Polycarbonate Hollow Sheet Canopy Case Analysis

Based on a mechanical structure with a span of 2.2 meters and an arch height of 0.4 meters, the arched design distributes loads evenly. Its load-bearing and wind resistance capacity is approximately 30% higher than that of flat-top canopies. The continuous-span design requires no intermediate columns, making it ideal for long and narrow sites and delivering high space utilization. In terms of drainage, the natural gradient of the arch combined with the lapped installation of polycarbonate hollow sheets, together with sealing using butyl tape or neutral adhesive and edge sealing with aluminum foil tape, ensures zero water accumulation and leakage, and also eliminates dripping noise.

The 6mm-thick polycarbonate hollow sheet balances excellent light transmission and durability. It provides soft and glare-free daylight, and is available in three colors to match various styles. Its impact resistance outperforms glass. Adopting modular prefabricated frames and direct lapping of panels during construction, this canopy costs less than glass canopies. Thanks to its light weight, no reinforcement of the base structure is needed.

The overall structure is lightweight. Composed of 6mm polycarbonate hollow sheets and square tube frames, it weighs far less than glass canopies. It is suitable for installation on balconies, terraces, parking spaces, corridors, courtyards and other areas, and compatible with most installation bases.

Modular installation is adopted: arched frames can be prefabricated into curved shapes, and continuous-span main beams can be spliced as required. Polycarbonate hollow sheets are fixed by direct lapping without complex welding, so the construction speed is faster than that of glass canopies.

Overall, it is a cost-effective solution featuring high load-bearing capacity, perfect waterproof performance, good light transmission, attractive appearance, fast installation and long service life, applicable to a wide range of outdoor scenarios such as balconies, passageways and courtyards.

This arched continuous-span polycarbonate hollow sheet canopy features Mexican-style aesthetics. It boasts a simple and innovative structure with strong practicality and superior waterproof performance. Arched canopies have better snow and wind resistance than flat-slope canopies made of the same materials. To sum up, it is a high-cost-performance option with strong load-bearing capacity, no water leakage, favorable light transmission, stylish look, quick assembly and long service life, fit for various outdoor spaces including balconies and passageways.

I. Main Structural Materials (Columns, Main Beams, Drainage Gutters, Polycarbonate Hollow Sheets)

Arch Frame

No arch frame is required for the design.

Main Beam Square Tube (Load-bearing Beam)

Material: Galvanized square tube. Specifications are upgraded according to the number of continuous spans. For example, 50×50×2mm is applicable for single-span or two-span structures; 60×60×2.5mm is recommended for structures with three or more spans.

Drainage Gutter

Material: Stainless steel gutter (bent from 1mm-thick stainless steel sheet).

II. Cladding Material (Polycarbonate Hollow Sheet)