A solid PVC sheet is composed of a resin-like compound of vinyl chloride and chlorine with high tensile strength. PVC is an inexpensive plastic substance derived from polyvinyl chloride and chlorine. It's widely used in residential products including window tinting, car body repairs, kitchen flooring, plastic doors, windows and many other uses. This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using PVC as a building material.
The main advantage of using PVC over wood, stone or tile is the much lower cost. A typical 4' by 8' PVC solid sheets can cost approximately $120. With a standard wooden frame, your patio can be covered approximately three to four times for approximately the same price, but the quality of the final product may vary depending on the supplier, grade of wood and other variables. The same general rule applies to the exterior of your home: the more expensive the frame the more expensive the finished project will be.
Another major advantage to using PVC over traditional materials is that it's much easier to clean. If you have a wooden deck, it's fairly easy to clean by wiping with a damp cloth or sponge. With a solid PVC sheet, you need to use a mild detergent (such as dish soap or Lysol) to clean the surface and then apply a borate-based marine wax to help weatherproof your material. This process should be repeated at least six to eight times to achieve the best results, especially on high traffic areas such as walkways, patios, steps, and decks.
Like most plastic products, there are some drawbacks to using PVC. One potential disadvantage is the thickness of the plastic sheets. While the thickness can't be counted on as being a factor in keeping the item secure, you should plan on having to touch up or refinish a damaged section. This is one of the reasons that it's a good idea to look into a custom or dealer's product details to get an idea of what to expect before ordering.
Another potential problem is that depending on the use of the item, there may be scratches or wear that can occur over time. This is something you'll need to take into consideration when comparing different manufacturers and their product details. Some suppliers offer to repair any damage you incur for free. Others do not. In the case of a costly item such as a new roof, for example, you'll likely want to consider paying the fee for the repair in order to ensure that the roof doesn't ever become a safety hazard or otherwise hinder the overall performance of your home.
Whether you're looking to buy a solid PVC sheet for use on your home or office, you need to make sure you know as much about the item as possible before making a purchase. This includes knowing what its construction is, whether or not it's certified as fireproof, the latest price for the product, and if it's guaranteed for water resistance. If you're dealing with a reputable supplier, they should be able to supply you with a few references to get feedback on the company's service and products. And of course, always remember to check the length of time that a manufacturer has been in business and inquire about how long they've been offering a warranty.