Polycarbonate is a strong, transparent plastic known for its high impact resistance and good light transmission. The material is up to around 200 times stronger than glass, yet considerably lighter, and retains its properties at both high and low temperatures. As a result, polycarbonate is widely used in situations where glass is too heavy, too fragile or too expensive.<\/p>\n
The key characteristics of polycarbonate at a glance:<\/p>\n
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- Highly impact-resistant and break-resistant<\/li>\n
- Light-transmitting, available in both clear and opal finishes<\/li>\n
- Lightweight and easy to work with<\/li>\n
- Resistant to UV radiation and the elements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What is the structure of polycarbonate multi-wall sheets?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Multi-wall sheets are made up of several layers of polycarbonate with hollow channels, also known as chambers, between them. These air chambers provide the insulating effect: the still air traps heat inside, thereby limiting heat loss. The thicker the sheet and the more channels it has, the higher the insulation value.<\/p>\n
A 40 mm hollow-core slab is one of the thickest types available. As a result, this slab offers maximum insulation combined with high light transmission, making it suitable for energy-efficient applications.<\/p>\n
What thicknesses are available?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Polycarbonate multi-wall sheets are available in various thicknesses, each offering a different balance between insulation, weight and light transmission. As a rule of thumb, the thicker the sheet, the higher the insulation value. At Kunststof Forte, you can choose from the following thicknesses:<\/p>\n
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- 4 mm<\/a> and 6 mm<\/a>: lightweight and compact, suitable for canopies, window frames and small greenhouses.<\/li>\n
- 8 mm<\/a> and 10 mm<\/a>: a good balance between insulation and weight; widely used in greenhouses and horticulture.<\/li>\n
- 16 mm<\/a>: high-performance insulation for demanding applications such as conservatories and skylights.<\/li>\n
- 32 mm<\/a> and 40 mm<\/a>: maximum insulation for energy-efficient applications, cladding and sports halls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Not sure which thickness is best suited to your project? Please feel free to ask for expert, bespoke advice<\/a>, we\u2019ll work with you to find the right choice.<\/p>\n
What does \u20182-, 3-, 4-, 7-, 9- or 10-walled\u2019 mean?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
The number of walls indicates how many layers of polycarbonate a multi-wall sheet is made up of, with hollow air chambers in between. A 3-wall sheet consists of three layers, whilst a 7-wall sheet consists of seven layers. Important to note: the number of walls is independent of the thickness. For example, a 16 mm sheet can be either 3-wall or 7-wall, whilst the total thickness remains the same.<\/p>\n
Photo: 3-wall polycarbonate multi-wall sheet<\/p>\n
Photo: 7-wall polycarbonate multi-wall sheet<\/p>\n
The difference between having more or fewer walls:<\/p>\n
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- More walls mean more air chambers, and therefore better insulation and greater strength.<\/li>\n
- Fewer walls generally let in a little more daylight.<\/li>\n
- The thickness primarily determines the overall insulation value, whilst the number of layers determines the distribution and balance within it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
In short: choose the thickness based on the desired level of insulation and the number of walls based on the balance between insulation, strength and natural light. If you\u2019re unsure which combination is right for your project, we\u2019d be happy to advise you.<\/p>\n
![\"7-wall](\"https:\/\/www.kunststofforte.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/237\/2026\/07\/3-wandige_polycarbonaat_kanaalplaat.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPhoto: 3-wall polycarbonate multi-wall sheet<\/p>\n
![\"7-wall](\"https:\/\/www.kunststofforte.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/237\/2026\/07\/7-wandige_polycarbonaat_kanaalplaat.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPhoto: 7-wall polycarbonate multi-wall sheet<\/p>\n
What are the properties of polycarbonate multi-wall sheets?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Polycarbonate multi-wall sheets combine four key properties, regardless of the thickness chosen:<\/p>\n
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- Excellent insulation: very high thermal insulation for energy-efficient applications.<\/li>\n
- Light-transmitting: allows plenty of daylight through for a natural light source.<\/li>\n
- UV-resistant: protected against discolouration and the effects of the weather.<\/li>\n
- Impact-resistant and durable: very high impact resistance and a long service life.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
This combination makes the panels ideally suited to situations where you want to retain both insulation and natural light, without compromising on strength.<\/p>\n
What can polycarbonate multi-wall sheets be used for?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Polycarbonate multi-wall sheets are used wherever light-transmitting and insulating building materials are required. Thanks to their low weight and high impact resistance, they are a versatile alternative to glass. The most common applications are:<\/p>\n
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- Canopies: commonly used for carports, patio canopies and verandas, usually made from 16 mm material.<\/li>\n
- Skylights: for extra daylight in roofs and industrial buildings.<\/li>\n
- Professional greenhouses: insulated and light-permeable for an optimal growing environment.<\/li>\n
- Facade cladding: a modern, translucent fa\u00e7ade with insulating properties.<\/li>\n
- Partition walls: light, sturdy and yet transparent.<\/li>\n
- Sports halls: plenty of natural light combined with high impact resistance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"Polycarbonate](\"https:\/\/www.kunststofforte.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/237\/2026\/07\/Polycarbonaat_kanaalplaat-400x400.avif\")
<\/p>\nMulti-wall sheets up to 10 metres: the dimensions at a glance<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Our polycarbonate multi-wall sheets are available in lengths from 1,000 mm up to and including 10,000 mm \u2013 that is, sheets up to 10 metres long \u2013 and are made to measure. This means you can have the sheets fitted precisely to your project, without unnecessary joints or waste.<\/p>\n
Specifications at a glance:<\/p>\n
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- Width: 1250 mm<\/li>\n
- Length: 1000 mm to 10000 mm (cut to size)<\/li>\n
- Thicknesses: 4, 6, 8, 10, 16, 32 and 40 mm<\/li>\n
- Colours: clear\/transparent and opal<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Are you unsure about the correct dimensions for your application? Please feel free to ask for expert, bespoke advice<\/a> before you place your order.<\/p>\n
What colours are available?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
The sheets are available in two colours, tailored to the desired level of light transmission. Choose clear\/transparent if you want to let in as much daylight as possible, for example in skylights and greenhouses. Choose opal if you want more diffused, subdued light and less direct visibility, for example for cladding or partition walls.<\/p>\n
How do you install polycarbonate multi-wall sheets?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Polycarbonate multi-wall sheets are installed by fitting the sheets, cut to size, into profiles, with the channels vertical and the UV-resistant side facing outwards. Correct installation prevents condensation, leaks and damage. The key points to bear in mind are:<\/p>\n
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- Position the panels with the channels running vertically, so that any condensation can drain downwards.<\/li>\n
- Make sure the UV-resistant side is facing outwards (towards the sun).<\/li>\n
- Seal the top with solid aluminium tape and the bottom with perforated (dust-proof) tape, so that moisture can escape but dust and insects are kept out.<\/li>\n
- Use U-sections at the top and bottom and H-sections between the panels.<\/li>\n
- Drill the screw holes slightly larger than the screw, so that the board can expand in response to temperature changes.<\/li>\n
- Do not overtighten the screws and use washers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
For a full, step-by-step guide, see the assembly video<\/a> below.<\/p>\n
- 8 mm<\/a> and 10 mm<\/a>: a good balance between insulation and weight; widely used in greenhouses and horticulture.<\/li>\n
- 4 mm<\/a> and 6 mm<\/a>: lightweight and compact, suitable for canopies, window frames and small greenhouses.<\/li>\n