Polycarbonate canopies for home. Do-it-yourself polycarbonate canopies for a private house: photos of modern canopies. Selection of fasteners for quality construction

Polycarbonate is one of the types of synthetic plastics (otherwise known as thermoplastics). Unique chemical structure material and its inherent physical properties put the material in the line of the most popular ones. The most popular products are arched polycarbonate canopies, canopies of other designs, canopies, and other lightweight and prefabricated structures for various purposes.

When constructing structures for various purposes, two types of material are used. These are monolithic (less common option) and cellular (another name, cellular) polycarbonate. Let's take a closer look at them.

Cellular polycarbonate

The cross-section of the material is very similar to a triangular honeycomb or rectangular shape. It is to this that he owes his name. The initial raw material for its production is polycarbonate granules. This polymer material belongs to thermosetting plastics and is characterized by a number of properties, thanks to which it has become so popular in the building materials market.

Most often, arched polycarbonate canopies are built with your own hands using this type of material.

Classification by structure and geometry of honeycombs

The internal honeycombs are formed by stiffening ribs (oblique and straight), between which air is contained. This determines the high noise insulation properties of the material and its thermal insulation capabilities. According to this parameter, cellular polycarbonates are divided into:

Panels "2H" - two-layer, with honeycombs rectangular section. With a sheet thickness (h) in the range of (4 – 10) mm, the stiffeners are made in the form of simple perpendicular partitions.
“3X” - three-layer sheets that have not only straight, but also additional (inclined) stiffeners. The thickness of the latter is determined by the manufacturer.
“3H” - are also three-layer and have rectangular honeycombs (their length is much greater than the width). Manufactured with h= 6 mm (other sizes: 8 mm or 10 mm). This sheet is best choice to build a canopy in the courtyard of a private house with your own hands;

“5W” - five-layer sheets with rectangular honeycombs. Produced with h= (16 – 20) mm;
“5X” - have inclined and straight ribs. Consist of 5 layers. h=25 mm.

Sheet dimensions:

Thickness – (4 – 32) mm;
Width - 2100 mm;
Length - when sold, the material is cut to length into sheets (1 - 9) m or is offered in a standard length of 12 m.

Monolithic polycarbonate

This material belongs to the group of thermoplastics. The most popular brands are those containing aromatic compounds produced by synthesis from bisphenol.

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Sergey Yurievich

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The thickness of the sheets is set in the range of 2 mm – 12 mm. Standard sheet dimensions are 2050 x 3050 mm.

Country canopies made of polycarbonate with pitched roof, located separately, it is better to make using of this material.

There is a third version of polycarbonate, profiled. But it is practically not used for making canopies.

Advantages of using polycarbonate

The demand for the material in question is explained by its inherent properties:

Ease. Due to the insignificant weight of the sheet, the structures do not place significant additional load on the load-bearing elements. Volumetric structures mounted using it (for example, a gable canopy made of polycarbonate) provide an increase in the actual area of light-transmitting surfaces and expansion of spans. At the same time, special lifting mechanisms for execution installation work not required. A sheet of monolithic polycarbonate is twice as light as glass, and a sheet of cellular polycarbonate is almost six times lighter. This reduces the required volumes of materials for arranging load-bearing structures and reduces the cost of work.
Strength. Despite its lightness, the material is highly durable. The panels confidently withstand high mechanical loads, which is their undoubted advantage compared to glass. This is achieved by the presence of stiffeners and the special molecular structure of the material.
Transparency. Cellular polycarbonate has a light transmittance of 85%, and monolithic polycarbonate has a light transmittance of 90% (for the visible spectrum of radiation).
High thermal insulation properties, sound insulation characteristics.
Flexibility. The sheets are easily bent, which allows the installation of arched structures, vaults, canopies and polycarbonate canopies over the door, etc.
Easy to care for. Natural fabric, water, and household detergents can give the material pristine purity.
Ease of processing.
Ease of use.
Safety.
Significant resistance to high/low temperatures (-40°C/+120°C) and chemically aggressive substances.

Types of canopies

These designs are usually divided according to a number of parameters.

By configuration

Depending on the purpose and location of construction, there are the following types of canopies:

Gable awnings;
Combined type canopies;
Structures, the construction of which requires installation that is highly complex;
Semi-arched and arched canopies.

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Sergey Yurievich

Construction of houses, extensions, terraces and verandas.

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Each of the above types has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Pitched awnings

Shed options almost always represent a continuation of the existing roof. Capital hanging structures made of polycarbonate, due to its plasticity, are practically not made, except in those rare cases when materials of increased strength are used, supported by a significant number of pillars (supports). A gable canopy made of polycarbonate is quite expensive. This is explained by the many expensive elements that make up such a design.

Combined and complex canopies

Typically, such products are built according to individual design developments and are supplemented with decorative fragments and original architectural details. The design of a combined canopy can organically combine flat and arched areas. Such designs are made in single copies, exclusively to order.

Semi-arched or arched canopy

In this option, the manufacture of a polycarbonate canopy requires the use of profile pipes bent to the desired radius. All dimensions (arch bend, profile length and cross-section, chord width) are calculated before work begins.

Canopies of these designs differ favorably from other options in that:

have high rigidity;
minimize wind loads;
prevent snow accumulation.

