Ideas for designing a polycarbonate terrace

A terrace covered with polycarbonate offers natural light, protection from rain and wind, and a space you can enjoy in any season. Before you start, think about what you want your terrace to be like: shadier, very bright, or with a more constant temperature.

The material you choose will make all the difference. If you want quick installation and a more industrial look, you can opt for corrugated polycarbonate. For diffused light and better thermal insulation, multiwall polycarbonate is an excellent choice. If you prefer maximum clarity and high impact resistance, solid polycarbonate may be the right solution.

Don’t overlook the structure either. Wood brings a warm, natural feel, while metal offers rigidity and clean lines. Either option can work well if properly protected and dimensioned. Plan the roof slope, drainage system, and sun orientation from the start to avoid overheating in summer.

Color also matters. Transparent sheets allow more light, opal creates a soft visual effect, and bronze provides extra protection against sunlight. Additionally, the right fastening profiles, anti-condensation tape, sealed edges, and proper installation will extend the roof’s lifespan.

From our experience, details make the difference between an “okay” terrace and one you’ll love spending time on every day. We always recommend tested solutions, quality materials, and careful workmanship.

What Type of Polycarbonate Should You Choose for a Covered Terrace?

Before you buy, think about how you’ll use the terrace: only in summer or year-round? Will it be fully open or partially enclosed? The answer will guide you toward the right material.

In our projects, we mainly recommend polycarbonate in its three main forms: corrugated, multiwall, and solid — each with clear advantages in terms of light, insulation, and durability. We also offer other materials like plexiglass (acrylic), but for terrace roofs, polycarbonate remains the best choice.

Multiwall Polycarbonate (Cellular) offers balance between thermal insulation and diffused light.

Lightweight, with UV protection on one or both sides (depending on the model).
Available in various thicknesses and colors, including Click systems for clean vertical closures.
10-year warranty for our product ranges.
For terrace roofs, the usual thickness is 8–10 mm. For greater comfort and durability, we recommend 16 mm.

Solid Polycarbonate (Compact) offers glass-like clarity but is much more resistant.

UV protection on both sides, perfect for areas exposed to wind, hail, or impact.
Can be cold-bent, performs well under fire standards.
Available thicknesses: 2–15 mm.

Corrugated/Trapezoidal Polycarbonate is quick to install, with an industrial and modern look.

Compatible with standard metal profiles, lightweight, and impact-resistant.
UV-protected exterior layer and 10-year warranty.
Excellent for seasonal terraces, gazebos, pergolas, or carports.

How to Create Comfort in a Polycarbonate-Covered Terrace

A terrace covered with polycarbonate should be bright but not feel like a greenhouse. In our projects, the first step is orientation: for south-facing terraces, we usually recommend opal or bronze sheets; for north-facing ones, clear sheets work best.

Light diffusion depends on the material type: multiwall polycarbonate disperses light evenly, solid maintains full transparency, and corrugated adds a pleasant visual effect.

Recommended Colors for Comfort:

Clear: lets in maximum light, ideal for shaded areas.
Opal: soft diffusion, more even temperature in summer.
Bronze/Smoke: reduces glare and radiation without darkening the terrace.

Important Technical Details:

UV protection: extends lifespan and keeps panels clear.
No-drop/Anti-condensation coating: prevents visible water droplets on multiwall sheets.
Low weight: allows for lighter structures without compromising strength.
Fire resistance: panels comply with building standards for added safety.

Smart Combinations:

Click multiwall panels: for closing sides exposed to wind.
Solid panels: great for clear railings or windbreaks.
Corrugated panels: ideal for graphic effects, especially on metal pergolas.

Think of your terrace as an open-air room. The material, color, and light filtering should all support how you use the space.

What Makes a Polycarbonate-Covered Terrace Different?

A good roof depends not only on the quality of the sheet but also on how it’s installed. Plan the water flow from the start, use the right profiles, and don’t forget accessories: anti-condensation tape, seals, end caps, and washers. In short – good material deserves proper installation.

Tips for Correct Installation:

Install panels with the UV-protected side facing outward (if only one side is coated).
For multiwall panels, follow the direction of the internal channels.
Seal the edges; heat-sealed ends reduce condensation and dust buildup.
For corrugated or trapezoidal sheets, overlap correctly and use elastic fasteners to prevent leaks.
Choose thickness based on exposure: 8–10 mm for residential terraces, 16 mm for high-exposure or high-insulation areas.

Simple but Important Maintenance:

Wash occasionally with water and mild detergent, avoiding solvents.
Check fasteners and seals after harsh winters.
For multiwall panels, keep end caps and anti-condensation tape in good condition.

Choose Material Based on Use:

For impact-prone areas: solid polycarbonate.
For better thermal insulation: multiwall polycarbonate.
For quick installation on existing structures: corrugated polycarbonate.

Leave room for thermal expansion — use oval holes and elastic washers. This way, you’ll have a stable, quiet, and durable roof even during heavy rain.

Practical Ideas for a Polycarbonate-Covered Terrace

Once the roof is ready, it’s time to arrange the space. Divide the terrace into clear zones: a dining area, a relaxation corner, a spot for flowers or a barbecue. Polycarbonate brings in light, so keep the furniture light and pathways open.

Ideas That Work:

Zoning with panels: use opal multiwall panels on wind-exposed sides for privacy and comfort, and keep the roof transparent for brightness.
Adjustable shading: add fabric blinds or slats under the roof to control light on hot days.
Climbing plants: a trellis under the eaves offers natural shade and coolness without blocking the light.
Warm lighting: LED strips mounted around the perimeter reflect off the polycarbonate for a soft, even glow.
Comfortable flooring: composite decking or treated wood in neutral tones complement the transparency of the roof.

For commercial spaces, combine solid polycarbonate in high-traffic areas with multiwall panels for large surfaces – this ensures durability and energy efficiency. For lightweight pergolas, annexes, or carports, corrugated polycarbonate is quick to install and looks great with slim metal profiles.

If you need personalized ideas, our team is just a message away. We’ll help you transform any project into a durable, practical, and beautiful space!

Request a personalized quote!
We offer technical advice, recommendations for the right thicknesses and colors, and all necessary fastening systems. You’ll have everything you need for a beautiful and long-lasting project.