In No More Naked Pergolas! Part 1, we discussed our inspiration for creating plastic pergola covers. Our goal was to offer a solution for people to enjoy their pergola rain or shine without sacrificing their natural light. Thus, our Polygal Base and Cap System and Topgal Standing Seam System were born. Both systems use a multiwall polycarbonate sheet that comes standard with 10-year warranty that insures your material will stay looking great for years without yellowing or brittling. The sheets are lightweight and easy to install on new or existing structures, and once they're in place, they require less maintenance than similar products. Plus, the sheets block harmful UV rays which not only keeps you cooler, but it also protects your stained wood and furniture.
Now, let's break down some of the differences to help you pick the right system for your project.
Polygal Standard Grade (Economy)
- Sheets
- 4ft or 6ft wide
- 24ft long (28ft long in bronze)
- Color options include bronze, clear, and white.
- Polycarbonate base and cap connecting system
- Polycarbonate U-profile
- Screws & Washers
- Vent tape
- Installation instructions
- Youtube installation video
- Support from our inside / outside sales staff
- These sheets are extruded with a standing seam that:
- creates a virtually leak proof product
- is easily connected with clips and a heavy-duty polycarbonate cap
- makes it impossible to install the sheets upside down
- There are zero screws that are installed through the sheet which:
- creates a virtually leakproof product.
- makes it easier and faster to install
- The Topgal system has four walls of polycarbonate, instead of the standard two walls. This creates more:
- rigidity
- strength
- thermal insulation
- Topgal comes standard with an aluminum profile instead of a polycarbonate profile which:
- creates a much sturdier connection to the pergola below.
- looks sexier
- The sheets
- 23 5/8” wide
- 28ft long
- Color options include bronze, clear, and white.
- Standing Seam system connected with metal clips and a heavy-duty polycarbonate cap (screws through clips which hold sheet together, no screws through sheet)
- Aluminum edge profile (bronze and anodized colors)
- Screws for clips
- Vent tape
- Installation instructions
- Youtube installation video
- Support from our inside / outside sales staff
| Topgal (Elite) | Standard (Economy) | |
| Slope | Leak proof on any slope, but for best results we recommend at least a 1/12 slope | For best results, minimum 2/12 slope |
| Cost | Most expensive | Most cost-effective |
| Structure Type | Purlins | Rafters or Shade Slats |
| Sheet Structure | 4 Wall Structure | 2 Wall Structure |