The fact that the manufacture of polycarbonate canopies is most often carried out in an arched version is due to the increased strength of such structures. They are not subject to wind vibrations, are reliable and very durable. Despite the complexity of their construction and the significant cost of performing the work, these canopies are bestsellers.

By purpose

Taking into account the tasks that canopies will solve, they are divided into several groups.

Canopies mounted above the porch or entrance doors

These canopies are a full-fledged element of the architectural decor of the facade, solving a dual problem:

protect from the effects of atmospheric factors (rain, snow, sun rays);
increase the visual appeal of the building.

Based on the type of construction, polycarbonate door canopies are divided into:

monolithic - canopies that create a single whole with the facade of the building. They are characterized by durability and strength;
modular - have a number of prefabricated elements, are easy to install and are often equipped with side canopies.

The shape of the canopy that we make with our own hands is determined by the project given in the technical specifications and is limited solely by the preferences of the customer.

Based on the type of fastening, these structures are divided into:

hanging;
complete with supports.

The first ones are represented by lightweight structures and have small dimensions. They are usually secured using special hangers.

The latter are fixed with special supports (vertical, in the floor, or corner, in the wall).

Canopies can be made to size taking into account the overall dimensions of the building and customer preferences. In this case, the width of the canopy should be wider than the entrance door, at least 500 mm. And the installed supports should not interfere full disclosure door leaves.

Carports for vehicles

When deciding how to make a polycarbonate canopy that protects your car from bad weather, the design is selected taking into account a number of factors:

Location (canopy adjacent to the house or a separate structure);
Availability of free space;
The number of cars that are planned to be covered;
General design of the building and site.

The greatest demand for free-standing canopies is the arched roof shape. This is explained by significant advantages:

The structure is monolithic, there are no joints or gaps that need to be closed;
Water and snow do not accumulate on roofs of this configuration;
The arch and semi-arch look very advantageous.

When attached to a house with your own hands, sheds require less space and time to construct. One side is fixed on the wall of the house, the second rests on two or more columns (supports).

Usually for carports it is pre-arranged concrete base, designed for the weight of the car. The polycarbonate canopy frame may have metal or wooden racks(depends on general design territory and main building). Possible options for construction from brick, natural stone or concrete.

Shade canopies

These structures are installed when it is necessary to create shade in a specific area. The solution is perfect for gazebos, summer cafes, terraces and walking areas of kindergartens.

For such canopies, polycarbonate is selected that is designed to transmit ≤ 60% of sunlight. Optimal materials for them, lightweight metal or wooden frame structures are considered.

Pool covers

In terms of demand among solvent customers, canopies for swimming pools take second place after similar structures for cars. This is explained next significant advantages that their owners receive:

Water in indoor pools becomes polluted much more slowly, which allows you to significantly save on cleaning them;
Pool can be used direct purpose in bad weather (strong wind, rain);
Bathers are protected from direct UV radiation, so they will not get sunburned;
The cost of heating the water poured into the pool is reduced;
The intensity of evaporation is reduced, which means that water needs to be added less frequently;
The structure is protected from bad weather during the cold season.

Modern polycarbonate canopies for swimming pools are divided into:

Stationary;
Sliding or telescopic.

In the first case, your pool can safely be classified as indoor. Such structures have reliable foundations, a monolithic roof and cover an area larger than the surface of the pool. In fact, it is a separate building. It perfectly accommodates furniture for relaxation, a bar counter, etc., it can be electrified and supplied with heating.

In the second case, polycarbonate canopies over the pool are made in the form of a mobile structure, which extends only when necessary and can provide both complete and partial coverage of the pool surface.

In addition to these parameters, pool canopies can vary in the height of the roof. With the value of the mentioned characteristic being 1 meter, it plays the role of a protective structure that covers communications and the pool mirror if necessary. If the distance to the ceiling exceeds 2 meters, this is already a full-fledged universal pavilion.

The construction of a polycarbonate canopy for these objects involves giving them various dome shapes:

Classic (visually represents a half-cylinder assembled from several sections);
Rectangular;
Complex shape;
Trapezoid shape;
The canopy can be made in an asymmetrical version.

Such polycarbonate buildings represent a metal frame covered with a translucent material and fit perfectly into the landscape design of any style.

Canopies for terraces and balconies

Modern materials and technologies have made a polycarbonate canopy for a balcony or terrace one of the most acceptable options. This material is bright, strong and very durable.

Polycarbonate sheets are mounted on a lightweight metal frame. Awnings can be of any size and shape. And vertical walls made of this material visually make the balcony very attractive.

The decision to make a polycarbonate canopy with your own hands allows you to realize any designer’s plan. For example, turn the terrace into an attached winter garden.

conclusions

Both existing types of polycarbonate are the optimal and balanced solution in terms of the cost of the material, its quality and the cost of work for arranging canopies of any purpose and configuration.

Video instructions on how to build a polycarbonate canopy with your own hands

IN summer time all meetings with friends or family gatherings are postponed to Fresh air. Sudden rain often interferes with plans and forces guests and owners to move into the house. There are many structures designed to protect against such troubles. Among the options, awnings and polycarbonate canopies attached to the house stand out. They are not only easy to manufacture, but also reliably perform their protective functions.

