FAQ's

Welcome to our FAQ, we are so happy to have you here and as a client.
We have tried to answer the most common questions.

Tools & Accessories

Below are some common questions about Tools & Accessories

What kinds of tools and accessories do you stock?

We stock glazing bars, F-profiles, U-channels, HP profiles, aluminium edge trims, fixing buttons, breather and foil tapes, silicone sealants and other items that make fitting plastic sheets quicker and easier.

How do I choose the right glazing bar or profile?

The starting point is the sheet type and thickness. For example, 10 mm multiwall sheets need 10 mm bars and matching U-channels. If you send us a quick sketch of your layout and tell us which sheet you’re using, we’ll suggest a full set of compatible profiles.

Why do I need breather tape and aluminium tape on multiwall sheets?

Breather tape at the lower edge lets moisture escape while keeping insects and dust out of the flutes. Aluminium tape at the top edge closes the flutes completely. This helps keep the sheets cleaner inside and reduces condensation problems over time.

Are your tools suitable for DIY as well as trade?

Yes. Our accessories are used by installers, but they’re also straightforward for confident DIY users. We choose items that work reliably with our sheet products and help you get a tidy finish.

Can I buy extra fixings or sealant if I run short?

Absolutely. Fixing buttons, tapes, glazing bars and silicone cartridges are all available separately, so you can top up what comes in a kit or order parts for a custom project.

Can you help me pick the right accessories for my project?

Yes. If you’re unsure what you need, get in touch with us by phone or through our contact page. Our team of plastic-sheet specialists can talk through your project and suggest a complete set of parts.

bsmart Collection

Below are some common questions about bsmart Collection

What is the bsmart collection?

The bsmart collection is our partnership range with a premium plastic sheet supplier. It focuses on higher-end sheets such as abrasion-resistant polycarbonate, cast and extruded acrylic, neon and opal acrylic, PETG and greenhouse panels, plus selected items like solid polycarbonate and extruded acrylic mirror within the bsmart sub-collection.

Which products sit directly under the bsmart collection tag?

Right now, the bsmart collection highlights:

  • Solid polycarbonate sheets
  • Extruded acrylic mirror sheets

These sit alongside our wider plastic-sheets range in the main menu.

When would I choose a bsmart solid polycarbonate sheet?

We suggest bsmart solid polycarbonate for demanding glazing jobs where you need clarity and very high impact resistance, for example security glazing, protective screens or industrial panels.

What can I do with extruded acrylic mirror?

Extruded acrylic mirror works well for point-of-sale units, interior features, dance or fitness studios, decorative panels and any area where you want a reflective surface without the weight and shatter risk of glass mirror.

Do bsmart sheets work with your usual accessories?

Yes. Bsmart sheets can be used with the same kinds of fixings, profiles and tapes that we supply for our other sheet products. If you are unsure which accessories to pick, just ask us and we’ll match them for you.

DIY Side Passage

Below are some common questions about DIY Side Passage

What is a side-passage roof?

A side-passage roof covers the space along the side of a house or wall, creating a dry walkway between front and back or a sheltered storage area. Our kits are long and relatively narrow to suit this kind of layout.

What’s included in a side-passage package?

Each package includes:

  • Clear multiwall polycarbonate sheets cut for the fall and length
  • Matching glazing bars
  • Edge profiles
  • Fixing buttons
  • Tapes and clear silicone

The sheets are cut, blown and taped, and the rest of the parts are matched to that configuration.

Can you adjust a kit if my passage is a different length or width?

Yes. The listed side-passage packages are guides based on typical houses. If your passage is shorter, longer or slightly wider, send us the measurements and we can adjust the sheet sizes and bar layout.

Will a polycarbonate side-passage roof be noisy in heavy rain?

Any hard roof will create some noise in heavy rain, but multiwall polycarbonate tends to soften the sound compared with bare metal sheets, and the hollow structure gives some sound dampening.

Can I add doors or screens at the ends?

Yes. Many customers close off one or both ends with acrylic or polycarbonate panels or doors to create a more enclosed space. We can supply matching sheet materials if you want to extend the cover like that.

DIY Lean-To

Below are some common questions about DIY Lean-To

What is a lean-to roof?

A lean-to roof has a single slope and is fixed to a main building on one side, slanting away from it. It’s a simple way to create a covered patio, utility area or carport along a wall.

What does a DIY lean-to package include?

A lean-to kit includes:

  • Clear multiwall polycarbonate sheets cut to the specified fall and length
  • Glazing bars
  • Edge profiles (F-profiles and U-channels)
  • Fixing buttons
  • Tapes and clear silicone sealant

So you have everything you need for the roof itself.

