Salty water and heavy impacts from the waves and tides are common issues in marine structures. These spaces also witness heavy traffic from incoming and outgoing ships and boats. Hence, any mediocre paneling solution is a complete no for the space. As a marina owner, you must look for durable and long-lasting solutions. Although FRP panels for marinas are popular, they are a temporary fix. 

FRP panels absorb moisture, resulting in dampness and contamination. Furthermore, they are high maintenance. They also need frequent repairs and replacements in challenging spaces like marinas. These aspects skyrocket the FRP pricing and burn a hole in the pocket. Thus, marina owners need to find a solution that ticks the boxes. Besides, marine structures also need protection against moisture, mold, and heavy impacts. 

In contemporary times, Duramax has introduced PVC marine wall panels. These panels are designed to last long and are exceptionally durable. Furthermore, they also offer resistance like no other. Hence, you can prevent dampness and contamination in marinas. In this blog, we will learn more about the Duramax PVC panels. But before that, let’s find out what makes FRP panels a temporary fix.

The challenges and disadvantages of using FRP panels for marinas

FRP panels are a popular wall paneling solution but have certain challenges. These panels are flimsy and require a backer board for installation. These boards are made from wood and absorb moisture. As a result, they end up with damp patches and rots over the years. Further, these panels also require regular and expensive maintenance. Here’s all that will make you regret installing FRP panels.

Absorbs moisture and dampens 

FRP panels are primarily moisture-resistant. But they require wooden backers for installation. These backer boards absorb moisture from the humid environment of marinas. Consequently, these boards dampen and start rotting in a few years. Hence, this calls for repairs or replacement to maintain a hygienic and dry space. As a result, it is better to look for a different option in place of FRP panels.

Crevices accumulate and promote mold

Besides, FRP panels have crevices in the surface from the joints. The grouts and adhesives offer enough space for moisture and mold to thrive. Hence, the result is mold and mildew growing on the surface of the panels. Thus, they contaminate the entire interior. Furthermore, the crevices also make them difficult and expensive to clean. 

Complicated installation is time-consuming

In the FRP vs PVC comparison, FRP panels have a relatively difficult installation process. They require additional backer boards to support them. Furthermore, you need adhesives to fix the panels on the boards. All this increases the expenses of the workforce and the materials. Hence, FRP panels have an expensive installation. As a result, they waste a lot of working hours. 

High maintenance and repairs

In addition to being vulnerable to moisture, FRP panels are also damaged from impacts. Hence, these panels are high maintenance and require frequent repairs and replacements. Hence, they are expensive and can bring unwanted halts to everyday activities. 

The privileges of choosing PVC panels for marinas

PVC panels are feature-loaded. And this is what makes them the ideal solution for marinas. They are a practical and versatile solution for marinas. Besides, these panels are exceptionally durable and long-lasting. They easily last a lifetime without much upkeep. Here’s how PVC panels make for a permanent and efficient solution for marinas. 

Non-porous surface does not absorb moisture

Unlike FRP panels, PVC panels are inherently moisture-resistant. They have a smooth and non-porous surface. As a result, they do not absorb moisture from the environment. Hence, there is no scope for dampness or other moisture-related damage. Furthermore, you can expect a damp-free and dry space in your marine structures.

Seamless surface eliminates the scope of mold accumulation

PVC panels interlock with each other to form a smooth and crevice-free surface. Hence, the absence of crevices also eliminates moisture, oil, dirt, or dust accumulation. As a result, it eliminates the chances of mold or mildew formation. Additionally, the seamless surface is easy to clean and is stain-resistant. 

Hygienic and meets the FDA standards

PVC panels adhere to the strict safety and hygiene standards of the FDA. As a result, they are CFIA and FDA-compliant. Moreover, these panels have also passed the quality test and are ASTM-certified. Additionally, they have an antimicrobial coating. This coating eliminates the risk of bacteria or other contaminants affecting the surface. Hence, you can also store food and drug products in the marinas without affecting their quality.

Unmatched durability requires low maintenance

Manufactured from virgin vinyl, PVC panels have unmatched durability. Hence, they do not rot, mold, fade, discolor, crack, or peel off over the years. Besides, they can easily endure excessive moisture exposure and heavy impacts. As a result, these panels do not require regular or expensive maintenance. On the contrary, they have minimal to no upkeep requirements. Furthermore, as these panels endure minimum damage, the repair and replacement needs are also lower. 

Lightweight and easy to install

Moreover, PVC panels are lightweight and ½” thick. Hence, they do not need an additional backer board for installation. So, these panels directly fit the walls with the help of studs and fasteners. Besides being lightweight, a single person can handle the installation efficiently. Additionally, these panels interlock with the tongue and groove method, making the installation fast and simple. Furthermore, they can save up to 40% on material and 50% on labor costs. 

Duramax PVC panels are available at factory-direct prices

Install PVC marine wall panels from Duramax. These panels are exceptionally durable and have a shelf life of 100 years. We also offer a limited lifetime warranty on these panels. Furthermore, our panels are available at factory-direct prices. Our panels are available at 16” width and ½” thickness. We also offer customization options for the panels. Ask for a free sample now!