What is a canopy

A canopy is a structure consisting of a roof and supports in the form of pillars. The structure can have different sizes and structure, be installed separately or adjacent to the house. The main purpose is protection from rain, but they also serve as canopies to protect against direct sun rays.

Polycarbonate canopy for sun protection

Advantages

The advantages of the design include:

Lightweight, no need to build a strong foundation.
The ability to cover a considerable part of the yard or area near the house, allowing you to perform various works regardless of weather conditions.
A polycarbonate canopy adjacent to the house makes it possible to hold events with relatives or friends without appearing in the open air.
The design is simple and can be made by hand.

Flaws

It is necessary to remember the disadvantages of awnings:

The structure does not protect from wind, dust, cold, or insects.
The roofing material can completely block access to sunlight, which is why there is a lack of illumination under the canopy.
The roof rattles noticeably in the rain, so it is not recommended to install the structure under the windows of a bedroom or children's room.
In winter, large masses of snow accumulate on the surface, creating a significant load on the roof and base of the canopy.

A canopy is not a simple protective structure; it forms a kind of communication center, a place for gatherings with friends and relatives. In addition, it is capable of performing other functions:

parking lot protection;
transition from home to bathhouse or other buildings;
canopy over the porch, balcony, or other elements of the house.

In addition, high-quality canopies decorate the area near the house and create a high decorative effect. They are often combined with other structures, forming specialized areas for recreation, communication or other purposes.

Types of canopies

Existing canopy designs can be combined into groups according to different characteristics. By form:

straight;
single or double slope;
domed;
tent;
wavy;
multi-level;
arched, etc.

By type of connection to the wall:

Cantilever (a design typical for canopies over windows or porches).
Having supports on the ground. They are used for large structures that create excessive load on the walls or foundation.

According to the material:

metal;
wooden;
combined.

There are many varieties roofing, but we will only consider polycarbonate canopies.

Requirements for the design of canopies

A polycarbonate canopy attached to a house is being built for permanent use, so certain requirements must be met. In particular, the shape of the roof should not interfere with the flow of rainwater or snow melting in winter. In this case, places of possible gathering should be located outside the paths, parking areas or possible presence of people. This is most relevant for regions with snowy winters, where heavy wet snow often falls. The load it creates can deform or destroy the structure, so it is necessary to ensure timely sliding of snow masses from the surface. To do this, you need to build inclined or pitched roof shapes.

Important! In cases of using a polycarbonate canopy attached to a private house in a region with increased snowfall, the use of large flat surfaces should be avoided.

Canopies and canopies made of polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is considered the most preferred material for roofing. It appeared on the market relatively recently, but short term has gained high popularity due to its performance qualities. The material has high light transmittance; some of its varieties differ little from glass in terms of transparency.

Roof covering - polycarbonate

pros

TO positive qualities roofing material should include:

Light weight. The load from polycarbonate is much lower than from other roofing coverings.
Elasticity, the ability to bend and take the shape of the base.
A transparent canopy or canopy made of polycarbonate attached to the house does not create significant shading.
The material can withstand fairly high mechanical loads; due to its elasticity, it can withstand impacts.
Durability.
High frost resistance.
Low combustion ability. A polycarbonate roof has the ability to self-extinguish.
Ease of processing.

Minuses

Negative qualities include:

High sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. Considering the scope of application, the disadvantage is serious. Manufacturers solve the issue by applying protective films, introducing neutralizing additives into the composition of the material during manufacturing.
Polycarbonate is unstable to the effects of technical hydrocarbons (oils, gasoline, and other chemicals of this series).
The material has the ability to accumulate moisture. For this reason, mandatory sealing of the ends becomes an important point. cellular polycarbonate with a special aluminum tape that prevents water from penetrating into the cavities.

The range of qualities of polycarbonate allows it to be used in different areas. Basically this is glazing or the formation of transparent surfaces for outbuildings. When installing sheets of material, you must follow certain rules and use special fasteners and provide thermal clearances to compensate for thermal expansion. It is recommended to let the polycarbonate sit for some time after purchase to allow excess moisture to escape.

Types of polycarbonate

There are two types of polycarbonate:

Monolithic.
Cell phone.

Both types are the same material, but have different shapes.

Monolithic

An example of a monolithic polycarbonate canopy

Monolithic polycarbonate is a continuous sheet of plastic of a certain thickness. Outwardly, it is similar to ordinary glass, but has high elasticity and the ability to bend in any direction. The roof made of monolithic polycarbonate is transparent, does not interfere with the passage of sunlight and does not shade the space under the canopy. Some users consider this a disadvantage and purchase colored polycarbonate, which reduces the brightness of sunlight. There are different shades available for sale:

red;
bronze;
green;
grey;
blue;
blue;
orange;
yellow;
turquoise;
brown.

The abundance of shades allows you to create a roof with the effect of transparency, but with some change in illumination; all objects under the canopy acquire a reflection corresponding to the color of the coating. In regions with scorching sun, the use of colored types of polycarbonate can significantly reduce discomfort on the brightness of the light.

