PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is available as a woven or non-woven material and has been a staple in the fabric membrane roofing industry since the early 1960s. PVC membrane is a cost-effective alternative to traditional roofing systems and can be produced in a multitude of colors to coordinate with individual building project needs. When produced in bright white, this flexible fabric membrane reduces radiant heat gain, keeping interior temperatures cooler during warmer weather conditions. PVC membrane is commonly coated with a protective acrylic or PVDF topcoat with a design life of approximately 15-20 years. If PVC membrane is exposed to high levels of UV in such areas like Florida or in the Southwest U.S., the design life of PVC is approximately 10-15 years.
Technically, PVC is a molecule comprised of carbon, hydrogen, and chlorine. The combination of these elements results in a single-ply membrane that is simple to manufacture. During fabrication, remnants can be recycled and melted down to be reproduced, resulting in less waste. Because PVC is a thermoplastic, this membrane can be softened into a semi-solid state and infused with UV light inhibitors and anti-soiling fungicides. During installation, multiple sheets of the fabric can be overlapped and fused together in a process known as weldable seam technology. Once cooled at room temperature, these sheets form one continuous membrane.
Get a free PVC membrane consultation with the most experienced designers and engineers in the industry.
Contact Us| Attribute | Acrylic Fabric | Polyester Fabric |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Layers | 4 | 4–5 |
| Layer 1 (Base Material) | Woven acrylic fibers | Woven polyester fibers |
| Layer 2 (Adhesion Layer) | Adhesive coating (binds coating to base layer) | Adhesive coating (ensures strong bonding between layers) |
| Layer 3 (Coating) | Polyurethane (for waterproofing and UV resistance) | PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) for waterproofing |
| Layer 4 (Topcoat) | Acrylic lacquer or fluoropolymer coating | PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) or acrylic lacquer |
| Optional Layer | None | Flame-retardant coating |
| Purpose of Adhesion Layer | Provides a strong bond between the base material and the coating layer to ensure durability under tension | Ensures coating adheres securely to the polyester base for longevity |
| Purpose of Other Layers | - Base: Strength and flexibility - Coating: Waterproofing and UV protection - Topcoat: Dirt and stain resistance | - Base: Strength and flexibility - Coating: Waterproofing - Topcoat: Self-cleaning, UV stability - Flame Retardant: Fire safety |
| Durability | Excellent UV resistance; moderate waterproofing | High tensile strength; excellent waterproofing |
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate weight |
| Maintenance | Low, due to dirt-resistant topcoat | Very low, with self-cleaning PVDF layer |
| Waterproofing | Moderate | Excellent |
| UV Resistance | Excellent | Very good |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years (with proper care) | 15–25 years |
| Applications | Small canopies, awnings, and shading solutions | Large tensile structures, stadiums, roofs |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Wide range of colors and finishes | Sleek, high-performance appearance |
| Sleek, high-performance appearance Temperature Resistance | Moderate | High |
| Cost | Low to Medium | Medium to High |
| Feature | Acrylic Fabric Layers | Polyester Fabric Layers |
|---|---|---|
| Core Strength | Base layer provides moderate strength, suitable for light loads. | Base layer is robust, ideal for high-tensile applications. |
| UV Resistance | Coating layer ensures excellent UV resistance and color retention. | Coating and topcoat layers offer high UV stability for outdoor use. |
| Waterproofing | Coating layer ensures complete waterproofing. | Coating layer plus topcoat prevents water infiltration effectively. |
| Durability | Suitable for medium-term applications in controlled environments. | Ideal for long-term outdoor structures exposed to harsh weather. |
| Ease of Maintenance | Protective finish reduces cleaning needs for light applications. | Lacquer or PVDF topcoat ensures long-term cleanliness and durability. |
| Applications | Best for awnings, facades, and vertical screens. | Ideal for tensile roofs, stadiums, and heavy-duty outdoor setups. |
Contact us today to bring your vision to life. As a trusted leader in the design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of high-quality tensile fabric structures, we offer customized solutions for a diverse range of applications and industries. With extensive project experience and a commitment to excellence, we provide endless possibilities for bespoke design concepts tailored to your unique requirements.
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