Garden Shed Roof Replacement with Suntuf Panels

[Durgan]

Garden Shed Roof Replacement with Suntuf Panels
http://www.durgan.org/URL/?BNPIX 21 September 2009 Shed Roof Replacement with Suntuf Panels.

In 2004 a shed was build and typical PVC panels were used for the roof. Similar to Palruf, but am not certain of the name at this time. It may even had been Palruf. This was desired for having ample light in the shed. The material went through about two seasons then it got brittle and cracks appeared. Clearly this material is almost useless for building. The roof was replaced with Suntuf, which is supposed to have a long life and is UV resistant. Both products appear flexible and strong when new. Suntuf is about $50.00 for a 2 by 12 foot sheet, whereas the old PVC panel is about $30.00 for a similar sized sheet.

[melodyelf]

thanks for the info, Durgan. good to know in case I ever get to build a garden shed or something.

[Durgan]

The trade names change constantly, and Home Depot sells Suntuf , and Lowes sells Tuftex. My observation is they are exactly the same even as to price. These panels have the exact appearance as the older Lexan Polycarbonate panels. The internet use to be full of Lexan advertising. Now it is hard to fine much on the product. It is possible that the company has been bought out.

I built a greenhouse out of Lexan corrugated panels about 12 years ago and it is still standing-not mine now.

When initially roofing this shed, I mused about buying the more expensive panels and chose the ones depicted in the pictures instead, since maximum light transmission was not the objective.

The panels were not broken by impact. They simply cracked in various places due to weather. Probably chemical action due to sunlight exposure.

Observation, indicates that the better panels have angular ribs as opposed to the cheaper, common wavy type.

I am extremely annoyed that the panels used turned brittle.

[TheWormLady]

We used Suntuf on our small greenhouse, for the sidewalls but not the roof. It has held up very well, we built in 1998. There has been no discoloration or cracking. I would be happy to use it again.

[Train]

Ya
Mighty fine Durgan.
I wish for your sake you could
have replaced them with solar
panels.
Wishful thinking I know.
Train

[ricaroofers]

Palruf are hardly used as shed roof because it easily gets brittle and will not last long, also don't you think palnuf just sounds like the same with suntuf? But the bottom line here is that, no roof will last forever. All roof usually needs constant repair. Roofing Companies

[Durgan]

Originally Posted by Train

Ya
Mighty fine Durgan.
I wish for your sake you could
have replaced them with solar
panels.
Wishful thinking I know.
Train

The power output form a small solar panel is almost useless. When a reasonably sized panel can deliver 110 volts at 15 amps (1500 watts) I will be in the line-up to purchase. It might drive my electric drill when working out side, or my electric lawnmower.

[MichiganderGardener]

Thanks for the pics Durgan,

My friends have a huge greenhouse and used the Suntuf on the roof. It has held up really well . The hubby and I plan on building a greenhouse this summer and using the Suntuf on roof as well. The walls will be made w/used Glass Windows and Doors, we have been collecting for about 7 years now..

[Cliff Timmons]

Is that just single walled?