Choosing the right PVC fabric for your application matters

Choosing the right PVC fabric is important to ensure its properties match the needs of the application. This way, the material will last long and maintain its performance even in demanding conditions and environments.

Choosing the right PVC fabric for your application matters.

Characteristics of PVC fabrics

At Scantarp, we understand that each application places unique demands on fabric performance. That’s why our PVC fabrics can be tailored with a wide range of properties, including:

Exceptional strength and tear resistance
Flame retardancy (various classifications)
UV protection for extended service life
Phthalate-free composition for safe use
Adjustable light transmittance or full blackout
Low temperate resistance down to -60 °C
Chemical resistance, including 100% TPU options
Antistatic performance to prevent dust and dirt buildup and ensure safe use

Fabrics with special features are also available, so don’t hesitate to ask for more information!

Fabric strength

The strength of a PVC fabric comes from its base fabric, which is either knitted (Scanplan) or woven (Vinyplan).

Scanplan: Knitted base fabric is usually chosen for applications where tear resistance plays an important role. For example, in covers, protective sheets, nets, and curtains, these are important features since the items are frequently moved or handled. Thanks to foldability, knitted base fabric is also optimal for lightweight door fabrics intended for indoor use. In addition, knitted base fabric is a better choice for protecting polygonal and uneven surfaces. The product code of Scanplan products begins with the number 5.

Even higher tear resistance is achieved with so-called rip-stop fabrics, in which reinforced threads are woven into the base fabric at regular intervals. These threads more effectively stop tears from spreading.

Vinyplan: Woven base fabric provides excellent strength and durability because the warp and weft threads are tightly interlaced. Woven base fabric is used when tensile strength and high durability are required. It is optimal for use especially in hall, boat, oil boom, and silo fabrics, as well as truck tarpaulins. In addition, woven base fabric is optimal for large and heavy doors due to its strength properties. The product code of Vinyplan products begins with the numbers 4, 6, 7, and 8.

Explore our stock products and colours >>

Safety and Protection

Flame retardancy: Our flame-retardant PVC fabrics self-extinguish once the flame is gone and do not drip burning material. They are available in C-s2, d0 and the stricter B-s2, d0 fire classifications (EN 13501-1). Look for the FR marking in the product description.
UV protection: Protects the fabric’s colour and structure from sunlight, extending service life. Check out this map to see our recommendations regarding UV protection.
Phthalate-free fabrics: Safe for applications such as gym mats and school sports facilities. Identified by the PF marking in the product name.
Antistatic: Prevents static buildup and reduce dust and dirt adhesion. Also ensures safe use. Marked with A in the product name.

Light transmittance

From blackout to translucent, our fabrics give you control over light transmission.

In some use cases (for example storage), complete blackout is essential, while in others (for example hoop houses), maximizing natural light is preferable.

The choice of base fabric, pigmentation, and coating formulations affects the amount of light transmission. Strength requirements must also be considered when selecting the appropriate base fabric.

Low-temperature resistance

Thanks to cold resistance, our products withstand handling at low temperatures. Our standard products can be handled in cold conditions down to -40 °C, while our special products are designed to withstand stress even at -60 °C.

If the fabric is not being moved or stressed, cold temperatures won’t cause lasting damage — even below the recommended range.

Chemical resistance

Generally, PVC-polyurethane materials resist most chemicals better than traditional PVC. However, exceptions exist, so we recommend confirming with us which material is best for your application. Resistance also depends on duration of exposure, temperature, and mechanical stress. Higher polyurethane content improves chemical resistance.

We also supply 100% TPU materials. Ask for more information!

Examples of PVC fabric applications

Every PVC fabric combines multiple properties, tailored during product development. The base fabric, as well as the formulation of the top and bottom layers, is customized for each application to ensure optimal performance.

For example, Scantarp’s building fabrics are flame-, UV-, and mold-protected, and use tightly woven base fabric, giving them excellent strength and durability. Especially on large surfaces, these properties ensure resistance to heavy wear, weather changes, and UV radiation. In case of fire, the fabric does not drip burning material and extinguishes itself once the flame is gone.

Door fabrics are also available with UV and flame protection and can be made with either woven or knitted base fabric depending on the application.

Woven base fabric is better suited for large and heavy doors due to its strength, often in 2/2 or 3/3 Panama construction.
Knitted base fabric provides dimensional stability, structural integrity, and excellent tear strength — important for doors that are frequently moved. It folds more easily, making it ideal for lightweight indoor doors and curtains. A thicker PVC coating layer can improve sound insulation.

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