
Hanging plastic sheets from the ceiling is a great way to protect walls from paint or debris during remodelling and renovation projects. There are several methods to hang plastic sheets from the ceiling, including using tape, nails, thumbtacks, and plastic wall hangers. When using tape, apply it along the edge of the plastic sheet, sticking half to the sheeting and half to the ceiling. For nails and thumbtacks, find a beam that extends across the area you want to cover and space out your nails or thumbtacks approximately every foot. Plastic wall hangers are another efficient option that saves labour and installation time while holding everything in place.
Characteristics and Values Table for Hanging Plastic Roof Sheets
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Plastic sheets, rope, gorilla tape, polycarbonate sheeting, corrugated plastic panels, blue painter's tape, thumbtacks, plastic wall hangers, command adhesive picture hanging strips, nails, rafters, ceiling grid systems, beam, clamps, boards, C clamps, construction screws, corrugated sheets, roof closure strips, drip edge, protective films, stickers, rubbing alcohol |
| Installation Steps | Determine the cut length of the panels by measuring from the top of the top purlin to the bottom of the bottom purlin. Remove any protective films, stickers, or residue from the surface of the panels. Clean the panels thoroughly. Stick the plastic to the ceiling using tape, ensuring half the tape is on the sheeting and half on the ceiling. Attach the corners of the plastic sheeting to the tape and let it hang. Curl the tape back on itself and stick the sheeting to the remaining adhesive. Press the sheeting firmly against the wall for 30 seconds on the top and bottom. Secure the strips on the ceiling by peeling the sheeting off from the bottom, pressing each strip firmly for 30 seconds, and allowing one hour for the adhesive to fully bond. Realign the strips and attach the sheeting carefully. Put nails in the rafters to hang plastic from an unfinished ceiling, hammering a nail approximately every foot. Remove nails when replacing the plastic. Attach the plastic using thumbtacks, inserting them through the plastic and into the ceiling about one foot apart. Utilize plastic wall hangers to boost efficiency and protect work surfaces. Clamp plastic to the roof beams, wrapping it around boards and stapling to hold it in place. Install the drip edge to protect the roof's edges from water damage. |
| Considerations | Ensure the tape is thick painter's tape for added strength and that it won't damage the ceiling surface when removed. Test the tape first elsewhere to ensure it doesn't remove paint from the ceiling. Consider the spacing between purlins and their attachment to the rafters, following the load support chart that comes with the polycarbonate sheeting. Account for temperature changes and the expansion and shrinkage of the plastic roofing material. Correctly install purlins to ensure the corrugated sheets fit into the roof closure strips. |
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What You'll Learn

Using tape
When hanging plastic roof sheets, the type of tape you use is important. Polycarbonate sheet tape, also known as Anti-Dust Tape, Filter Tape, Breather Tape, or aluminium foil tape, is commonly used to seal the edges of polycarbonate roofing sheets. This type of tape helps to create a barrier against physical debris, such as bugs and dirt, and can be used on sheets with thicknesses of 10mm, 16mm, 25mm, and 35mm.
To install polycarbonate sheet tape, first ensure that the surface is clean and dry. Peel back the protective film on both sides of the sheet, approximately 50mm at the end where you will be installing the tape. Start sticking the tape to one edge of the sheet, working across from one side to the other. When you reach the opposite edge, extend the tape by approximately 25mm, then trim it with scissors or a knife.
Next, carefully fold the tape over the edge of the sheet and stick it down onto the other side, working from one side to the other again. Seal the tape neatly around the corners on both sides. If you need to join two pieces of tape in the middle of a panel, ensure there is a minimum overlap of 25mm between them.
Finally, install an End Stop Bar or PVC Drip Trim over the taped edge to complete the sealing process. This step is important because while tape can help with sealing and creating a dust barrier, it does not replace the need for a proper sheet closure.
In addition to polycarbonate sheet tape, other types of tape can be used for hanging plastic roof sheets. Blue painter's tape, for example, can be used to stick plastic sheets to the ceiling during renovation projects. This type of tape won't damage the ceiling surface when removed and provides a strong hold, especially when using thicker varieties.
When hanging plastic sheets for dust containment, some people have used painter's tape, but it is not ideal. Other options include double-sided poly tape, such as ShurTape, and single-sided poly hanging tape, such as the Dolphin brand.
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Nailing to rafters
When hanging plastic sheets from the ceiling, nailing them to the rafters is an option. This method is suitable for unfinished ceilings. Before starting, ensure you have the necessary tools and safety equipment, such as a hammer, nails, protective eyewear, and work gloves.
Firstly, locate a beam that extends across the area you want to cover with the plastic sheeting. This beam will provide structural support for the nails and plastic sheets. It is important to ensure that the beam is strong enough to bear the weight and tension of the plastic sheets.
