College courtyard renovation features polycarbonate sheet for aesthetics and durability

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Dec 28, 2016

At the heart of the Stanton campus of Delaware Technical Community College is a new and renovated courtyard that provides students a place to congregate and relax. The centerpiece of the courtyard is an eye-catching and protective canopy with polycarbonate sheet that transforms the formerly underutilized area into an attractive and functional space. EXTECH/Exterior Technologies, Inc. provided the surface mounted canopy system and turned to Covestro LLC for a polycarbonate sheet glazing material that met the project requirements.

EXTECH needed a lightweight glazing material for its 3300 Series Canopy System that met a variety of project specifications, including building code regulations and improved sight lines while reducing metal framing. Makrolon®UV polycarbonate sheet in white from Covestro met these requirements while also offering lightweight, durable, light diffusing and glare reduction qualities.

The courtyard canopy was originally designed with glazing panels subdivided by cross mullions. “By working with Covestro to evaluate materials and selecting Makrolon®UV polycarbonate sheet, we could eliminate the cross mullions in the canopy design. The full-length glazing solution greatly improved the aesthetic character and provided leak-resistant protection,” said Jim Leslie, General Manager, EXTECH.

Makrolon®UV polycarbonate sheet is lighter than laminated glass, which makes it easier to cut and install. The canopy’s shape features two large sweeping curves, which required each glazing panel to be cut to a unique angle. EXTECH used a variety of straight line saws and CNC equipment to cut the sheets and form the end angles.

“Many municipal codes for canopies require high impact, wind and snow load resistance. By specifying this grade of polycarbonate sheet, EXTECH could meet these requirements. The properties of the polycarbonate sheet, combined with a sleek design, create an impressive and welcoming courtyard for the campus,” said Thomas Niziolek, architectural segment manager – Polycarbonate Sheet, Covestro LLC.

Compared with acrylic and glass, Makrolon® UV polycarbonate sheet has a higher impact resistance for extended service life and exceptional weatherability. In addition, the transparent sheet offers advanced UV resistance technology that assures long-lasting performance.

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