Before you start
Check the care instructions supplied with your installed roof. Clearview uses solid polycarbonate panels; do not assume a glass-cleaning product or scraper is suitable. Confirm any coating-specific requirements with Alpoco if the product or its care instructions are unclear.
Never stand or walk on the panels. If the surface or gutter cannot be reached safely, arrange suitable professional access. Do not lean a ladder against a panel or improvise access across the roof.
The gentle-cleaning sequence
Illustrative steps for a safely accessible surface. Never stand on the roof panels.
1 · Rinse
Gently rinse away loose dirt before touching the surface.
2 · Wash softly
Use approved mild detergent and a clean, soft sponge or cloth.
3 · Rinse clean
Rinse off the soap with clean water; follow the supplied care instructions.
A gentle cleaning approach
- Choose a cool surface. Avoid cleaning in direct, hot sun, when soapy water can dry quickly.
- Rinse loose dirt first. Use a gentle flow of clean water rather than rubbing dust into the surface.
- Wash softly. Where the supplied care instructions allow it, use lukewarm water, mild dishwashing detergent and a clean, soft sponge or cotton cloth. Use light pressure.
- Rinse thoroughly. Remove the soap with clean water. If drying is needed and safely accessible, use a clean, soft cloth.
Test the approved method on a small, unobtrusive area first. For stubborn marks, ask for advice rather than escalating to a stronger chemical or abrasive.
What to avoid
Avoid dry rubbing, abrasive pads, stiff brushes, razor blades and scrapers. Do not use a pressure washer or assume that solvents, strongly alkaline cleaners or household glass cleaners are compatible with the panel surface.
Do not remove fixings, disturb seals or take apart roof components to clean them. A leak, loose component or damaged panel calls for an inspection, not more aggressive washing.
Keep drainage in the maintenance plan
Look for leaf build-up at accessible roof edges and gutters, especially near trees. Blockages and surface dirt are different tasks: a clean-looking panel does not establish that the gutter and discharge route are clear.
Ask at handover how the gutter can be accessed and which maintenance tasks are appropriate for you. If water is overflowing, take photos from a safe position and contact Alpoco rather than climbing onto the roof to investigate.
How often does it need cleaning?
There is no single interval that suits every patio. Nearby trees, wind-blown debris, local dust and safe access affect what is practical. Check for visible build-up and follow the maintenance schedule supplied for your installation.
Before installation, it is worth discussing how an enclosed side passage, high roof or dense planting will affect future access. The comfort and weather guide covers other questions to confirm in writing.
Care references
The general method above is consistent with Palram’s polycarbonate care guidance (PDF) and its SUNSCAPE cleaning instructions (PDF). These are material-care references, not identification of the supplier of your Clearview panels. The instructions for your installed panel and coating take precedence.