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How To Install Plastic Roof Panels

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published September 23, 2024

Installing plastic roof panels on your garden shed, shop or patio will protect it from rain and snow. You can choose between polycarbonate and PVC plastic panels. Here, we will guide you through the steps to install plastic roof panels.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Types of Plastic Roof Panel

  1. Polycarbonate Plastic Roof Panel - Polycarbonate plastic roof panels are made of thermoplastic polymer that is strong and durable in nature. They are very tough and little likely to break or crack compared to other types of plastic. These panels are transparent almost like glass to let in natural light. These panels have UV protection to avoid sun damage and discoloration over time. Polycarbonate panels are best to be used for garden or backyard sheds. 
  2. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) Plastic Roof Panels - Polyvinyl chloride plastic roof panels are famous for affordability, versatility, and durability. PVC panels do not rot and corrode quickly. These panels are more opaque than polycarbonate panels. PVC panels are lightweight, easy to install, and require low maintenance. It is suitable for garages, sheds, or agricultural buildings where a roofing solution is necessary.

Before You Install Plastic Panel Roof

Keep all your tools and materials handy for easy access. Measure the area of the roof so you can fit the panels at correct angles. Ensure that the roof is strong and well spaced. It is recommended to have rafters (it is a large sloping piece of wood that is attached to support the roof) spaced 24 to 36 inches apart. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for better results.

Measure and Cut

Measuring the roof area

Use a ladder to carefully climb up to your roof and use a measuring tape to calculate the roof's width and length.

  • Multiply the length by the width to get the roof area. For example, if your roof is 20 feet wide and 15 feet long, the area will be 300 square feet (20 x 15 = 300 sq ft).
  • For an accurate estimate that accounts for overlaps and waste, double the roof area. In this example, 300 sq ft x 2 = 600 sq ft.
  • To ensure you have enough material, add 15% to the doubled area. Calculate 15% of 600 sq ft, which is 90 sq ft (600 x 0.15 = 90). Add this to your doubled area: 600 + 90 = 690 sq ft. This is the total material needed.
  • Understand the dimensions of the plastic roof panels you are using. For instance, if each panel is 3 feet wide and 6 feet long, the area of one panel is 18 square feet (3 x 6 = 18 sq ft).
  • Divide the total roof area by the area of one panel to find out how many panels you need. In this example, you need 690 sq ft / 18 sq ft per panel ≈ 38.33 panels. Since you can't purchase a fraction of a panel, round up to the next whole number, so you need 39 panels.
  • Before you start installing plan the layout of the panels to minimize cuts and waste.

Tip

It’s always better to purchase a few extra panels to account for any mistakes or damages during installation.

Caution

If you are not sure then take help from a professional for trimming or cutting the panel as per the size of the roof.

Cut the Panel to Install on the Roof:

Different kinds of cutting tools are required to cut various roof panel types. If you are working with polycarbonate roof panels, then use a utility knife for cutting single pieces. Utility knives are best for making multiple cuts in a single sheet. If you are planning to put a PVC plastic roof panel, then use a circular saw. It becomes easy to cut longer lengths with a circular saw.

Tip

Use a painter’s tape to mark where you need to cut the sheet precisely. it will give you perfect finishing.

Caution

Wear safe gloves, goggles, and mask while cutting the panel to safeguard yourself from any accident.

Drill Holes on the Ridges:

Some roof panels already have pre-drilled holes. If your panel does not have the holes, use a drill to add them. Make holes every 6 to 8 inches horizontally and every 2 ft vertically. Drill holes on the nearby ridge.

Caution

If you need help with using the drill machine, always seek help from professionals.

How to Install Plastic Roof Panels

Install the Roof Panels:

Have someone hand you the panel after you’ve reached the roof top. Place the panel on the roof. Overhang the panels from the eaves for better security. Once you have placed all the panels, start fixing them with fasteners and washers into the pre-drilled holes. Repeat the same across the roof until all panels are fixed.

Put the Upper Row of the Panels:

Install the upper row of the panels over the previously installed panels. The upper panels will cover the entire roof.

Cover the Edges and Peak of the Roof:

Gable trim and roof caps should be used to cover the roof’s edges and peak between the panels, respectively. Use screws to secure the gable trim over the edges. Lay the roof cap overlapping it for 3 or 4 inches and screw them too.

Tip

The ridge cap might need some sealant. If you’re unclear read the manufacturer's instructions.

Best Suitable Plastic Panel for you

When you plan to panel your roofs there are a few things that you need to keep in mind for choosing the panel.

  1. Ease of installation: Some panels are easier to install than others. If you plan to install it on your own choose the panels that won’t take a day long to install.
  2. Resistant to impact: If your area is more likely to be affected by rain or heavy snow, consider polycarbonate plastic panels. These are stronger and high-impact resistant.
  3. Allowing natural light: Polycarbonate plastic panels are transparent which allows natural light. If you are planning to panel the roof of your garden then polycarbonate is the right choice. PVC panels can be used to panel the shed roof.
  4. Cost-effective: PVC plastic panels are pocket friendly than polycarbonate plastic panels. If budget is a constraint and strength is not a concern PVC is an economical choice.
  5. Longevity and Durability: Polycarbonate is more UV rays resistant and does not get discolored making it a best choice for the areas with high sun exposure.

Consider all the specific needs and specifications and environmental conditions of your roofing area to make a choice between polycarbonate and PVC plastic panels.