How do I read sizes like “3000mm (fall) x 4200mm (wide)”?

The first figure is the fall (distance from the wall down the slope). The second figure is the length along the wall. You’ll need enough space in both directions for the kit size you choose.

Can I trim the sheets on site?

You can carry out small trims with suitable tools, but we recommend using our cut-to-size service to get the main cuts done. That way you usually only need minor adjustments on site.

Are these kits suitable for DIY installation?

Many customers fit lean-to roofs themselves. The concept is straightforward, but it’s important to follow the guidance on rafter spacing and fixings and to build a safe, secure frame. Where loads are high or spans are large, a professional installer is a good idea.

DIY Free-Standing

Below are some common questions about DIY Free-Standing

What is a free-standing DIY package?

Our free-standing packages are based on a clear multiwall polycarbonate roof sitting on a pergola-style frame that stands on its own, rather than fixing straight to the house. They’re ideal for garden seating and outdoor dining areas.

Do you supply the posts and beams?

No. We supply the roofing sheets and glazing accessories. The posts, beams and main structure are supplied and built by you or your contractor.

Can I change the roof size if my pergola is different to the example kit?

Yes. The example sizes are popular layouts, but the multiwall sheets and accessories can be cut and adjusted for a custom frame. Share your frame dimensions and we’ll help you plan the roof.

Will the roof cope with Irish weather?

Our multiwall polycarbonate roofing is made for outdoor use, with UV protection and high impact strength. Fitted to a properly built frame with the right spacing, it stands up very well to wind and rain.

DIY Packages – Ready To Go

Below are some common questions about DIY Packages – Ready To Go

What is a DIY roofing package?

Our DIY packages are ready-made kits for popular roof layouts. Each one combines clear multiwall polycarbonate sheets with the glazing bars, edge profiles, fixings, tapes and sealant needed for that size and style of roof.

Do the packages include the timber or steel frame?

No. We supply the plastic roofing and accessories. You (or your builder) provide the supporting structure and fix it to your house, garden or other base.

What kinds of structures can I build with these kits?

The DIY range covers three main layouts:

  • Lean-to roofs fixed to a house or wall
  • Free-standing roofs for pergola-style structures
  • Long, narrow roofs for side passages

Each kit is based on multiwall polycarbonate roofing.

Are the panels in the kits taped and ready to go?

Yes. In line with our standard practice, panels in the DIY kits are cut, the flutes are blown clear, and the ends are taped with breather and aluminium tape, so they are ready to install.

Can you tweak a package if my sizes are slightly different?

Our listed kits are based on common roof sizes, but they are also a guide. If your project is a bit longer, shorter or deeper, let us know your measurements and we can adjust sheet cuts and accessories to suit.

I’m not sure whether a lean-to, free-standing or side-passage kit suits me. Can you help?

Of course. If you send us a rough sketch and a few photos, we can talk through the options and point you to the closest kit or a custom layout.

Clear Polycarbonate (Solid)

Below are some common questions about Clear Polycarbonate (Solid)

What is solid clear polycarbonate used for?

Solid polycarbonate is a flat, clear sheet with very high impact strength. It’s often used for safety glazing, machine guards, security screens, rooflights, canopies and similar jobs where you need clear panels that can take a knock.

How strong is it compared to glass?

Polycarbonate is far more impact-resistant than standard glass, while weighing less. That makes it well suited to exposed areas, busy workspaces and places where breakage would be a serious risk.

Does it have UV protection?

Yes. Our solid polycarbonate sheet is made from UV-stabilised resin and has UV protection on both sides, so it keeps its clarity and resists discolouration outdoors.

Can clear polycarbonate be curved?

You can cold-bend polycarbonate within the recommended radius, and it can also be formed with heat for tighter curves, domes and shaped panels. This gives you a lot of freedom for rooflights and special glazing details.

What thicknesses and sizes do you offer, and can you cut to size?

We offer a range of thicknesses (for example from around 2 mm up to heavier gauges for more demanding jobs) and standard sheet sizes. We then cut to size so you receive panels that suit your frame or opening.

Acrylic (Perspex) Sheets

Below are some common questions about Acrylic (Perspex) Sheets

What is multiwall polycarbonate, and why would I pick it instead of glass?

Multiwall polycarbonate is a hollow-core sheet that is light in weight, very tough and gives good insulation. It’s widely used for roofs, canopies, greenhouses and skylights as a practical alternative to glass.

What thickness should I choose?

A simple rule of thumb:

  • 10 mm – smaller lean-to roofs, canopies, side passages
  • 16 mm – patios, pergolas, carports
  • 25 mm – spots where extra insulation or stiffness is needed

Our multiwall guide and product pages show typical rafter spacing and uses for each thickness, and we’re happy to talk that through with you.

