Polycarbonate Roofing vs Metal Roofing: Which One Saves You More in the Long Run?

polycarbonate roofing

The Roofing Dilemma

When choosing roofing materials, property owners often debate between polycarbonate roofing and metal roofing. Both are widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial projects—but which one offers better long-term value?


At GB PLAS, we specialize in premium polycarbonate roofing solutions engineered to outperform traditional materials like metal, delivering superior durability, insulation, and cost efficiency.

Understanding the Materials

Metal Roofing – Commonly made from steel or aluminium, metal roofing is known for its durability and strength. However, it is prone to corrosion, noise issues during rain, and heat absorption in hot climates.


Polycarbonate Roofing
– A lightweight thermoplastic material, polycarbonate combines impact resistance, UV protection, and insulation. It is designed to withstand Malaysia’s tropical climate while reducing maintenance costs.

Polycarbonate vs Metal: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature
Polycarbonate Roofing
Metal Roofing
Durability
Excellent, impact-resistant, no rust
Strong, but rusts over time
Weight
Lightweight, reduces structural load
Heavy, needs strong support
Weather Resistance
High – UV and rain protection
Medium – prone to corrosion
Noise Level
Quiet, even during rain
Very noisy under rain or hail
Thermal Insulation
High (twin-wall/multi-wall options)
Low, conducts heat easily
Maintenance
Low – minimal cleaning required
Medium – anti-rust treatment needed
Design Flexibility
Clear, tinted, frosted, multiple colours
Limited to painted finishes
Cost Efficiency
High – long-term savings
Medium – higher upkeep

Long-Term Cost Savings

While metal roofing may appear cheaper initially, polycarbonate roofing delivers better long-term savings due to:

  • Reduced energy bills (thermal insulation lowers cooling costs).
  • Minimal maintenance (no rust, no repainting).
  • Longer lifespan in Malaysia’s tropical weather.

Conclusion: The Clear Winner

If you want a roofing solution that balances cost, performance, and design flexibility, polycarbonate roofing is the smarter investment.


At GB PLAS, our ISO-certified polycarbonate roofing materials are built for Malaysia’s climate, ensuring durability, style, and long-term value.

Contact us today for a quotation and discover why polycarbonate outperforms metal roofing in every way.

Polycarbonate Sheets

Polycarbonate Sheets (PC)

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