the more raw material is required—naturally driving up the cost. Similarly, solid polycarbonate sheets are generally more expensive than multiwall or corrugated types due to their density and strength.

B. Sheet Size and Customization

Standard sheet sizes typically offer better value. However, customized cuts or dimensions that deviate from manufacturer defaults often come with added labor and material waste costs.

C. UV Coating and Special Treatments

UV-resistant coatings, anti-fog layers, and anti-scratch treatments enhance performance but also raise the price. For outdoor applications, UV protection is often essential and worth the additional cost.

D. Brand and Manufacturer

Well-known brands may charge a premium for reliability, quality control, and warranty coverage. Local manufacturers or lesser-known brands might offer more competitive prices, but quality should be verified.

E. Market Supply and Raw Material Prices

Fluctuations in the cost of petroleum-based raw materials, transportation, and labor can affect the market price of polycarbonate sheets. Global supply chain issues or regional shortages may also cause price spikes.

F. Quantity and Bulk Discounts

Buying in larger quantities generally results in lower per-sheet pricing. Suppliers often offer bulk discounts for orders over a certain volume.

G. Geographic Location

Regional pricing varies due to transportation costs, import taxes, and local supply chains. For example, polycarbonate sheets in Southeast Asia may be cheaper than in Europe due to proximity to raw material sources.

Understanding these pricing variables allows for better budgeting and supplier negotiation.

IV. How to Choose the Right Polycarbonate Sheet

Selecting the appropriate polycarbonate sheet for your project involves considering several factors to ensure optimal performance and cost-effectiveness. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

A. Determine the Application Requirements

Identify the specific needs of your project:

• Impact Resistance: For applications requiring high durability, such as safety glazing or machine guards, opt for solid polycarbonate sheets with greater thickness.
• Insulation: For greenhouse panels or roofing, multiwall sheets provide better thermal insulation.
• Light Transmission: Clear sheets allow maximum light, while tinted or opal sheets reduce glare and heat.
• Aesthetics: Embossed or colored sheets can enhance visual appeal for decorative purposes.

B. Consider Environmental Factors

Assess the environmental conditions the sheets will be exposed to:

• UV Exposure: For outdoor applications, ensure the sheets have UV protection to prevent yellowing and degradation.
• Temperature Variations: Polycarbonate performs well in a wide temperature range, but extreme conditions may require specific grades.
• Weather Conditions: In areas prone to hail or heavy snow, thicker sheets offer better resistance.

C. Evaluate Structural Requirements

Understand the structural demands:

• Load-Bearing Capacity: Thicker sheets can support more weight, essential for roofing or structural applications.
• Flexibility: Thinner sheets are more flexible, suitable for curved surfaces or applications requiring bending.

D. Budget Constraints

Balance performance with cost:

• Standard Sizes: Opting for standard dimensions can reduce costs associated with custom cutting.
• Sheet Type: Multiwall sheets are generally more cost-effective than solid sheets for large areas.
• Bulk Purchasing: Buying in larger quantities often results in discounts.

V. Where to Buy Polycarbonate Sheets and Price Comparison

When sourcing polycarbonate sheets, it’s essential to consider reputable suppliers and compare prices to ensure value for money. Here’s an overview of some suppliers and their offerings:

A. Major Suppliers

When purchasing polycarbonate sheets, it’s advisable to source from specialized suppliers that offer a wide selection of sheet types, custom sizing, and reliable quality. Common types of polycarbonate sheets on the market include solid sheets, multiwall (twin-wall or honeycomb) panels, and corrugated panels. Prices typically vary based on sheet thickness, size, and functionality, ranging from as low as $10 to over $800 per sheet.

Polyflute polycarbonate panels, for example, are widely recognized for their excellent performance in applications such as greenhouses, awnings, skylights, and general construction. These panels are known for being lightweight, impact-resistant, weather-resistant, and thermally efficient. The Polyflute product range includes clear, frosted, white, and colored sheets, with thicknesses typically ranging from 4mm to 16mm to suit various structural needs. Multiwall or corrugated options are often sold in packs (e.g., 5-pack sets), starting at around $85, with prices increasing depending on specifications.

Many professional plastic sheet suppliers also provide custom cut-to-size services, allowing customers to order sheets that precisely match their project requirements. This reduces on-site cutting, minimizes material waste, and ensures faster installation. Some platforms also offer real-time online quoting tools, where customers can enter dimensions to instantly receive pricing and estimated shipping costs—making budget planning easier and more transparent.

When choosing polycarbonate sheets, it is highly recommended to opt for variants with UV protective coatings, especially for outdoor use. This feature significantly enhances the lifespan of the panels by maintaining clarity and mechanical strength even after prolonged exposure to sunlight.

B. Price Comparison

Prices for polycarbonate sheets vary based on type, thickness, and size. Here’s a general comparison:

Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary based on supplier and location.

VI. Conclusion

Polycarbonate sheets offer a versatile solution for various applications, from construction to agriculture. Understanding the different types, sizes, and factors affecting prices is crucial for selecting the right product for your needs. By considering application requirements, environmental factors, structural demands, and budget constraints, you can make an informed decision that ensures both performance and cost-efficiency.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it’s recommended to consult directly with suppliers or use online calculators provided by retailers to obtain quotes tailored to your specific project dimensions and requirements.