FAQ

Polycarbonate Sheets

Can polycarbonate sheets be stored in direct sunlight during construction?

It's best to avoid leaving polycarbonate sheets out in the sun while you’re building. Each sheet comes with a protective film to keep it from getting scratched, but if the sheet is left in direct sunlight, the heat can bake that film onto the surface, making it almost impossible to remove without damaging the polycarbonate.

Can multiwall polycarbonate sheets be installed horizontally (channels running side-to-side)?

Nope! Multiwall polycarbonate has small internal channels that need to run vertically so condensation can drain properly. If the sheets are installed horizontally, moisture can build up, leading to mold and a cloudy appearance.

What kind of UV protection do your sheets have?

Our multiwall polycarbonate panels have a co-extruded UV-protective layer, meaning the UV protection is built into the panel during manufacturing rather than applied as a sprayed-on coating.

For our standard Twinwall and Triple Wall panels, the UV protection is on one side only. That side is identified by the printed or blue protective film and should always face the sun during installation.

Our 16mm 5X-Wall Storm Polycarbonate Sheet is the exception, with UV protection on both sides.

What side of the sheet is UV resistant?

The printed side is the UV-resistant side. If there’s no writing, look for the blue side. 

A handy way we suggest to tell which side is UV protected is to utilize a blacklight. The UV coating will glow under a blacklight.

What thicknesses of polycarbonate do we stock?

We’ve got you covered in both metric and standard:

  • 4mm (3/16”)
  • 6mm (1/4”)
  • 8mm (5/16”)
  • 10mm (3/8”)
  • 16mm (5/8”)
  • 25mm (1”)

Can polycarbonate sheets be used as hurricane panels for window protection?

Yes. Our 16mm 5X-Wall Storm Polycarbonate Sheets are a strong, lightweight, and reusable option for protecting windows in hurricane-prone and severe-weather areas. Compared with traditional plywood storm panels, polycarbonate is easier to handle and allows natural light into your home while the panels are installed.

Our 16mm 5X-Wall Storm Panels have been tested under Miami-Dade TAS 201, 202, and 203 protocols for large-missile impact, positive and negative wind pressure, and cyclic pressure loading. The tested panels were evaluated at +60/-60 psf design pressure and showed no penetration during large-missile impact testing.

For removable hurricane window protection, we recommend using the 16mm (5/8") panels with 5/8" PLYLOX Hurricane Window Clips, which are designed to secure panels inside recessed window openings without permanently drilling into the surrounding structure.

Important: Testing under Miami-Dade TAS protocols does not necessarily mean that a product or a specific installation is Miami-Dade approved, code-approved, or suitable for every structure or location. Building codes, design pressures, opening dimensions, fastening requirements, and installation methods vary by jurisdiction and project. Always confirm the appropriate panel size, installation method, fastening system, and applicable building-code requirements with your local building authority or a qualified building professional before using polycarbonate panels for hurricane or storm protection.

Polycarbonate Extrusions

What extrusion lengths do we stock?

8’ and 12’ lengths.

How does the H-Profile (Joiner Cap) work?

It’s used to join two sheets together lengthwise. You just slip the panels into the joiner to connect them.

Which side of the H-Profile (Joiner Cap) is the UV resistant side?

The UV protection is on the shorter side of the H-Profile (Joiner Cap)

How does end cap work?

End caps go on the exposed ends of your polycarbonate sheets. They allow water to drain out while keeping dirt and debris from getting inside. And don’t forget, the short side should be installed facing outward to protect from UV rays!

Hardware

Where do I use washer head screws?

You’ll need these when drilling through the panels into your framing.

What about gasket washers?

These are used when screwing directly through the polycarbonate panels. They help spread the pressure to avoid denting your polycarbonate.

Where should I apply caulk?

Caulk goes in the U-channel or end cap. Push the cap halfway in, run a small bead of silicone from left to right, then push the cap in the rest of the way.

Where does foam glazing go?

You’ll want to apply foam glazing anywhere the polycarbonate panels touch your framework. It helps create a snug fit.

What’s the recommended fastener spacing?

Fasteners should be spaced 8” - 12” on the joiners and 24” apart when screwing directly through the polycarbonate. Be sure to keep screws 6" in from the edges of each purlin support.

Ordering & Payment

Is my shipping rate correct?

Shipping estimates for freight items can sometimes be off when building your order online. Freight pricing depends on a lot of variables our system doesn't always capture accurately. If your quote looks high, low, or just unclear, reach out to our team. They'll check your order manually and get a precise quote directly from the freight company, so you can order with peace of mind.

