Ph 0800 253 277 Mon–Fri 7:30am–5pm

ClearSpan Polycarbonate Sheet Cleaning and Maintenance Guide

Routine cleaning keeps panels clear and protects the UV layer and surface finish over the life of the system. This guide covers how to clean ClearSpan Polycarbonate sheet and its powder coated and anodised components, what to avoid, and who to contact if you are unsure.

Cleaned correctly and with the right materials, ClearSpan Polycarbonate sheet holds its clarity and performance for many years. The ClearSpan warranty conditions require that weather-exposed surfaces are washed free of accumulated dust and dirt at least twice a year — and more often on sites where dust, salt or grime build up quickly.

Please note: ClearSpan Polycarbonate sheet is non-trafficable. It must never be walked on, leaned on, or used to support scaffolding or any other access equipment.

Cleaning — ClearSpan Polycarbonate sheet

  • Soapy water and a soft microfibre cloth are all that is needed. Never scrub with force — pressure scratches the surface and voids the warranty.
  • Rinse the panel with clean lukewarm water before touching it, so loose dust and grit float away rather than being dragged across the sheet.
  • Use plenty of water with a drop of mild detergent. Microfibre traps dirt particles well, so rinse the cloth often. Work in light, straight strokes; circular scrubbing leaves visible swirl marks.
  • Skip white spirit and glass or window cleaners, including anything ammonia-based. They do not dissolve solid particles such as sand and dust, and can attack the surface and the UV protective layer.
  • A touch-free wash with a hose or water blaster is fine, provided the nozzle stays at least 500mm from the sheet.
  • Never use acetone, MEK or chlorinated solvents. These soften the surface and leave a permanent haze, and any damage caused is not covered by warranty.
  • For moss, mould, mildew, algae or lichen, seek advice on a suitable treatment from a specialist roof cleaning product supplier such as 30 Seconds, and follow the manufacturer’s application and safety instructions.

Cleaning — powder coated and anodised components

  1. Lift off any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge, taking care not to grind them into the finish.
  2. Wash with a soft, non-abrasive brush and a mild household detergent in warm water to remove dust, salt and other deposits. Do not use solvents.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with clean fresh water and towel dry.

Further powder coating guidance is available from Dulux Powders technical advice.

What to avoid

Avoid Reason
Acetone, MEK, benzene Solvent attack — causes crazing and irreversible hazing.
White spirit and mineral spirits Does not dissolve solid dirt; leaves residue behind.
Ammonia-based cleaners (most glass and window sprays) Chemical damage to the surface and the UV protective coating.
Dry wiping Micro-scratches from grit and dust particles.
Paper towels or rough cloths Abrasive fibres scratch the surface.
Circular scrubbing motion Creates visible swirl scratch patterns.
Water blaster nozzle closer than 500mm Can damage panels and coatings, or force water in at the edges.

Contact and support

If you are unsure about any part of these cleaning guidelines, check with the UGS technical team before you start. Email or call 0800 253 277.

Related documents

Need advice on a specific installation?

Our technical team can advise on cleaning products, panel replacement and warranty conditions.