Do you need to determine how PVC compares to FRP as a wall covering? PVC wall panels hold better advantages than FRP panels. Since its invention in the 1960s, contractors, and entrepreneurs have relied on FRP as a wall cladding solution. However, the demand for PVC panels increased since FRP wall panels involve expensive maintenance, elaborate cleaning procedures, and complex installation. PVC panels are lightweight, inexpensive, and moisture-resistant, better suited for all damp commercial areas.
In this blog, we shall discuss the major differences between FRP and PVC to help you make a better decision.
PVC Panels Have Moisture Resistant Properties, FRP Doesn’t
One of the major perks of choosing PVC panels over FRP is that they are moisture-resistant. PVC panels’ seamless surface restricts moisture seepage, stopping mold and mildew growth. PVC’s moisture-resistant properties make them an ideal wall-covering solution for moist commercial spaces like dairy parlors, shipping containers, bathrooms, marinas, dog kennels, basements, etc. FRP panels absorb moisture, making it easier for bacteria and fungi to grow on them. Therefore, PVC panels are better wall-covering solutions than FRP panels for commercial spaces that must adhere to stringent cleanliness and hygiene standards. PVC panels don’t need a backer like plywood to support when installed, prohibiting water absorption.
PVC Panels Have Anti-Mold Coating; FRP Panels Cannot Resist Mold and Mildew
Moist and wet areas favor mold and mildew growth. Moisture-filled commercial places like car wash arenas, shower cubicles, commercial kitchens, restaurants, etc, are more prone to mold growth. And while you can always rely on dehumidifiers to keep the moisture level in check, they are not permanent solutions. Using an antimicrobial-coated vinyl panel is a better solution. The anti mold covering helps PVC panels combat bacterial and fungal growth on your commercial walls, keeping them hygienic for years. The FRP wall board has no such coating and is unsuitable for commercial facilities, especially if you want a mold-free interior.
PVC Panels Have a Better Lifespan Than FRP Panels
Apart from water-resistant properties, entrepreneurs look for a wall paneling solution that can last longer. Entrepreneurs might have used FRP panels for decades, but their limited 25-30 years lifespan makes them a poor preference for commercial facilities. On the contrary, PVC panels can live for over a century without any callbacks.
PVC Panels Are Easy to Wash; FRP Panel Cleaning is Time-Consuming
When searching for a wall covering, one must always look for the easy-to-clean feature. PVC panels don’t need frequent cleaning to stay dirt-free. Soaking a cloth in water and soap and wiping the panel can give it a shining appearance. Conversely, FRP panels need regular scrubbing with harsh abrasives for a clean look. PVC panels’ seamless surfaces don’t let dirt, debris, and mold settle on them, cutting down your cleaning time. However, the FRP panels’ mold and dirt removal process is complex and time-consuming since they have a rough surface.
PVC Panels Include a Straightforward Installation; FRP Panel Installation is Complex
Another disadvantage of using the FRP panel is its complex installation. Since it was invented long ago, no modern installation technique supports FRP panels. PVC panels feature a unique interlocking tongue and groove technology that speeds up the installation procedure and eliminates the need to hire more than one installer. PVC panels are directly attached to the walls with the help of fasteners and studs, whereas FRP panels are joined using adhesives, which makes the process tedious and strenuous. Additionally, FRP panels need wooden backers, additional tools, and multiple laborers for installation. By choosing PVC over FRP, you can save 40% on material costs and 50% on labor charges.
PVC Panels are Eco-Friendlier than FRP Panels
Anyone choosing PVC panels over FRP also contributes toward a healthy planet. FRP panels are not good for the environment as they release harmful toxins and gases during decomposition. PVC panels release a minimal carbon footprint and are recyclable multiple times.
PVC Panels Posses Fire-Resistant Properties; FRP Panels Cannot Hold Back Fires
During accidental fire breakouts inside commercial settings, PVC panels act as a shield to your walls. They don’t let the fire spread and ruin your business for an hour, as they feature a Class A fire rating. FRP panels are inefficient in combating fire hazards and are therefore unsuitable for fire-prone areas like garages, warehouses, grow rooms, etc.
PVC Panels Are Light-Reflective; FRP Panels Aren’t
Vinyl-made PVC panels are perfect solutions for places like cannabis grow rooms as they need sufficient access to natural light. Vinyl panels’ light reflective properties ensure a uniform light distribution across the grow room, keeping it well-lit and bright while reducing your electricity bill. FRP panels cannot reflect light and are not the right answer for your commercial setting, as you would need to invest extra on artificial lighting.
FRP Panels Require Frequent Replacement and Repair; PVC Panels are Maintenance-Free
US-made PVC panels are cost-effective in the long run despite initially appearing more expensive than FRP. FRP panels need you to replace and repair them frequently as they are not water or moisture-resistant. A rise in moisture level can damage FRP faster and make them lose color. PVC panels, on the other hand, are maintenance-free. Once you have installed PVC panels on your walls, you need not worry about replacing, repairing, or refinishing them for over 100 years.
PVC Panels Can Resist Impacts and Abuses, FRP Panels Gets Easily Damaged
PVC panels’ impact and abuse-resistant properties make them more durable, resilient, and sturdier than FRP panels. Sudden blow-outs and hits cannot damage PVC panels. FRP panels, however, can develop dents and cracks.
Duramax PVC Wall Panels- 40 Years Old Experienced PVC Panel Manufacturer
Duramax PVC Wall Panels is one of the most eminent PVC panel manufacturers in the US. We have vast experience in supplying and making vinyl panels for over 40 years. Our panels are made from vinyl and are ASTM and CFIA-certified. Since our panels are lightweight, they also reduce your transportation costs. Besides, we also offer a $25,000 money back guarantee, should you need to repair or replace our PVC panels.
FDA-Approved PVC Panels
Duramax PVC panels meet FDA compliance standards and are non-toxic. Our panels’ unique benefits and features make them ideal for various commercial sectors. More so, PVC panels also meet cleanroom sanitary standards, which helps entrepreneurs adhere to hygiene and sanitation guidelines.
Parting Thoughts
PVC panels are a superior choice over FRP boards for all commercial facilities. We ship our panels within two weeks and ensure a hassle-free delivery. Visit our website to browse through our interesting wall stories on PVC panels. You can even order our vinyl panels online at factory direct prices. Reach out to us for a free professional consultation on your paneling needs.
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Our panels are ASTM certified and FDA compliant; also quality checked. We ensured Kevin that the kitchen would be free from the fire outbreak. The panels have a -hour fire grade also chemical resistant.
Duramax is a top wall panel supplier in the USA. Visit our website for a free sample, get a free consultation and request a quote.
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