uPVC vs. PVC hoarding: Understanding the differences
When selecting hoarding panels for construction or renovation projects, understanding the differences between PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and uPVC (Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride) is crucial.
This article will explain the difference between these materials when used for hoarding panels, and explain why uPVC is usually the best choice!
What is PVC?
PVC is a widely used plastic, known for its versatility. It is made flexible by adding plasticisers, a substance used to make the plastic easier to shape and mould.
This makes PVC suitable for a wide range of products, including pipes, cable insulation, and some hoarding panels. However, this flexibility can be a drawback in applications where rigidity and long-term durability are essential.
What is uPVC?
uPVC is a form of PVC that does not contain plasticisers. This makes it more rigid and durable than standard PVC.
The increased rigidity and strength of uPVC make it ideal for construction products and projects such as window frames, plumbing, and particularly hoarding panels where structural integrity is vital.
Key differences between PVC and uPVC
| uPVC | PVC | |
| Durability and strength | Provide robust, long-lasting solutions. Rigidity is essential for maintaining the integrity of hoarding panels in high-stress environments. | More flexible but less durable. May not offer the same level of structural strength. |
| Environmental impact | Typically made from post-industrial recycled materials offering significant environmental benefits. | Often less environmentally friendly due to the inclusion of plasticisers, which can be harmful. Lower durability of PVC also leads to more replacements – increasing waste. |
| Applications | Ideal for a variety of applications, such as office partitions, hospitals, shopping centres, healthcare facilities. | Suitable for applications where flexibility is required over rigidity, but less ideal for long-term uses. |
| Maintenance and hygiene | Easy to clean and maintain, panels resist bacteria and can be cleaned. | More prone to wear and tear, requiring more frequent maintenance, so may not offer the same level of hygiene as uPVC. |
uPVC in hoarding panels
uPVC hoarding panels such as Hoardfast uPVC offer several advantages, making them a superior choice for various projects. They are cost-effective, particularly in comparison to more traditional options like timber, providing a budget-friendly solution for large-scale construction or refurbishment projects requiring hoarding.
Their lightweight and modular nature makes for quick installation, minimising downtime and disruption; particularly beneficial for hoarding required in public or live environments, getting set up on site quickly, and keeping to project timescales.
The full Hoardfast uPVC system is customisable to project requirements, available in standard sizes or cut bespoke, with a range of support and stability options, and additional features like doors, vision panels and graphics.
Additionally, uPVC panels support sustainable construction practices. The panels are manufactured from 85% recycled materials and they can be reused multiple times in future projects and recycled again at the end of usable life. They also have a hygienic non-porous surface that resists bacteria and is easy to clean, making them ideal even for healthcare facilities and food manufacturing environments. The clean, bright white finish makes them aesthetically appealing for retail and office refurbishments.
Hoardfast uPVC in retail, construction, airport, manufacturing and healthcare environments.
Choose the right panel
Choosing the right hoarding panel material is essential for the success and efficiency of your construction or renovation project. While PVC offers flexibility and some cost advantages, uPVC’s superior durability, environmental benefits, and versatility make it the preferred choice for many applications.
For more information or to explore your hoarding panel options, contact Westgate Global to discuss your project needs and find the best solution tailored to your requirements.
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