What sizes and colours do you supply?

We stock 10 mm, 16 mm and 25 mm multiwall sheets in standard panel sizes, with longer lengths (up to 6000–7000 mm) available on request. Clear panels are the main option, with other tints available on certain sizes.

Are the sheets UV protected, and which side faces the sun?

Yes. Our multiwall roofing sheets have a UV-protected surface. The label and datasheet show which face goes outwards; that side should face the sun to help prevent yellowing and surface damage over time.

Can you cut multiwall polycarbonate to size?

We can. Multiwall panels are cut to your measurements, the flutes are blown clear with compressed air, and the ends are taped with breather and aluminium tape unless you ask us not to. That means the sheets arrive ready for installation.

What extra parts do I need for a roof?

For a complete roof you’ll normally need glazing bars, U-channels or F-profiles, fixing buttons, tapes and clear silicone. You’ll find these in our accessories and tools collections, and we can help you match parts to your sheet type.

Multiwall Polycarbonate

Below are some common questions about Multiwall Polycarbonate

What is acrylic (Perspex), and where is it used?

Acrylic (often called Perspex or plexiglass) is a clear plastic sheet with high light transmission, good impact strength and strong UV stability. It’s a great choice for glazing, display panels, guards, screens and interior features.

Is acrylic suitable for outdoor use?

Yes. Our acrylic sheets are UV stable and can be used outdoors for signage, screens and canopies, provided they are fixed and supported correctly.

What’s the difference between cast and extruded acrylic?

Cast acrylic usually gives the best optical clarity and is ideal if you plan to machine, polish or fabricate more intricate pieces. Extruded acrylic is more economical and very consistent in thickness, which suits general glazing and cut-to-size panels.

Can I cut or drill acrylic sheets myself?

You can cut and drill acrylic with suitable blades and drill bits, but it needs care to avoid chipping or cracking. Many customers ask us to cut the sheets to size and then only do light trimming or drilling on site.

Do acrylic sheets come with a protective film?

Yes. Acrylic sheets are supplied with a thin protective film on one or both faces to help prevent scratching during transport and handling. You simply peel this off once your sheet is in place.

What colours and finishes are available?

In this collection you’ll find:

  • Clear extruded sheets
  • Black and white acrylic
  • Opal cast acrylic
  • Neon acrylic sheets in bright colours

So you can pick something very simple or something more eye-catching for displays.

Plastic Sheets

Below are some common questions about Plastic Sheets.

What types of plastic sheets do you stock?

We stock a wide range of plastic sheets for roofing, greenhouses and DIY projects. That includes acrylic sheets, multiwall polycarbonate, solid clear polycarbonate, abrasion-resistant polycarbonate, PETG, greenhouse panel packs and more.

Can you cut plastic sheets to size for me?

Yes. We offer a free cut-to-size service on our sheet materials. You give us your measurements, we cut the panels before dispatch, so you have less waste and less work on site.

Which plastic sheet is best for a roof or canopy?

For most roofs, canopies, patios and greenhouses, multiwall polycarbonate is the sheet we usually recommend. It’s light, strong and gives far better insulation than single glazing, which makes it ideal for Irish weather.

What would you suggest for clear glazing or screens?

For clear panels where looks matter, we normally suggest either acrylic or solid clear polycarbonate:

  • Acrylic for very high clarity and UV stability
  • Solid polycarbonate where extra impact resistance is important (for example, safety glazing or screens)
Do your sheets have UV protection for outdoor use?

Yes. Our roofing-grade multiwall polycarbonate has a UV-protected face, and our solid polycarbonate sheets are manufactured from UV-stabilised resin with UV protection on both sides, so they resist yellowing outdoors.

Do you deliver plastic sheets nationwide?

We ship nationwide and offer collection from our Knockmitten Lane depot in Dublin. Our goal is to get sheets cut, packed and out to you as quickly as possible.

Multiwall

Below are some common questions about Multiwall.

What materials should I use to put a Lean-To on my house?

Our most popular options are 10mm twin-wall and 16mm triple-wall clear polycarbonate. For this system, you will require Capex joining profiles, side F sections, front RSC U profiles, fixing buttons, silicone, and flashing, all of which you will see in the roof example. Also, you can advise what the wall's surface is like, as this will affect which flashing can be used, and whether or not you have to pre-prepare the surface.

You can find more here: The Anatomy of a Lean-To Roof: Using the Right Tools and Materials

How much of an angle do I need to have on my Lean-To?