Cellular

An example of a canopy made of cellular polycarbonate

Cellular polycarbonate is sheets consisting of two or three thin layers material separated by longitudinal, perpendicularly installed jumpers. The resulting voids - honeycombs - make the sheets resistant to cold. Moreover, the degree of transparency of such sheets is much less than that of a monolithic material. For use as roofing, cellular polycarbonate is much preferable, as it is lighter, cheaper, and easier to install.

What to consider when designing a canopy

First of all, you should decide on the material for the frame for the canopy or polycarbonate canopy. When choosing it, you need to take into account durability and the ability to maintain its performance throughout its entire service life. The optimal choice is metal profiled pipes, which are easy to connect and have high load-bearing capacity and strength. The disadvantage of this choice is the large weight of the structure, which requires the creation of a sufficiently powerful foundation.

Usage wooden parts allows you to create lighter structures that do not create loads on the walls and do not require a strong foundation. At the same time, a wooden canopy has low strength and is unstable to wind loads. A squally gust can tear it away from the supporting structure.

Important! An important factor is the cost of the project. It is recommended to determine the order of expenses from the very first steps, so as not to waste time on plans that are obviously unattainable.

When designing the shape of the canopy, you need to take into account your capabilities and production base. Some options require the presence of specialists and the use complex equipment. If there are no such possibilities, it is better to limit yourself to simpler forms.

You should definitely get information about the amount of snow that falls in your region in winter. The weight of the snow layer can crush a large polycarbonate canopy, so you should consider options with a removable covering, reduce the surface area or increase the angle of the roof. At the same time, it is important to ensure safe snow removal so as not to damage objects found under it.

How to make a canopy or canopy with your own hands

The production of a polycarbonate canopy can be divided into several stages:

Creation of a project, working drawing.
Acquisition necessary materials.
Construction of the foundation.
Manufacturing load-bearing structure.
Installation.
Installation of roofing.

How to make a polycarbonate canopy with your own hands - step-by-step instructions

The duration and complexity of these stages largely depend on the material and size of the canopy, the method of fastening and other features of the structure frame. The creation of a foundation is considered the most labor-intensive operation, but it is often done without it. If a cantilever type of canopy is used, when one side is attached to the wall of the house, and only two opposite pillars rest on the ground, they are simply poured into concrete glasses. In the same way, pillars, supports for fences, etc. are installed. A full foundation is needed only for large sheds with large area roofs and a massive base.

The supporting structure is assembled by welding or bolted connections. Several assistants will be required for installation, especially with large size and weight of parts. Work should be carried out with a serviceable tool in compliance with all safety rules. The frame is fastened to the wall of a house or any other building using anchor bolts; the pillars are either welded to the foundation or screwed to the poured embedded parts. You should not skimp on the strength and stability of the canopy; ensuring the safety of the people under it is the main task.

Sheets can only be bent along the internal cavities of the material.
The material is fastened to special thermal washers installed in pre-drilled holes. You cannot screw it directly with self-tapping screws, as this will cause deformation of the roofing.
The ends of the sheets should be protected from water ingress with a special aluminum tape. If this is neglected, the material will quickly become clogged with dust and will look old and untidy.

Installation of polycarbonate roofing is carried out on a fully installed supporting structure . The frame is pre-coated with a protective layer of paint, which must be renewed after installation, especially in welding areas or around holes. Before completing installation, it is necessary to provide for the possibility of attaching wiring for lighting, the necessary additional components for installing various equipment or decorative elements.

“Installation of a polycarbonate canopy” video instruction

Polycarbonate canopies are outdoor structures, universal for economic purposes. The material is light, flexible, translucent in large quantities color scheme, convenient format, are presented in different thicknesses, which allows you to design canopies of simple and complex curved shapes. The buildings look light, elegant, do not overload the landscape, and fit into any stylistic solution of the architectural ensemble on the site.

In the article we will give step-by-step instructions on how to make a polycarbonate canopy with your own hands, how to choose the right shape, calculate and design the structure.

What you need to know about polycarbonate canopies - general criteria

The manufacture of polycarbonate canopies has become popular due to the ease of installation, practicality of the material, and aesthetics of buildings. There are:

independent, free-standing - canopies over the pool, greenhouses, car parking, gazebos, outbuildings for various purposes;
attached to the building: bathhouse, garage - verandas, terraces, canopies over the porch and gate;
mobile - easily move around the site, usually over barbecues and small gazebos.

Sheds attached to a polycarbonate house, photos of large curved extensions

These are simple rectangular or complex, curvilinear structures, sometimes two-story, for example, above a garage or summer kitchen. Open and closed type, for this side walls glazed, covered with panels, beautiful grille, clapboard, blockhouse or covered with thick curtains.

Indoor polycarbonate canopy

Advice: Soft transparent windows and sliding aluminum systems are the most versatile option: they do not block the view, open easily, and retain heat well when closed.

Polycarbonate support canopy attached to the house, photo of a curved roof

Canopies consist of supporting vertical posts and a roof. The frame is made of wood, metal, less often of concrete, stone, brick.

