The most challenging part of any home design project is the right selection of material, be it a new addition of decorative accents or new fixtures. The right material enhances the visual appeal of the house to stand out from the crowd. When it comes to window coverings, there are several options to choose from: Vinyl, PVC, wood, or composite. Each one has its flaws and advantages, so it depends on the shape, size, and style of the windows and the intent to use them. Try selecting a shutter material that is sturdy and of premium quality. In this article, we’ll discuss more about the pros and cons of Vinyl and PVC shutters to help you reach the best decision.
When it's time for an upgrade, opting for residential PVC window sill replacement ensures the seamless continuity of both style and performance, perfectly catering to discerning homeowners who prioritize quality.
What is a PVC Shutter?
PVC(polyvinyl chloride) is a sturdy and affordable shutter material popular amongst the homeowners. PVC is a synthetic polymer referred to as Vinyl to save time, however, the fact is PVC and Vinyl are different materials. Rather, PVC outperforms Vinyl when it comes to exterior shutters because PVC is durable and looks great. It can also withstand extreme weather conditions.
What is a Vinyl Shutter?
Vinyl shutters are formed with a thin layer of Vinyl formed around the mold. Vinyl is a budget-friendly option but is not durable. It can deteriorate rapidly over the period and can break if exposed to direct sunlight for a longer period. Vinyl shutters fade and crack adding to the repair and replacement cost in the future.
Vinyl vs PVC Shutters
| Vinyl Shutter | PVC Shutter | |||
| Durability | It is made from a thin layer of Vinyl, so it is less durable | It is made from a solid plastic compound, so it is more dense and durable | ||
| Fading and cracking | Vinyl is prone to fading and cracking over the period as it is hollow | PVC shutters are made from hard plastic; they don’t fade and crack easily due to their sturdiness and high density. | ||
| Longevity | It can’t last for long due to its low durability. It is made using light material | PVC are durable and can last for many years | ||
| Maintenance | It is high-maintenance because it is prone to warping and cracking | It is easy to maintain. Merely wiping with a damp cloth will be enough because it is resistant to moisture causing mildew and mold | ||
| Cost / affordability | It is cheaper than PVC | It is affordable making it a preferred choice for budget-conscious homeowners | ||
| Options | Not many options are available | PVC is available in multiple colors, sizes, and styles to suit individual preference | ||
| Privacy | Can’t secure privacy like PVC | PVC shutters can be completely closed to the external world securing your privacy | ||
| Energy efficiency | It has a moderate energy efficiency | It is energy efficient because it insulate the home in a better way | ||
Pros and Cons of PVC and Vinyl
PVC Shutters
Pros:
- It is less expensive than other material.
- It is suitable for pipes, flooring, and wire insulation.
- It is more heavy and flexible than other materials like Vinyl and wood.
- PVC can be customized.
- It is ideal for exterior building projects due to its resistance to oxidation.
- Maintenance costs are low.
Cons:
- It is not suitable for indoor shutters.
- PVC shutters sag due to their own weight, making it difficult to open and close the shutter.
- Weather changes affect the dimensions of PVC shutters.
- It warps at high temperature.
- Black paint doesn’t go well with PVC shutters.
- PVC shutters, when exposed to UV rays for a long time, start to fade and discolor.
Vinyl Shutters
Pros:
- It is affordable
- It is lightweight
- It is suitable for weak exterior construction materials. For example, suitable for homes with vinyl siding
Cons:
- These shutters are hollow
- Vinyl shutters sag, warp fade easily
- It’s less durable because it is made of light material
- It can fade and crack in less time
- Replacement and repair costs are high as they deteriorate easily
Which is Better, PVC or Vinyl Shutters?
PVC is an upgraded version of vinyl shutters because of its longevity and high density. Vinyl shutters are not solid, so they get warped easily, adding to the repair and replacement cost, unlike PVC shutters, which are made of solid material.
Know About the Myth: PVC Shutters Are the Same as Vinyl Shutters
It’s completely wrong to say that PVC and Vinyl are the same thing. However, you can’t deny the fact that PVC is also a type of Vinyl, but just for its namesake. PVC always beats Vinyl in every aspect when it comes to exterior shutters.
Conclusion
When designing decorative shutters for windows, select the shutter that suits your preference and budget. Read all the differences, pros, and cons of Vinyl and PVC and conclude the best material for your home.