When installing a Lean-To Package, keep a minimum pitch of 5 degrees so that the rainwater runs off toward the gutter preventing moisture from collecting on your roof. 

How do I install the Fixing Button?
  • Use a sharp steel drill bit.
  • Space the buttons between 500mm / 600mm.
  • Drill at least 40mm away from the edge of the sheet.
  • Drill between the ribs.
  • Do not over-tighten the screw when fixing.
  • Use a 12mm / 13mm drill bit to allow for expansion and contraction.
  • Use silicone sealant around the edge of the button to help seal and prevent leakage.
Could my roofing become discoloured within a year or two?

If you use our twin wall/triple wall clear polycarbonate sheets, we offer a 10-year guarantee of non-discolouration/yellowing: if installed correctly. These sheets are single-sided, UV-protected sheets, so it is paramount that the UV-coated side is installed facing the sky; the sheets will clearly be labelled “UV side”.

What can I use to clean my roof?

Make up a solution of lukewarm water and ordinary household cleaner or mild soap and use this to wash the sheet. A sponge or soft cloth should then be used to gently remove dirt and grime.

Warning: 

- Do not scrub the sheet with brushes or sharp implements.

- Do not use squeegees.

- Avoid solvents other than those listed or any abrasive cleaners.

- Avoid cleaners of a highly alkaline composition.

Can I walk on Multiwall Polycarbonate roofing?

Multiwall Polycarbonate Roof Sheets are not designed to support the weight of a person, so you should avoid walking on them. If you do need to succeed with the roof sheets, use crawl boards between the rafters or step ladders as a safe means to doing so.

Polycarbonate

Below are some of are common questions about Polycarbonate.

What is Polycarbonate sheeting and its applications?

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material whose fantastic properties and versatility make it the perfect material for a wide range of applications.

The structure of the plastic comprises carbonate groups. This allows the material to be strong and flexible at the same time. It is widely used in glazing thanks to its unique combination of clarity, strength, and UV resistance.

Applications: Lean-to, sunrooms, carports, most glazing applications, walkways, shelters, machine guards and greenhouses, and many more.

How strong is clear solid polycarbonate compared to glass? 

Regarding your roof strength: polycarbonate is considered
virtually unbreakable with an impact resistance of around 200 – 250 times stronger than regular safety glass. Polycarbonate also fares favourably against other plastic options. For instance, it is 30 times stronger than a comparable acrylic sheet.

Can I cut the material to size myself?

Yes, you can cut the polycarbonate sheets to size yourself. We do, however, recommend using the correct and safe method to do so. Polycarbonate sheets can be cut with either a circular saw or a jigsaw. A circular saw is the best tool to use for cutting larger polycarbonate lengths. Thanks to the properties of this material, polycarbonate won't crack or splinter around the cut.

You can find more here : How To Properly Cut Polycarbonate Sheets

Can I put a drill hole into the material?  

Yes, you can drill holes into polycarbonate sheets. When drilling polycarbonate, it is important that the sheet is well supported. Place the sheet on a flat surface that supports it well and which the drill can run into, for example, a wood board. You can drill polycarbonate with a normal steel drill or an HSS drill.

What is the difference between polycarbonate and acrylic sheeting?

Although very similar in appearance, there are 2 major differences in clear polycarbonate and clear acrylic. Polycarbonate has a much higher impact resistance than acrylic; approximately 30 times stronger. Our polycarbonate has a UV protection coating on both sides which gives the 10-15 year guarantee of non-discolouration whereas acrylic is naturally resistant to UV and won’t discolour for upwards of 20 years.

We have put together a handy guide covering the differences between the two materials, which can be found here.

How long does polycarbonate last?

Polycarbonate is a robust and long-lasting material. How long it lasts is affected by factors like the type of usage and how much wear and tear it is exposed to. But on average, you can easily expect a minimum of 10 years and potentially as high as 20 or more years.

Acrylic

Below are some common questions about our Acrylic.

What is the difference between Cast and Extruded Acrylic?

Cast acrylic and extruded acrylic are both produced from the same base thermoplastic; PMMA; Polymethyl Methacrylate, more commonly known as “perspex” or “plexiglass”. The different production processes are responsible for their slightly different properties and result in them being suitable for different applications.

You can find more here: Difference Between Cast and Extruded Acrylic

What is the difference between Plexiglass, Perspex and Acrylic Glass?

Our clients sometimes ask us questions such as the difference between acrylic, plexiglass and perspex and whether plexiglass is better than acrylic or perspex. The short answer to all these questions is that there are no significant differences between acrylic, plexiglass and perspex, as they all mean the same thing. 

You can find more here: Differences Between Plexiglass, Perspex and Acrylic Glass Finally Explained

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