Typical drawing of a freestanding polycarbonate canopy

Wooden sheds with polycarbonate roofing

Production of canopies and canopies from polycarbonate wooden base- the most budget-friendly and easiest way to independently make a small architectural form on the site. The work does not require professional equipment; household hand tools are sufficient. To build a wooden canopy from polycarbonate with your own hands, you use glued and profiled beams 100*100 or 150*150 mm, rounded logs ∅150-200 mm, tree trunks, strapping and mauerlat made from the same material. For the rafter system of outbuildings, according to SNiP, it is necessary edged board 40*100 mm.

Sketch of a wooden polycarbonate canopy

The main disadvantages are flammability, poor moisture resistance resulting in rotting, fungal infections, loss of strength and aesthetics. Rodents and small bugs can cause significant damage to load-bearing elements. Wooden canopies and polycarbonate canopies must be treated with fire-resistant compounds, an antiseptic, and a durable finishing protective layer of oil or varnish.

A polycarbonate canopy attached to the house, in the photo there is a structure with a sloping roof

Metal canopies

Before making a polycarbonate canopy on a metal frame, you should choose the type of construction:

Welded from profiled or round pipes are the most popular polycarbonate canopies. For vertical posts, pipes with a diameter of 50-150 mm are used, depending on the size of the building, for piping - a profile with an edge of 40-80 mm, for a farm - 25-50 mm.
Forged ones are beautiful, elegant, but quite expensive from a financial point of view. On the construction market you can buy stamped forged parts and create an exclusive product yourself.
Prefabricated aluminum.

Canopy for the house made of polycarbonate, in the photo there is a hanging forged canopy of a cantilever type

For polycarbonate canopies up to 5 m, use a profile with a wall thickness of 2 mm, a cross-section of 40*20 mm, for buildings over 5.5 m, you will need a 3*40*40 or 2*30*60 mm rental.

An example of how to make a polycarbonate canopy with your own hands, drawings of an arched structure

An iron canopy will last for decades, although its main enemy is corrosion. It is necessary to clean the parts with a stiff brush from rust, scale, oil stains, go over the entire surface with an abrasive, then rinse with a solvent. Next, cover with primer, paint, it’s better hammer paint, it copes well with chemical, biological and mechanical loads.

Sketch of a suspended polycarbonate canopy over the entrance

Good to know: Metal products heat up from fire, sunlight, and quickly cool down in cold weather, so for comfort in gazebos, porches, and terraces, it is better to provide wooden railings on the parapet.

Brick, stone and concrete

Brick, concrete, stone polycarbonate canopies in the yard look impressive, but light and not bulky, thanks to the translucency of polycarbonate. They do not require maintenance during operation, are fire resistant, and tolerate harmful atmospheric influences and physical and mechanical influences well, although they require significant time and financial costs. While canopies made from other materials can be disassembled and moved, such structures are stationary and cannot be dismantled.

Roof

Polycarbonate canopies, photo interesting ideas are presented in the gallery, there are also quite a lot of pictures and projects on the network, there are single and double slopes, arched, cascading, less common are conical, domed, wavy.

Typical options for polycarbonate canopies

Making the base is not difficult; it is enough to take into account wind and snow loads in the region, but rafter system requires serious calculations.

Farm classification:

According to the characteristic outlines of the contour - polygonal, triangular, broken parallel belts.
By type of lattice - rhombic, triangular, semi-diagonal, diagonal.
According to the method of support - cantilever, beam, arched, beam-cantilever.

Cascade support-cantilever canopy made of polycarbonate

The simplest option is lean-to canopy made of polycarbonate, optimal angle roof slope 22-30 o. The rafters are made of wood or it is a truss - a horizontal, curved or triangular frame with supporting braces, angled posts inside the main structure.

Scheme for a lean-to building

To create a project you need:

Diagram of the canopy with the type of roof; the type of lower and upper belts depends on this.
Drawings of polycarbonate canopies must include the dimensions of the structure, since the load changes in direct proportion to the dimensions. It is important to determine the upper as well as the lower point of the slope; the lower the slope, the more snow will accumulate on the roof.
Take into account the size of the panels; the distance between the rafters depends on this, so that the edge does not fall into the void.
Wind and snow loads in the region can be found using special tables.

Gable polycarbonate canopy - project with forged elements

Trusses are calculated according to the SNiP regulations in section 2.01.07-85, this is difficult for independent calculations, engineering education is required, also special software. To avoid errors it is recommended to use online calculator or take a ready-made project. Loads and impacts are specified in SNiP standards in part 2.01.07-85, rules for manufacturing metal structures— P-23-81 SNiP.

Arched canopies made of polycarbonate, in the photo there are sketches for small buildings

Good to know: The greater the distance from the bottom to the top point of the roof, the higher its load-bearing capacity.

To avoid getting confused in complex calculations, use the following recommendations:

With a slope of 22-30 o in a building 6-12 m wide, the height and length of the triangular truss should have a proportion of 1:5;
If the slope is 15-22 o, the dimensions are in the proportion 1:5, but the braces must be low-sloping, an even number of belts must be made, optimally 8.
A smaller slope is suitable for larger industrial buildings, engineering calculations are required here; the length and height of the run should be in the proportions of 1:7, 1:9.

Simple diagrams on how to make rafters for a polycarbonate canopy

Calculation of a polycarbonate canopy from a profile pipe

Let's take a canopy as a basis, size 6000*4000 mm, this is an ergonomic solution: a comfortable gazebo or covered parking for a car.

