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MEMBRANE FABRIC · CHINA

Xingyang workshop · Projects across China

PVC/PVDF fabric in multiple weights, with B1 and custom finishes

Based in Xingyang, Zhengzhou, our workshop serves projects across China. Our regular project range starts at 1050 g/m² while the full specification comparison remains available. High-strength PVDF B1, colours, graphics, ETFE and PTFE can be discussed for a specific project.

Architectural membrane fabric and tensile forms illustration
Membrane fabric and tensile forms

MATERIAL BASICS

Start with the complete fabric build-up

Start with fabric weight, then check the base cloth, coating, tensile strength, surface finish and seam method. Thickness is supplementary information, not a grade on its own.

Polyester base fabricPVC coatingOptional PVDF surface finishModel-specific fire reports

COLOUR & GRAPHICS

Custom colours and graphics for membrane fabric

Share your colour reference or artwork. We can discuss the appearance together with the fabric specification and intended use.

01 / COLOUR

Custom colours

Choose from available fabric colours or provide a target colour code or sample for a project-specific request. We check colour, translucency and surface finish together before confirming the material.

Colour codeColour cardPhysical sample
02 / GRAPHICS

Custom graphics and logos

Artwork, lettering, logos or decorative patterns can be planned for the fabric surface. Send the design file, size and placement so we can check panel seams and a suitable printing method.

ArtworkDimensionsPlacement

Final colour and printed appearance follow the approved sample. Where B1 fire performance or a PVDF finish is required, we also check the selected product and production method before confirming the order.

Discuss colour and graphic options →

PVC / PVDF

PVC and PVDF fabric options

PVDF commonly describes a surface finish over PVC-coated polyester. We specify the full fabric construction and model for each order.

01 / PVC

PVC-coated polyester fabric

Architectural fabric often combines a polyester base cloth with a PVC coating for flexibility, waterproofing and fabrication. Strength, translucency, colour and weathering depend on the exact product.

Read the selection guide →
02 / PVDF

PVDF surface-finished fabric

In architectural fabric, “PVDF membrane” usually refers to PVC-coated polyester with a PVDF surface finish. The finish can help resist soiling and ease cleaning. Specific performance depends on the selected product.

Service life and selection →

FABRIC SPECIFICATIONS

Nine PVC and PVDF specification rows

All nine rows are retained for comparison. Our regular project range starts at 1050 g/m²; lighter grades require a separate suitability review. Compare weight and tensile strength first, with thickness as supplementary information.

Architectural membrane fabric specifications
Surface typeWeightTensile strengthColourThicknessLife referenceFire notation
PVC1050 g/m²4800 N/5cmColours0.8 mm10 yearsFlame-retardant additive
PVDF1100 g/m²5500 N/5cmWhite0.8 mm15 yearsFlame-retardant additive
PVDF1100 g/m²5500 N/5cmWhite0.8 mm15 yearsB2 class
PVDF1200 g/m²6000 N/5cmWhite0.9 mm15 yearsB2 class
High-strength PVDF1100 g/m²6500 N/5cmWhite0.85 mm15 yearsB1 class
High-strength PVDF1250 g/m²6500 N/5cmWhite1.0 mm18 yearsB1 class
Additional grades · comparison only; assess separately
PVC750 g/m²Review separately3500 N/5cmWhite / grey0.6 mm6 yearsFlame-retardant additive
PVC1000 g/m²Review separately4500 N/5cmWhite0.7 mm10 yearsFlame-retardant additive
PVDF950 g/m²Review separately4500 N/5cmWhite0.67 mm10 yearsFlame-retardant additive

For carports, walkways and landscape canopies, we normally start at 1050 g/m². The 750, 950 and 1000 g/m² rows remain for comparison and are not regular project starting grades. Check site loads, fabric condition and the exact product before any separate selection.

“Flame-retardant additive” is not a B1 or B2 classification. Table values and service-life figures support early model selection under normal installation, use and maintenance; confirm final performance against the chosen product documents.

PROJECT-SPECIFIC FABRICATION

ETFE and PTFE can be customised by project

Send the drawings and intended use. We can discuss ETFE film or cushion systems and PTFE-coated glass fabric, then confirm panel layout, connections, material documents and the fabrication or installation scope for the project.