Once you have identified the beam, measure and mark the locations for the nails. The nails should be spaced approximately one foot apart along the beam. This spacing will ensure even weight distribution and provide a secure hold for the plastic sheets.
After marking the nail locations, use a hammer to drive the nails into the beam. Drive the nails partially into the beam, leaving enough space to hang the plastic sheets. Be careful not to hammer the nails all the way in, as you will need to remove them later when you want to take down the plastic sheets.
Now, you can hang the plastic sheets. Place the plastic sheets over the nails, ensuring that the sheets are securely held in place. Check that the sheets are taut and adjusted properly.
Finally, if needed, you can use a nail gun to drive the nails completely into the beam. A nail gun will ensure that the nails are firmly in place. Remember, if you need to remove the plastic sheets, simply pull out the nails using the appropriate tools.
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Plastic wall hangers
There are several types of poly hangers available, each designed for specific applications:
- Poly Hanger 1: This hanger slips behind wall molding and is supported by the vertical leg of the molding. It can also be used with masonry or paneling by nailing into a joint that can be easily patched later.
- Poly Hanger 2: Designed to clip over the horizontal leg of acoustic ceiling wall molding, providing a firm grip for plastic sheeting.
- Poly Hanger 3: Supports vertical plastic sheeting and can be used for building full containments, connecting tunnels, and dust curtains. It is installed over a pin and secured with a removable retainer.
- Poly Hanger 4: Similar to Hanger 3 but includes a 10" cable release tie, allowing attachment to various components.
When using plastic wall hangers, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary safety precautions. Additionally, proper surface preparation is crucial to ensure the hangers adhere securely and effectively.
In addition to plastic wall hangers, there are alternative methods for hanging plastic sheeting, such as using tapes (blue painter's tape, green tape, double-coated tape), nails or thumbtacks, command adhesive picture hanging strips, duct tape, or construction adhesives. It is important to consider the specific requirements of your project and choose the most suitable method.
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$16.55 $19.99

Thumbtacks
However, for heavier or thinner plastic sheets, thumbtacks may not provide enough support and may rip through the plastic. In such cases, it is recommended to reinforce the plastic with clear shipping tape folded over the edge before inserting the thumbtacks. Additionally, using more thumbtacks than usual, such as placing them every 6 inches, can help distribute the weight more evenly and reduce the risk of ripping.
When using thumbtacks, it is important to consider the surface of the ceiling. If the ceiling is made of a material that can be easily pierced by thumbtacks, such as wood or drywall, then this method can be effective. However, if the ceiling is made of a harder material, such as concrete or metal, thumbtacks may not be able to penetrate the surface, and other hanging methods should be considered.
After removing the plastic sheets, the thumbtacks can be taken out, leaving small holes in the ceiling. These holes can be filled with putty that matches the colour of the ceiling to conceal them. This process ensures that the ceiling remains undamaged and preserves its original appearance.
Overall, thumbtacks can be a viable option for hanging plastic roof sheets, especially for lightweight sheets, but it is important to consider the weight and thickness of the plastic, the type of ceiling surface, and the potential need for reinforcement or additional thumbtacks to prevent ripping.
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Clamps
Another way clamps can be utilised is during the cutting process of the plastic sheets. When using a saw to cut the sheets, clamping the sheet down can help stabilise it, resulting in cleaner and straighter cuts. It is important to use the right tools for the job, and wearing gloves and safety glasses is recommended when working with plastic roofing sheets.
Additionally, clamps can be used in conjunction with other hanging methods. For example, when stapling plastic sheets to the underside and topside of joists, clamps can help hold the sheets in place while stapling, ensuring a secure fit. Clamps can also be used with other fasteners like nails or screws to hold the sheets in place temporarily while creating more permanent attachments.
When using clamps to hang plastic roof sheets, it is important to consider the weight and tension placed on the clamps and sheets. Distributing the weight and tension appropriately will help prevent tearing or damage to the sheets and ensure the stability and safety of the structure.
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Frequently asked questions
To hang plastic roof sheets without them tearing, you can use a combination of rope, tape, and clamps. First, wrap the plastic around a board (2x4) and secure it with staples. Then, use C clamps to attach the board to the roof beams. Alternatively, you can use rope to suspend the sheets and tape to secure the edges.
Blue painter's tape is recommended for hanging plastic roof sheets as it won't damage the ceiling surface when removed. Thicker tape will provide added strength. Other options include green tape and double-coated tape.
Thumbtacks are a good option for hanging plastic roof sheets because the material is lightweight. Insert a thumbtack through the plastic and into the ceiling every foot or so. Use fewer thumbtacks if the sheeting is particularly lightweight.
Before hanging, remove any protective films and stickers from the surface of the panels. Use an adhesive remover and a scrub brush to remove any stubborn stickers. Clean the panels to ensure they are clear.
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