5 Reasons Acrylic Patio Covers Beat Polycarbonate
One of the most important questions every homeowner is asking themselves is what type of patio cover to use when they want to expand or improve their outdoor area. At Star Construction WA we recommend acrylic patio covers over polycarbonate for some good reasons and this is what we will discuss in this post. Both types of cover are good and strong. They are used very often to cover patios, pergolas, sunrooms and other outdoor living areas, but we decided to stick with acrylic because it offers more clarity, it’s a little more durable, and it doesn’t fade over time.
Built Strong, it’s designed to offer protection from inclement weather and harmful UV rays, without blocking the natural light. Acrylic sheets are durable, 100% naturally UV stable and filter/soften harsh light. An Acrylic roof will retain 90% light transmission and clarity for about 30 years.
1. Exceptional Clarity and Natural Light Transmission
Acrylic patio covers transmit more natural light than polycarbonate. Acrylic transmits about 92% of light, polycarbonate only 88%. This means that with acrylic your patio will be brighter.
Star Construction WA’s acrylic covers are designed to maximize daylight without sacrificing protection from sun or rain, and to make your patio an enjoyable extension of your home year-round.
2. Superior UV Resistance and Long-Term Clarity
One of acrylic’s biggest advantages is its natural resistance to UV-induced yellowing over time. Unlike many polycarbonate products that can discolor with prolonged sun exposure, acrylic maintains clarity and appearance for decades.
Star Construction WA’s acrylic patio covers are engineered to retain clarity and light transmission for around 30 years, providing a long-lasting solution for homeowners who want a patio cover that looks great over time.
3. Better Scratch Resistance and Aesthetics
Acrylic’s surface finish is inherently more scratch-resistant and glossy compared to polycarbonate. This not only helps your patio cover stay looking newer longer but also contributes to a cleaner, more polished architectural look.
Since acrylic can be polished to a smooth finish and is easier to work with in custom applications, it also allows for more refined design options—making it a strong choice for homeowners who care about aesthetics as well as performance.
4. Cost-Effectiveness Without Compromise
Polycarbonate is about 25% more expensive than acrylic, and acrylic is even less expansive than glass. This is another goos reason why many homeowners are attracted to acrylic covers.
Star Construction WA provides competitive pricing and free installation quotes. We want to help homeowners find the right outdoor material for their budget and lifestyle.
5. Easier Customization and Installation
Because acrylic is easier to cut, bend, and form, Star Construction WA can tailor patio covers to your property’s unique shape and design. This fabrication flexibility also translates to easier on-site installation and cleaner integration with architectural features.
This adaptability ensures that your acrylic patio cover fits precisely, performs reliably, and complements the home’s exterior—all executed by Star Construction WA’s experienced installation team.
Why Work With Star Construction WA?
In addition to offering high quality, competitively priced acrylic patio covers in Seattle, at Star Construction WA we offer free installation quotes. Also contact us to receive full details about our Motorized Louvered Roofs, Motorized Retractable Screens and Custom Decks services for more upgrade ides for your patio.