Why Maintenance Determines Dome Lifespan
A rigid polycarbonate dome should last 10–15 years, but only with the right cleaning and care. Polycarbonate is tough — roughly 250× the impact strength of glass — yet it scratches more easily than glass, and scratches are permanent. This guide covers the cleaning products, the UV reality, and the annual checks that keep a dome looking new and safe.
What Damages Polycarbonate Glazing
- Abrasive cleaners — scouring pads and gritty powders leave permanent micro-scratches
- Solvent cleaners — ammonia, acetone, benzene and strong acids attack the surface and the UV layer
- Hard water deposits — calcium and mineral scale embeds into the surface over time
- Pressure washers on seals — high pressure drives water past gaskets and into fixings
- Bird droppings and tree sap — acidic residues etch the surface if left in the sun
The Correct Cleaning Routine
- Rinse first — plain water removes loose dust and grit before any wiping
- Use mild soap — dish soap or a dedicated plastic cleaner diluted in water
- Wipe with a soft cloth or sponge — microfibre is ideal; never paper towels or abrasive pads
- Rinse again — soap residue attracts dust if left to dry
- Dry with a soft cloth — or let it air-dry in shade to avoid water spots
Never use ammonia-based glass cleaners (e.g. window spray) on polycarbonate — it causes crazing (fine surface cracks) that cannot be repaired.
UV Care and Yellowing Reality
Domevora domes use co-extruded UV protection on the outer layer, with a 10-year warranty against yellowing and loss of light transmission. What buyers should know:
- Yellowing is not inevitable — with the UV layer intact, panels stay clear for the warranty period
- The UV layer is on the outside — never sand or scrape the outer face; that removes the protection
- Deep scratches expose the core — a scratch through the UV layer becomes a yellowing site over years
- Do not polish with compounds — buffing compounds can remove the UV layer; leave cosmetic scratches alone or replace the panel
Annual Maintenance Checklist
| Check | Frequency | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Panel surface | Quarterly | Scratches, crazing, yellowing spots |
| Gaskets and seals | Annually | Cracking, gaps, water ingress signs |
| Fixings and brackets | Annually | Loose screws, corrosion, thermal movement |
| Drainage and vents | Quarterly | Blocked channels, condensation build-up |
| UV layer integrity | Annually | Check with a UV meter if available |
| Structure and frame | Annually | Weld seams, coating damage, stability |
FAQ: Polycarbonate Dome Maintenance
Can I use window cleaner on a polycarbonate dome?
No. Ammonia-based glass cleaners cause crazing on polycarbonate. Use mild soap and water, or a cleaner explicitly rated safe for polycarbonate.
How long does a polycarbonate dome last outside?
10–15 years with UV-protected panels and regular maintenance. The UV layer carries a 10-year warranty against yellowing; structural life is longer.
Does polycarbonate yellow in the sun?
Only if the UV layer is damaged or absent. Domevora panels are co-extruded with UV protection, so yellowing is covered by the 10-year warranty under normal use.
How do I remove scratches from polycarbonate?
Minor scratches can be polished only with polycarbonate-specific compounds, and only on the inner face — polishing the outer face removes the UV layer. Deep scratches should be left or the panel replaced.
Do I need to protect the dome in winter?
Polycarbonate is cold-rated to −40°C and snow load is handled by the structure. Remove heavy snow build-up around doors and vents, and check seals after freeze-thaw cycles.
Get the Maintenance Guide for Your Dome
Every Domevora dome ships with a care sheet. For existing owners, contact us for the full maintenance manual and spare gasket kits.