Standard dimensions of polycarbonate in width and length:

cast 2.050*2, 3, 6.12 m;
cell phone 2,100*3,6,12 m.

For private buildings, a sheet thickness of 6-12 mm is suitable.

Polycarbonate performance table

Trusses must be placed under each edge and in the middle of the sheets, so the distance between them will be 1 m.

For the racks we will take a pipe ∅80-100 mm, the pitch is 2.0 m along the long side of the canopy. For the roof:

main elements - profile pipe 30*30 mm, length of the lower ones - 3.1 m, remember the Pythagorean theorem: square of the hypotenuse equal to the sum squares of the legs, calculate the length of the upper ones, in our case - 3.9 m;
inclined spacers - profile pipe 20*20 mm, location - at an angle of 25 degrees.

We will install perpendicular jumpers every 0.5 m from each other.

Standard diagram of a small farm

Step-by-step instructions on how to build a polycarbonate canopy for your house yourself

To cook metal awnings For a polycarbonate dacha, a number of conditions must be met:

Parts, as well as load-bearing elements, should not be cracked.
The roughness of the end of the supporting rib is determined by GOST 2789-73 - Ra £ 12.5 microns.
It is unacceptable to use steel with an internal layer and coarse slag inclusions for the lower chord of the truss.
According to GOST 14771-76, connections are best performed by mechanical welding, in a carbon dioxide environment or its mixture with argon.
According to GOST 2246-70 and 26271-84 it is recommended to use welding wire PP-AN-8.
For attaching rafters to sub-rafter elements and vertical columns Bolts of class 5.8 are used according to clause 7798-70 GOST.

Drawing of an asymmetric arched canopy

Practical construction

We mark a place for the pillars, dig holes 700 mm deep, make a cushion of 100 mm sandstone, 100 mm crushed stone, and tamp it. We pour 100-200 mm of concrete into the bottom, install a pillar in it, insert it with force, in a circular motion, so that it goes deep. We fill the hole with concrete, check the plumb line, correct it if necessary, and also strengthen it with supporting slopes.

Important: Professionals recommend placing supports along the house, but if this is not possible, then load-bearing wall a beam of 60, 80*80 mm should be placed on the anchors, the trusses should be supported on it, connected by welding, this will allow the load to be distributed over the entire surface.

A way to secure vertical supports

When the solution has completely risen, we tie the pillars together at their heads, check the geometry, the diagonals must be equal.

It is better to cook farms on the ground, according to the chosen scheme; the most common ones are shown in the photo above. Finished parts lift, distribute evenly along the harness, in our case, every meter. The fastening points of the longitudinal strips and rafters are made using steel gussets, as well as welding or bolting.

The next stage is the sheathing (perpendicular purlins), from a 20*40 mm pipe, with a pitch of 400-600 mm, and sheets will be attached to it. The finished metal structure is cleaned and then painted.

The purlins will strengthen the frame, this will allow the polycarbonate to be fixed more securely

Watch video tips on how to properly attach a polycarbonate canopy to your house, this will help you avoid major mistakes when building with your own hands.

How to work with polycarbonate correctly

Cutting polycarbonate is better circular saw, equipped carbide disc with undiluted fine teeth. Holes should be made using a drill with a metal drill, between the stiffening ribs. At the upper ends of the honeycomb panels, strips and self-adhesive tape should be installed for sealing; the lower ends should not be covered.

There are 2 ways in total:

Thermal washers - the holes are made 2 mm larger than the mounting leg; the part should fit tightly until it clicks. The length of the washer is equal to the thickness of the polycarbonate; it is necessarily equipped with an elastic band that seals the connection, which prevents precipitation and dust from getting inside. This type of fastening is called a point fastening; the washer tightly holds the polycarbonate and prevents it from deforming when heated.

How to secure polycarbonate to a canopy using a thermal washer

A special profile is a strip with grooves on both sides into which polycarbonate is inserted. The method is preferable if the sheets have to be joined. The edges are screwed with thermal washers. Profiles are provided for different connection: corner, docking, one-piece, wall, detachable and special for docking, if you need to change the roof configuration.

Photo instructions on how to attach polycarbonate to metal frame canopy using a profile

There is also a wet method, the panels are attached with putty, but if you are making a canopy with your own hands, then it is better to limit yourself to the previous 2 tips.

Types of fastening polycarbonate to the sheathing

Translucent plastic visors various colors have a lot of advantages: aesthetics, strength, durability and low weight of the coating. An additional advantage of such products is that a beautiful canopy made of cellular polycarbonate can be assembled with your own hands without much difficulty. One condition: in order not to spoil the material, it is necessary to study the installation technology.

Selection and calculation of design

The scope of application of polycarbonate roofs is quite wide - durable and lightweight material is used for the construction of canopies over verandas, swimming pools, and parking areas (an example is shown in the photo). Often the coating is used to make a variety of canopies attached to the porch of a private house or adjacent to a garage, country house and other structures.

All of these buildings are divided into several types depending on their purpose and shape:

By design - a partition, an open canopy and a completely enclosed structure (for example, a country greenhouse, a winter garden).
In shape - single-pitch, gable, arched and domed.
By location - free-standing and attached.

