Code 3 Cast Lead - 850mm x 6m 
A pergola is a garden structure that creates a shaded area. This can be over a path, a standing area or benches and tables, in which case it can also be called an arbour. For many large and medium sized gardens pergolas can be a genuinely valuable investment.
However, most modern pergolas require some sort of roofing. Sometimes this can be made out of wood or another material, but the top of the line option is translucent polycarbonate sheets. These sheets combine a high level of light transmission, a waterproof nature and durability far superior to glass. Fortunately, at ERoofing, we offer Clear Amber’s Axiome sheeting. Made of multiple thin sheets joined together, these are lightweight but also impressively strong. So which sheets are most appropriate for pergolas?Â
Thickness
Axiome polycarbonate roof sheets are available in many different sizes. For pergola roofs, the very thin sizes, 4mm and 6mm, are too small and light, while the very largest, like 25mm and 35mm, are too big and bulky. In general 10mm polycarbonate twinwall is the standard for pergolas, the appropriate balance of size and durability.Â
This is because polycarbonate sheeting is extremely lightweight. This may potentially make it vulnerable to wind updraft. Normally 10mm polycarbonate is big enough that it can handle external use. However, in particularly windy and rainy areas, 16mm polycarbonate triplewall may be used instead.Â
Tint Level
Depending on how much light transmission you want, you may need to investigate the differences between the different types of Axiome tint. The standard clear variety is translucent and provides a high level of light transmission. Then there is Bronze Axiome, which has a bronze tint that heavily reduces light transmission. Finally, there is Opal Axiome, which resembles frosted glass and strikes a balance.
The type of tint can also seriously impact the aesthetics. The smoky tint of Bronze might provide a retro feel for instance. The frosted Opal shade might also appeal to people. Different colours might look better with different post materials and plants as well.Â
Tint may also be a factor if you are training vines. More shade might help protect the vines growing up the columns. Some vines may be negatively affected by too bright sunlight, or be better suited to growing in the shade.Â
Glazing Bar Options
We also sell Clear Amber’s fantastic series of glazing bars if you’re looking for a secure way to mount your polycarbonate sheets. The Snapa glazing bars are easy to install and cost-effective, while ALUKAP-XR are ultra secure and made of durable aluminium. ALUKAP-SS even has a self-support system and can come with specially designed aluminium posts. Regardless of the type of pergola you’re looking to build, we have the glazing bars for you.
