PE vs PVC Fabric: Which Is Better for Fabric Buildings?

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) fabric is a popular choice for fabric buildings exposed to high UV rays, strong winds and other extreme conditions. PE (polyethylene) fabric is the lighter option, with a shorter lifespan, but it self-cleans well when it rains.

When should you choose PVC fabric over PE?

Choose PVC fabric when the building will face high UV rays, strong winds or other extreme conditions. PVC fabric is thicker than PE, has a higher tear strength and is durable and designed to last a long time.

It also holds up better against water and fire:

• Waterproofing: both fabrics are waterproof, but PVC is more so.
• Fire resistance: as a material, PVC is much more fire-resistant than polyethylene, because the chlorine atoms it releases during a fire inhibit the process of combustion. This is a comparison of the two materials, not a fire rating for any building.

When is PE fabric the better fit?

PE fabric makes sense when a lighter cover matters more than the longest lifespan. PE is a lighter type of architectural fabric, and its advantages are:

• It self-cleans very well when it rains.
• It is about 5% more translucent than PVC, so it lets in a little more light.

What is PVC fabric made of?

PVC is made by polymerizing vinyl chloride monomer. Stabilizers and plasticizers are added to improve its resistance to light and heat and to increase its elasticity. Those properties make PVC suitable for a range of industrial uses.