Any type of structure consists of two main parts - load-bearing frame and the polycarbonate coating itself. The purpose of the calculation is optimal selection the thickness of the roofing material and the installation pitch of the rafters or sheathing arches, depending on the snow load.

Reference. Manufacturers produce polycarbonate with a thickness of 6, 8, 10 and 16 mm in sheets measuring 6 and 12 meters. The price of products directly depends on the thickness.

If you try to save money and buy the cheapest 6 mm sheet, then to increase bearing capacity you will have to make reinforced sheathing with an interval of 60-70 cm between the beams. As a result, you will lose out on the cost of labor and materials for the supporting structure.

Options for canopies attached to a residential building

And vice versa: an inexpensive frame with a large jumper pitch will have to be covered with thick, expensive polycarbonate. How to make the best choice:

Note. Similar load tables are available from most polycarbonate manufacturers whose products are sold in hardware stores.

An example of a drawing of a building intended for a car

Materials for making a canopy

The amount of building materials is individual in each case and depends on the size of the structure. If you want to build a polycarbonate car visor with your own hands, you need to purchase components according to the drawing:

Advice. A proven way to simplify the task of calculating and selecting materials is to contact the company where you plan to order polycarbonate. Specialists with sales experience can offer several design options; all you have to do is choose the appropriate project.

Unlike single-pitch canopies, an arched canopy is more difficult to assemble - you will need an industrial machine to make arches from profile pipes. Planning self-installation, worth considering alternative solution– install a canopy from a prefabricated set of ready-made metal structures. If the design and dimensions of the building differ from the proposed standard range of products, you can place an order for individual production of frame elements.

To assemble a canopy attached to a house or installed on a balcony, you need to prepare brackets and anchor bolts for fastening to the wall. When choosing polycarbonate sheets, pay attention to the presence of ultraviolet protection in the form of a colored film, which contains information about the manufacturer and methods of proper installation. For more useful information about polycarbonate, watch the video:

Frame structure

Work begins with the construction of a supporting structure for a polycarbonate canopy mounted on supports. Since the weight of the structure is small, it is not necessary to make a powerful deep foundation. The base must withstand the weight of snow in winter and wind loads, without allowing the racks to warp or fall.

There are 3 ways to make a high-quality foundation for a visor:

Drill holes in the ground to a depth of 0.8-1 m, install supports and secure with rubble stone. Other options are full and partial concreting, used in.
If the carport is being built for 1-2 cars, fill reinforced concrete slab according to the size of the car, and attach the pillars to the monolithic base with anchor bolts. A similar solution is used to install a canopy over the entrance with a ready-made one.
Supports under covered terrace, a greenhouse with beds or a carport can be placed on screw piles screwed into the ground to a depth of 1-1.5 m.

Options for installing vertical supports in the ground

Further work depends on the selected project. A common option: pairs of racks can be connected by trusses, which are connected into a single structure by purlins, as shown in the drawing. The elements are fastened together with bolts or by welding, and upon completion of the work they are primed and painted 2 times.

Installation of polycarbonate panels

From specialized tool You will need small core drills that match the diameter of the thermal washers. The fact is that polycarbonate expands significantly when heated by the sun, so you cannot screw the sheets directly to the sheathing. Fastening is carried out using the following technology:

Note. To prevent the polycarbonate from cracking during fastening, maintain a minimum distance of 4 cm from the edge to the washer. Adjust the screwdriver to a medium tightening force.

Having figured out the fastening method, proceed to laying the polycarbonate panels according to the instructions:

Important! Between the end connecting profile and polycarbonate sheet, provide a gap of 3 mm for thermal expansion.

Joining adjacent elements on the ridge gable roof and connection to the wall is made using special profiles. When installing unusual structures in the form of arches, polycarbonate can be bent, but only across the stiffeners. In this case, the end caps should be taken to a longer length, and after attaching the panel, cut in place.

More detailed visual instructions for making a polycarbonate canopy are presented in the next video:
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Modern personal plot, no matter whether it belongs to a cottage or a simple country house, it is difficult to imagine without a canopy, for example, over the owner’s car. This design now performs not only a practical function, but also an aesthetic one. The most common material used for canopies is polycarbonate. You can make a structure from it yourself.

Advantages and disadvantages of polycarbonate

Selection of similar sheet blanks during installation hanging structures justified by many advantages.

polycarbonate transmits light, but at the same time protects from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation;
it is non-flammable, which eliminates the risk of fire;
the sheets have different colors, you can choose the color to your taste;
designs made from these blanks look aesthetically pleasing;
polycarbonate is lightweight;
it is flexible, but at the same time impact-resistant;
retains heat well inside the overall structure;
it is easy and pleasant to work with (it is cut with a stationery knife and screwed to the frame with self-tapping screws).

True, polycarbonate also has disadvantages. They may appear during installation and operation of the suspended structure. Namely:

over time, such material can crack, which will require replacing individual sheets;
if you violate the installation rules, the polycarbonate will also collapse;
thin sheets may not withstand layers of snow if the frame is poorly designed.

So, the described material clearly has more advantages, so its use in sheds is logical. But before you start building such a structure, you need to decide on the dimensions and draw up a sketch.

