Roof material question

[Paul Mc]

So, I'm trying to figure out what kind of material to use for the top of my share house to reduce the light only a tad but catch rain water to run it off into a gutter. I'm just not sure what material to use. Could anyone with some experience give me some ideas and thoughts?

[Arenalbotanicalgarden]

6 mil plastic.
Standard Clear Greenhouse Film, 6mil - Plastic Greenhouse Film | Greenhouse Megastore

[Paul Mc]

Thank you for the link!!!! Since I posted, I've been trying to find the material you suggested without much success! How much light does it cut down on though? If nothing, then I'll get some shade clothe and use that. I like the fact that this holds up so long.

[Paul Mc]

Oh, not at all what I was imagining. I need something preferably flat and relatively thin to screw on top, then I guess depending on what it is and how much (if any) light dissipates then apply the UVR. Here's the roof structure so you can see what I'm talking about.

[camille1585]

I remember reading about some shade material people recommended, and managed to dig up the thread. The stuff is called aluminet, Ray provides a link for it : http://www.orchidboard.com/community...duce-heat.html I don't know if you can do what you would like to with it...

[Ray]

I think you'll be better off with clear sheets of polycarbonate (my local Lowes carries them) for the roof, then adding shade.

If you have an idea of the depth of shade you need, courtesy of local growers or nurseries, you can put the shade cloth on the frame, then cover it with the rigid plastic.

[Paul Mc]

Thanks Camille! That would be a great option! Now to figure out the roofing material that would allow light in and be strong enough to drain the water from rains to a gutter and hold any debri from our tree on the top without damaging it.

[keithrs]

Corrugated fiberglass.

[Paul Mc]

Keithrs, I believe you had mentioned that to me before. How much light does it cut though, if any? My area is about 7000 footcandles at midday.

[Arenalbotanicalgarden]

Shade always goes on before the "plastic" or rain control item.