Weather-Proof Plastics: The Best Options for Outdoor Use

Plastics now form a part and parcel of our lives. Even though plastics are more inwardly used, its durability and weather-resistant features do make many outdoor products-the garden furniture, as a building material. Though every plastic is not of this type, some excel from the rest when it comes to withstanding elements.

Here’s a glance at some of the best weatherproof plastics for outdoor use:

1. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

Weather-Proof Plastics - PVC
  • Why it’s great: PVC is an incredibly versatile plastic that resists water, chemicals, and UV radiation. It has a melting point of 212°F to 500°F (100°C to 260°C), depending on additives, and excellent dimensional stability under varying weather conditions.
  • Common uses: PVC is extensively used for outdoor furniture, fencing, siding, and pipes.
  • Technical benefits: PVC’s tensile strength ranges between 2,500 and 4,800 psi, ensuring it can handle significant stress without cracking. UV stabilisers added during manufacturing enhance its lifespan under direct sunlight.

More info about: What Are the Benefits of Using PVC Sheets?

2. Polyethylene (PE)

Weather-Proof Plastics - HDPE
  • Why it’s great: PE is a flexible and resistant plastic that is quite tolerant of impact and low temperatures. With impact resistance and tolerance for temperatures as low as -94°F (-70°C), PE is perfect for cold climates and heavy-duty applications. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) offers better rigidity and weatherproofing compared to low-density variants.
  • Common uses: PE is used in many outdoor applications like plastic bags, outdoor toys, and protection coverings.
  • Technical benefits: PE has a tensile strength of 3,200 psi (HDPE) and excellent chemical resistance. It also has a melting point of 248°F (120°C) and doesn’t become brittle in freezing conditions.

3. Polypropylene (PP)

Weather-Proof Plastics - Polypropylene
  • Why it’s great: PP is lightweight yet durable, with a melting point of 320°F (160°C), making it suitable for outdoor applications exposed to moderate heat. It resists fatigue, ensuring long-term reliability in demanding conditions.
  • Common uses: PP finds usage in automobile parts, furniture and food packing materials.
  • Technical benefits: PP has a tensile strength of 4,800 psi and good resistance to most acids and bases. It also boasts low water absorption (less than 0.03%), reducing the risk of warping over time.

4. Polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate Sheet
  • Why it’s great: PC is nearly unbreakable, with an impact resistance up to 250 times stronger than glass, making it perfect for outdoor applications requiring strength. Its high melting point of 302°F to 315°F (150°C to 157°C) ensures stability in hot climates.
  • Common applications: PC is applied in outdoor lighting fixtures, greenhouses, and safety shields.
  • Technical benefits: PC’s tensile strength ranges from 9,500 to 10,200 psi, and its light transmission is approximately 88% to 92%, making it ideal for transparent outdoor structures. It is also self-extinguishing, improving fire safety.

5. Acrylic

Weather-Proof Plastics - Acrylic Sheet
  • Why it’s great: Acrylic is a transparent and robust plastic, with a tensile strength of 10,000 psi, and resists weathering and UV damage exceptionally well. Its melting point of 320°F (160°C) makes it suitable for sun-exposed areas.
  • Common applications: Acrylic is applied in outdoor signboards, skylights, and pool enclosures.
  • Technical benefits: Acrylic is 17 times more impact-resistant than glass and allows up to 92% light transmission. Advanced coatings can be applied to improve scratch resistance, making it more durable over time.

Weather-Proof Plastics: Tips on How to Choose

When choosing plastic for outdoor use, consider the following factors:

1. Climate: If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or high humidity, choose a plastic that can withstand these conditions. For instance, if you live in a cold climate, a plastic like polypropylene, which is resistant to low temperatures, would be a good choice.

2. UV Resistance: The plastic will break down with time if exposed to UV radiation for too long. Opt for plastics that have been engineered with UV stabilisers to prevent the harmful effects of the sun.

3. Additives: Some plastics have additives that make them more resistant to weather. Additives can help protect the plastic from oxidation, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures.

4. Care and Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintaining will help to increase the longevity of your outdoor plastic products. This can be as simple as washing them in mild soap and water or applying protective coatings if that’s what they require. The properties of different types of weatherproof plastics should, therefore, be better known to make the best decision when selecting products for an outdoor space.


For more information about Weather-Proof Plastics, visit our website and get a free quotation now:

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Conclusion

Plastics have become indispensable in outdoor applications due to their durability and weather-resistant properties. By understanding the characteristics of different weather-proof plastics such as PVC, PE, PP, PC, and acrylic, you can make informed choices for your outdoor projects. When selecting plastic, consider factors like climate, UV resistance, additives, and proper care to ensure long-lasting performance and enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space.

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