When investing in a greenhouse structure, one of the most frequently asked questions is: "How long does polycarbonate roofing last?" Whether you're a commercial grower, agri-business, or small-scale farmer, understanding the lifespan of your greenhouse covering is essential for budgeting, planning, and ensuring long-term performance.
In this article, we’ll break down:
The average service life of polycarbonate roofing
Key factors affecting durability
How to extend its lifespan
Comparisons with glass and PE film roofing
Whether it’s worth the cost in the long run
Polycarbonate is one of the most popular materials for greenhouse roofing. Known for its strength, transparency, and insulating properties, it offers a good balance between performance and cost.
Twin-wall or multi-wall polycarbonate sheets typically last 10 to 20 years.
Solid (compact) polycarbonate panels may last up to 20–25 years in optimal conditions.
Warranty range: Most suppliers offer 10-year warranties, with some going up to 15 years depending on coating and thickness.
The durability of polycarbonate sheets can vary based on several environmental and technical factors:
UV rays can degrade plastics over time. High-quality polycarbonate roofing includes a co-extruded UV protective layer, which prevents yellowing, brittleness, and cracking.
Without UV coating, the lifespan can drop to less than 5 years.
Thicker sheets (e.g. 8mm–16mm) provide better structural strength and insulation, and they resist impact and hail better than thinner panels.
Thin panels (4mm): 5–10 years
Thick panels (10mm+): 15–20+ years
Polycarbonate performs well in most climates, but harsh environments can reduce its lifespan:
High UV exposure (e.g. tropical regions) can speed up degradation.
Hailstorms or snow loads can cause mechanical damage.
Extreme temperature swings may lead to expansion-contraction stress.
Incorrect installation—such as overtightening screws, poor sealing, or improper framing—can cause cracking, leaks, or warping over time.
Always ensure panels are installed with expansion gaps, UV side facing out, and proper support structure.
If properly maintained, polycarbonate sheets can exceed their expected service life. Here are a few tips:
✅ Clean the roof regularly with mild soap and soft water to remove dust, algae, and debris. Avoid abrasive sponges.
✅ Inspect for cracks or sealant wear at least once per year.
✅ Avoid strong chemicals like ammonia or solvents during cleaning.
✅ Install with proper slope (minimum 5°) to allow water drainage.
✅ Use anti-drip coatings or sheets to prevent condensation buildup inside.
| Feature | Polycarbonate | Glass | PE Film |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 10–20 years | 25–30 years | 3–5 years |
| Impact Resistance | High | Low | Moderate |
| Insulation (R-value) | Good (1.2–2.0) | Poor (0.9) | Fair (0.7–1.3) |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavy | Very light |
| Cost | Moderate | High | Low |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate | High (frequent replacement) |
Conclusion: Polycarbonate offers a great middle ground between longevity, performance, and cost. It lasts much longer than PE film and is safer and more impact-resistant than glass.
Absolutely. While the upfront investment in polycarbonate sheets may be higher than polyethylene film, the total cost of ownership is lower over time due to fewer replacements, better insulation, and less maintenance.
Use case examples:
✅ Commercial tomato farm in Spain: Upgraded from 3-year film to 10mm twin-wall polycarbonate, cutting yearly replacement costs.
✅ Orchid greenhouse in Malaysia: Switched to UV-coated polycarbonate to reduce yellowing and increase light diffusion.
So, how many years does polycarbonate roofing last?
With the right sheet quality, proper installation, and regular care, you can expect 10 to 20+ years of reliable performance.
It’s a durable, long-term investment that suits both commercial-scale greenhouses and hobby growers alike.
Whether you're building a new greenhouse or upgrading an old one, polycarbonate roofing is a smart, sustainable choice.
Need Expert Advice?
We manufacture and supply high-quality polycarbonate greenhouse roofing systems, tailored for your climate and crop.
Contact us today for pricing and support.
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
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