Do you charge a fee for using a credit card?

We don't charge a fee for paying by credit card. The price you see at checkout is the price you pay.

We know some suppliers have started adding a surcharge for card payments, and customers ask us about it fairly often. That's not how we do things here.

Local Order Pickup

How long until my order is ready?

Is your order is set for local pick-up at our US location? Plan for your order of in-stock items to be ready for pickup within two (2) to three (3) business days.

We will email you when your order is ready for pickup, along with pickup instructions. Please bring your order confirmation email with you. Be sure to read below for how to prepare for local pickup.

IMPORTANT: If you are interested in purchasing polycarbonate panels in-person at our showroom, please call ahead to verify we have your items in stock. Inventory varies on a daily basis.

How does order pickup work? Where do I pickup?

Orders can be placed online, over the phone, or in person. All in-person payments and order changes are handled at our Mount Vernon Showroom.

Once your order is confirmed and ready, pickup takes place at our nearby warehouse in Burlington, WA.

Pickup Location (Warehouse):

Warehouse for Charley’s Greenhouse / Polycarbonate Store
669 Pease Rd
Burlington, WA 98233

Pickup Appointment hours: Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM

Pickup at the warehouse is by appointment only to ensure staff is available to assist you. Appointments are available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. Please coordinate your pickup time with your polycarbonate expert or by calling (888) 977-7659.

Showroom (In-Person Orders & Payments ONLY):

Charley’s Greenhouse & Garden Supply / Polycarbonate Store
17979 WA-536 
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
(888) 977-7659

Showroom hours: Monday-Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM

What should I know before picking up my polycarbonate order?

Your safety and the condition of your panels are our top priorities! Polycarbonate sheets are lightweight but still need a little TLC during transport.

How should I prepare for loading my polycarbonate sheets?

Make sure to have a clean area free of rocks and debris for loading. Since the sheets are individually loaded and not packaged, having clear, clean space is key.

How can I ensure my polycarbonate panels are transported safely?

Supporting the overall length of your polycarbonate panels is super important! If you don’t have a trailer the same length as your longest panel, a pick-up truck can do the trick. We suggest bringing along some 2” x 4” lumber or plywood sheathing for the panels to rest on or lean against.

What equipment should I bring for transporting polycarbonate sheets?

It’s always a good idea to plan ahead! Bring along red over-length flags if needed, adequate tie-downs, and something to protect your panels from scratches.

Will someone assist me in loading my order?

We’re more than happy to help you load your order! Just a friendly reminder: while we’re here to lend a hand, you’ll need to take charge of the tie-downs. Please make sure that you have safely secured everything before you leave our warehouse.

Motor Freight Delivery

What is motor freight delivery?

Motor freight delivery involves large semi-trucks bringing shipments to your location. Trucks need sufficient access, so special arrangements may be required if your address has hills, long driveways, or restricted access.

What does “residential delivery” mean?

For residential deliveries, the truck will arrive at your address, but unloading the shipment from the truck is not included. Be prepared to handle unloading yourself or arrange for additional services.

How will my shipment be packed?

Your polycarbonate panels will be packed in a sturdy wood crate, designed to protect the materials during transport. Crates may be flat or vertical and can include wood, cardboard, or a combination of both. Dimensions and weight depend on the order, with empty crates typically weighing 150 to 200 pounds.

How do I unload my shipment?

Since the truck bed is high off the ground and drivers are not required to assist, you’ll need to be ready to unload. There are two options:

  1. Forklift or Tractor: Use equipment with long extensions to remove the crate.
  2. Manual Unloading: Open the crate while it’s still on the truck and unload piece by piece. This method requires two or more people.

Are additional services available to help with delivery?

Yes, you can request additional services for a fee, such as:

  • Lift Gate Service: Lowers the crate to the ground.
  • Extra Helper: Provides help with unloading.
  • Inside Delivery: Moves the shipment inside your property.
  • Limited Access: Accommodates locations with restricted truck access.

Please let us know in advance if you require any of these services.

Will I know when my shipment will arrive?

Yes, you’ll receive a delivery window in advance. Ensure you or your helpers are available during this time to assist with unloading.

Can I change my shipping address after placing an order?

Unfortunately, shipping addresses cannot be changed once an order is placed. Your items may already be in transit, and changing the address would result in additional shipping fees and potential delays.

Please be sure to double-check your delivery address at checkout.

What if I have more questions or need special arrangements?

We’re here to help! Contact us with any questions or if you need assistance arranging special delivery services.

Still have questions?

Our knowledgeable experts are ready to help you with any questions you may have about our products.

Contact Us