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Unmatched Moisture Resistance: How PVC Wall Panels Defy Water Damage
No Absorption and No Expansion
PVC Wall Panels have a completely non-porous surface which means that water absorption does not even happen on a molecular level. Unlike drywall and wood, PVC wall panels do not expand, warp, or even disintegrate when faced with moisture. This also means that issues like bubbling and separation will not happen even in consistently humid environments such as steam rooms or pool enclosures.
Water Damage with No Problems in Continuous Humidity
Independent tests have shown that PVC wall panels have zero water absorption even after extended submersion. This is necessary for PVC wall panels to endure areas with elevated moisture such as showers and commercial kitchens. This water absorption resistance comes from the chemical nature of PVC so it will never wear out or become ineffective and will continue to protect the wall panels for a lifetime.
Inherent Mold and Mildew Resistance: Health-Safe, Code-Compliant Protection
PVC wall panels have a non-porous surface which prevents the absorption of moisture. This means that fungi has no water and therefore the panels have built-in resistance to mold and mildew. This resistance was achieved without the use of biocides as they can harm air quality, therefore PVC panels are safe to use in places where people are always present like schools and hospitals.
ASTM G21 Lab Validation: No Fungal Growth After 28 Days of Exposure
According to ASTM G21, panels are put in a mixed spore suspension and placed in an incubator set to 85% rH and 27°C for 28 days. The top PVC wall panel products achieve an impressive 0 Rating (no fungal growth detected). This independent third-party test gives architects/specifiers the assurance of meeting the most challenging health and building code compliance for moisture-prone areas.
Proven Performance Across High-Moisture Applications
Bathrooms & Showers: 5-Year Performance with No Delamination or Staining
In the last 5 years of installation of bathrooms and shower enclosures (both residential and commercial), there have been absolutely no instances of delamination or staining or any form of structural deterioration. PVC is the ideal choice compared to tiles (with fragile and porous grout lines) and dry wall (which is prone to blistering). Our seamless, impervious surface PVC panels address the cause of the majority of moisture damage issues by preventing moisture from penetrating behind the panels, thereby eliminating the source of the problem.
Kitchens, Laundry Rooms, & Basements: Commercial-Grade Performance in Residential and B2B Applications
The same core performance extends across many areas of high humidity:
Application Key Performance Benefit
Kitchens No staining or swelling from heat, steam, or splashes
Laundry Rooms Constant humidity and temperature
Basements Moisture wicking through walls and efflorescence are blocked.
Our products meet the requirements of a wide range of residential and commercial projects such as multi-family housing, assisted living facilities, and light industrial facilities where hygiene, durability, and less risk of system failure during use are of utmost importance.
Long-Term Value: Low Maintenance and Superior Lifecycle Economics
PVC wall panels provide significant cost savings over their lifecycle. Their structure is closed cell and non-porous, so they are resistant to staining, moisture, and microbes. All that they require is periodic damp cloth cleaning. Compared to other wall materials, they have no need for painting, sealing, or specialty cleaning, which saves time and money.
In wet areas, PVC wall panels have a lifespan of 20-30 years, compared to ±5-7 years for bathroom drywall and unsatisfactory bath tub surround tiles. Grout also needs periodic maintenance and replacement. They save capital expenses and reduce construction waste and landfill burden for at least 25 years. Facility managers can depend on their operational materials with low risk and low cost.
FAQ
What makes PVC wall panels resistant to water damage?
PVC wall panels have non-porous edges that do not absorb moisture compared to drywall and wood, which can degrade and have high moisture content.
Are PVC wall panels mold resistant?
Yes. PVC wall panels have an impermeable surface that resists microbes and do not need biocidal coatings or special coatings for waterproofing.
How long do PVC wall panels last in high moisture environments?
PVC wall panels last 20 to 30 years and do not delaminate, stain, or need extensive maintenance.
Can PVC wall panels be used in both residential and commercial spaces?
Yes, and they can be used in numerous types of spaces including bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, basements, and commercial kitchens and assisted living facilities.
Do PVC wall panels need any special care?
There is no special maintenance required. The panels are easy to care for, requiring only the occasional wipe down with a damp cloth. You won’t have to worry about painting or applying special cleaners or sealants.