Preparatory work: what thickness of material to use

Before choosing the dimensions of the structure, it is recommended to decide on the type of sheets for installation. That is, you first need to choose the color and thickness of the blanks. Cellular polycarbonate is sold in sheets of different thicknesses (from 4 mm to 12 mm). When purchasing for country house construction the material can be cut (depending on the size of the building).

The thickness of the part for making the canopy is selected according to to the following principle- the structure must withstand snow. But this is largely influenced not so much by the quality of the polycarbonate as by the reliability of the frame. Therefore, even the thinnest sheets can be used. This will also significantly reduce the cost of the canopy.

How to choose the size of a structure: drawing up a drawing

The most difficult thing is to decide on the size of the planned structure. There are several options:

If the canopy is made over the porch, the width of the structure should be such that the latter protrudes 30 cm to the left and right of the entrance door. In this case, raindrops will not fall on the floor and the person entering. The length of the product is taken to be equal to the distance from the wall of the house to the edge of the first step of the porch.
If the canopy is located above the car, then its dimensions must correspond to the size of the car, and an additional minimum of 30 cm must be added to each parameter.
The same goes for the pool. The canopy over it needs to be a little larger.

After determining the dimensions, you need to draw a drawing.

On the facade side, the canopy is often made arched. In this case, the bending radius of the cellular polycarbonate must be equal to the height of the extension.

How to calculate the material

The amount of required materials can be calculated using the constructed drawing. Let's assume we create a structure without arched elements. Let it be a canopy over the porch. In this case, the width of the entrance door is 80 cm. According to the recommendations of experts, we take the width of the canopy equal to H = 80 + 30 + 30 = 140 cm or 1.4 m.

Let's say the distance from the edge of the first step of the porch to the wall of the house is 1 m. This means that the length of the canopy is the same.

A profile square pipe with a cross section of 25 x 25 mm is ideal for the frame. It is enough to install three pieces of polycarbonate support, each 1 m long, and connect them transversely at the edge of the canopy.

The supports of the structure can be made from ordinary steel pipe with a diameter of 32 mm. It is enough to install two pillars in the ground up to the level of the upper edge of the front door (at least 2 m). Don't forget to add 0.5 m to the digging into the ground.

Required Tools

To work with polycarbonate you need:

stationery knife;
screwdriver;
Bulgarian;
roulette.

Step-by-step instructions for installing a polycarbonate canopy

The process of making a canopy depends on many parameters, in particular on its location relative to the walls of the house.

How to properly attach a canopy to a private house over the porch

The first option is a structure attached to a private house. All work is done in several steps:

For the main frame elements it is better to use metal profile pipe with a square section made of plain steel measuring 25 x 25 mm. It needs to be cut with a grinder. According to the calculation, it is necessary to cut 3 profiles of 1 m each and a piece 1.4 m long. It is also necessary to prepare two pipes of 2.5 m each.
In the corners of the porch, that is, along the edges of the rib of the first step, two pipes are buried 0.5 m into the ground strictly vertically. It is advisable to concrete the bases of these pillars. Why combine cement, sand, crushed stone in equal parts, mix with water and fill the holes into which the pipes are inserted with the solution.
Ends of segments square profile 3 m long at equal distances, they are mounted on the wall of the house 20 cm above the front door. For fastening, metal corners, large screws and a screwdriver are used. If the house is brick, you will have to take a hammer drill, drill holes for self-tapping screws and first insert plastic dowels into the holes. You need to try to ensure that the two outer segments rest with their front ends on the tubular pillars.
The transverse profile is laid. Its ends should also rest on the tubular pillars. To connect it perpendicularly to sections 1 m long, metal corners and self-tapping screws are used. As a result, the frame should have a slight slope.
A sheet of cellular polycarbonate of the required size is cut from a single piece. A utility knife is suitable for this operation. The sheet is cut along the honeycomb easily. In the transverse direction you will have to apply a little effort.
The polycarbonate is attached with self-tapping screws to the profiles using a screwdriver. In this case, the honeycomb lines must be laid parallel to the wall of the house, otherwise the sheet will sag from the snow and break.

Installation of an arched canopy around a pool in a country house

The second option is to place a canopy over the pool. This has its own characteristics, since it will not rest on the wall of the house. The sequence of work is as follows:

First, pillars are installed at the corners of the pool using the previously described technology. Material - pipe with a diameter of 32 mm. But in this case, you need to retreat from the corners in each case by 30 cm along the imaginary diagonal of the pool.
Next, a profile frame is mounted on these pillars. Here it is advisable to use arched elements. To manufacture them, it is better to use the services of a construction organization, since self-assembly such a frame is very difficult.
It is better to weld the ends of the roof skeleton to the posts using electrodes and a welding machine.
Sheets of cellular polycarbonate must be laid one at a time until the entire space is filled, carefully joining each other.

In a similar way, a canopy is installed over a patio, barbecue, open seating area and any other element of the architecture of the local area.

Video: DIY polycarbonate carport

A polycarbonate canopy will last a long time if you take care of it regularly. It is necessary to examine the condition of the fastenings, as well as the safety of the cellular polycarbonate sheets. Minor repairs include replacing screws or part of the coating.