As indoor agriculture continues to evolve, grow room design is rapidly advancing to meet the demands of both hobbyists and commercial growers. In 2025, efficiency, hygiene, and sustainability are no longer optional; they’re essential. One of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of any grow room is the choice of wall material. Traditional options, such as drywall or FRP panels, once dominated indoor grow spaces. But, a modern, high-performing contender is quickly becoming the favorite: grow room vinyl panels.

So, what’s the best wall material for growing rooms in 2025? Let’s dive into the options and explore why vinyl panels are leading the way.

The challenge with traditional wall materials

Grow rooms are high-moisture, high-maintenance environments. The constant humidity, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to fertilizers and chemicals create conditions that traditional materials often struggle to handle over time.

Drywall

Drywall is highly absorbent. This makes it prone to mold, mildew, and rot. Particularly in grow rooms where humidity levels are high. Once moisture penetrates the surface, the drywall starts to deteriorate, which can lead to compromised crop safety and expensive repairs.

FRP or fiberglass reinforced panels

Grow room FRP panels are a step up from drywall in terms of water resistance, but they have their own set of problems. Over time, FRP panels tend to delaminate, particularly in environments with frequent temperature fluctuations and high moisture levels. The seams require caulking, which can degrade and allow bacteria and mold to grow in the crevices.

Enter vinyl panels: The 2025 favorite

Vinyl wall panels have quickly emerged as the preferred wall material for growing rooms in 2025. Here’s why they outperform traditional options:

100% moisture resistance

Vinyl panels are completely waterproof. Unlike drywall, they won’t absorb moisture, swell, or support mold growth. This is especially critical for grow rooms, where condensation, irrigation systems, and ambient humidity create a constantly damp environment.

Smooth, seamless finish

Vinyl panels feature interlocking tongue-and-groove edges, ensuring a seamless and smooth surface. This not only gives the grow room a clean, professional look but also reduces the chance of bacteria and mold buildup in hard-to-clean joints.

Easy to clean and sanitize

Cleanliness is essential in growing rooms. Vinyl panels offer non-porous, smooth surfaces that are easy to wipe down and sanitize. They resist staining and do not harbor dust, mold spores, or chemical residues, making them ideal for maintaining a sterile growing environment.

Chemical and impact resistance

Grow rooms often involve handling fertilizers, pesticides, and equipment. Vinyl panels are resistant to chemical damage and can withstand light to moderate impacts without cracking or chipping. They’re tough enough to take a beating but flexible enough to avoid catastrophic damage.

Fast, hassle-free installation

Vinyl panels have an interlocking design for quick installation over various substrates. With fewer components and no need for painting or finishing, growers can transform a space into a fully operational grow room in less time and with less labor.

Hygienic and safe 

Vinyl panels offer excellent hygiene and safety. Vinyl grow room walls adhere to strict hygiene standards and are CFIA and FDA-compliant. They also have an antibacterial coating to prevent bacterial and microbial infestation. Further, they are class-1 fire-resistant and can endure an hour of fire and flame without damaging or releasing toxic gases. 

 Long-term cost savings

While the upfront cost of vinyl panels may be slightly higher than drywall or FRP panels, their durability, low maintenance, and longevity make them a cost-effective investment. You won’t need to replace panels due to water damage or mold, and you’ll spend less on cleaning and repairs.

Real-world use case: Why growers are switching to vinyl panels

Many commercial cannabis and hydroponic operations have already made the switch. For instance, a vertical farm in California reported a significant reduction in cleaning time and a decrease in contamination-related crop loss after switching from FRP to vinyl panels.

These growers also noted how much easier it became to control indoor conditions. From temperature regulation to light reflection, thanks to the impressive features of PVC panels. Their smooth and reflective surface evenly distributes light in the interiors, making the space bright and well-lit to support photosynthesis. 

Duramax: The one-stop solution for ASTM-certified vinyl panels 

Duramax is the leading manufacturer and supplier of vinyl panels in the USA. Made from 100% virgin vinyl, Duramax cannabis grow room walls are inherently moisture-resistant and anti-mold. These panels undergo rigorous quality checks for ASTM certification. They are available at ½” thickness, 16” width, and can be customized to various lengths. Duramax delivers the panels nationwide at factory-direct prices and a limited lifetime warranty. Ask for a free sample now!

Final thought: Vinyl panels are the future

In 2025, there’s no room for outdated materials in grow room construction. With the rising demand for hygienic, efficient, and long-lasting grow environments, vinyl panels check all the right boxes. They outperform drywall and FRP in virtually every important category, including moisture resistance, hygiene, durability, and cost efficiency.

Whether you’re retrofitting a home grow space or building out a commercial indoor farm, grow room vinyl panels are not just a smart choice; they’re the ideal one for growing room walls in 2025. Ready to grow smarter? Consider switching to vinyl wall panels and watch your crops and efficiency thrive.