We have started to use some PVC (Komatex Komacel). We were wondering how it weathers outside as far as fading(black and beige at the moment). I see some people are painting it, what paints or process are you using. Thanks in advance.
Posted by Michael Boone (Member # 308) on :
I think a better choice is to use aluminum I did a job for a hockey rink in Komatex it was brittle in the cold and cracked
Posted by David Harding (Member # 108) on :
PVC also distorts excessively during temperature changes. It will expand greatly when it gets hot and won't necessarily contract back to the original size. UV also attacks it. I quit using PVC outdoors at least a dozen years ago.
Posted by Jean Shimp (Member # 198) on :
We use a lot of 1/2" pvc for cut out letters and signs. We always paint it with 100% acrylic latex. The only colors we use unpainted are black and white. We had to replace one set of 36" letters that were cut out of 1/4" black pvc. They warped badly in the south facing sun.
Posted by Joe Rees (Member # 211) on :
The rider strips on this sign are 3/4" PVC, painted dark green (both sides). Sign's been up 5 years with zero signs of warping or cracking or peeling.
I've got plenty of other much larger signs out there made from the same stuff acting just as stable. Like this one where almost everythinbg you see is 3/4" PVC:
Maybe the 3/4" thickness helps or the fact I'm in a relatively mild climate - not that many days over 90 or under 20. I like it.
Posted by Tim Whitcher (Member # 685) on :
Anyone have any success like Joe in more extreme climates? Here in Michigan, we see it all. Eric, there was a recent post (within the last two weeks) where people suggested different PVC paint solutions. You can perform a search of old topics at the top of the page.
Posted by Belinda Palmer (Member # 4628) on :
pvc is not uv stable. Itmust be coated or it will discolor and get brittle. 100% acrylic latex works great.
