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Is Vinyl the Same Thing as PVC?

March 8, 2024


Vinyl and PVC are often confused with each other, but the truth is that these two materials are not the same.

  • PVC is a type of vinyl and is one of the most popular construction materials on the market. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride and is relatively inexpensive.
  • Vinyl is a radical of ethane that refers to many different ethylene-based compounds and PVC is polyvinyl chloride and a polymer of vinyl chloride.


*Note: When installing a vinyl fence, PVC is the only type of vinyl used; therefore it is usually called vinyl fencing.

PVC was created accidentally when flasks of vinyl chloride were exposed to direct sunlight. PVC in present time is created in a lab through a process called polymerization. Polymerization involves many complex chemical reactions.

You can even find the PVC vinyl fence in third world countries because of the affordable prices. PVC is a contractor favorite because it is easy to work with and is resistant to biological and chemical breakdowns.

Types of Vinyl

Types of vinyl include polyvinylidene chloride, polyvinyl acetate, and polyvinyl alcohol. 

Benefits of the PVC Vinyl Fence

A PVC vinyl fence can work great outdoors because it is durable and lasts a very long time. The great benefits of a PVC fence is that it will not rot, warp, splinter or check like a wood fence would. To clean PVC fence, all you need to do is clean off the fence with a rag when it gets a little dirty. PVC fences require minimal maintenance and go a long way.

Since vinyl is a general term and PVC is just one product (which is vinyl) many people are led to believe that they are the exact same thing.

Vinyl and PVC are interchangeably used in the fencing industry. 
Vinyl and PVC fencing are usually a customer favorite over wood fencing because it is easy to care for and durable. It can also be made to look like wood but it does not decay as wood does.

PVC and vinyl fencing can be painted but requires a special kind of pain called epoxy-based paint. It is important to do research on any type of materials used before buying them. You can assume that vinyl does actually mean PVC, but to be safe, you would need to verify the details with the manufacturer.

Choosing a PVC vinyl fence for your property should be a priority if you want to get the most out of your money and have a beautiful presentation for your front or back yard. Vinyl fencing has been in competition with wood fencing for over 20 years. Most PVC or vinyl fences usually come in white because it’s the easiest way for the manufacturer to make it. A type of premium vinyl fencing that doesn’t require much cleaning is called virgin vinyl fencing.

Investing in a vinyl or PVC fence is a smart move because it will last a long time as opposed to wood fencing that require constant maintenance and can rot over time. Those who select a PVC vinyl fence find that they have a durable solution that also looks quite appealing.

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