ETFE / FILMPROJECT CUSTOMISATION

Custom ETFE film and cushions

For daylight roofs, atria and façades, we can plan panel divisions, light transmission, form and connection details from your drawings. Inflated cushions also need an agreed air-supply, sealing and maintenance plan; supply and installation scope are confirmed for each project.

Panel layoutLight transmissionCushion system
Discuss ETFE customisation →
PTFE / GLASS FABRICPROJECT CUSTOMISATION

Custom PTFE-coated glass fabric

For stands, transport hubs and other long-span roofs, we can discuss fabric model, panel geometry, seams and edge connections against the design. Fire and weathering performance must be checked against the selected product documents before confirming the fabrication scope.

Fabric modelPanel geometryEdge connections
Discuss PTFE customisation →

CUSTOM FABRICATION

How custom fabric orders work

Our Xingyang workshop works from your project requirements, drawings and material specifications for orders across China.

01

Select for the use

Carports, landscape roofs, grandstands and walkway canopies have different daylight, drainage, structural and maintenance requirements.

02

Specify the fabric

Discuss colours, graphics, weight, roll width, translucency, surface finish and fire requirements; confirm the selected material and samples.

03

Fabricate to drawings

Check panel layout, cutting direction, seams and edge connections. Drawings, samples and dimensions need version control.

04

Agree the delivery

Record model, batch, test documents, fabrication scope, packing, transport and installation interfaces.

FIRE PERFORMANCE

How to review B1 and other fire indicators

Under GB 8624, B1 denotes a difficult-to-burn building material. The listed high-strength PVDF 1100 and 1250 g/m² options carry a B1 notation. For approval, match the actual product with its applicable classification report.

B1 alone does not promise non-combustibility, no toxic smoke, no flaming droplets or instant self-extinguishing. Review the smoke (s), flaming-droplet (d), toxicity (t) and any additional tests requested by the project.

ANon-combustibleB1Difficult to burnB2CombustibleB3Easily combustible

Six points to check for a fire-sensitive project

The exact tests and numerical results depend on the selected product and the project specification.

01

Ignition and flame spread

Ignition depends on the heat source, exposure time and fabric build-up. A single “ignition temperature” cannot replace test results for ignition, flame spread and heat release.

02

Smoke and toxicity

Review the s class for smoke production and the t class for smoke toxicity. B1 does not mean smoke-free or non-toxic combustion.

03

Flaming droplets

The d class describes flaming droplets or particles. Where vehicles, equipment or goods sit below the roof, check the risk of secondary ignition.

04

Droplet composition

The d class does not establish that molten droplets are non-toxic. Review material data or additional testing if the project calls for this.

05

Afterflame time

The period of flaming after the heat source is removed belongs to the applicable test method. An on-site lighter demonstration cannot replace a B1 classification report.

06

Oxygen index

This is the lowest oxygen concentration that sustains burning in a specified oxygen–nitrogen test mixture. It is not ambient “oxygen saturation” and does not by itself establish B1.

SERVICE LIFE

How long can membrane fabric last?

Short answer: The 6 listed PVC/PVDF grades offer indicative 10–18-year selection figures: about 10 years for PVC 1050 g/m²; about 15 years for PVDF 1100 g/m², PVDF 1200 g/m², High-strength PVDF 1100 g/m²; about 18 years for High-strength PVDF 1250 g/m². These assume design-compliant installation, normal use and regular maintenance. Actual performance varies with sunlight, climate, structural design and site conditions.

Basis: the fabric specifications on this page

Indicative service life by grade

All 6 listed grades, shown on a 0–20 year scale.

  • PVC
  • PVDF
  • High-strength PVDF
Reference service life of PVC and PVDF membrane fabric grades
GradeFire notationReference service life
PVC 1050 g/m² Flame-retardant additive 10 yrs
PVDF 1100 g/m² Flame-retardant additive 15 yrs
PVDF 1100 g/m² B2 class 15 yrs
PVDF 1200 g/m² B2 class 15 yrs
High-strength PVDF 1100 g/m² B1 class 15 yrs
High-strength PVDF 1250 g/m² B1 class 18 yrs

These are model-selection figures under design-compliant installation, normal use and recommended maintenance. Project conditions affect actual performance. See conditions →

Base specification application example
10 years

Base specification

1050 g/m² PVC is a starting point for everyday carports and walkways, subject to the site and structural requirements.

  • PVC 1050 g
Durability specification application example
15 years

Durability specification

For landscape roofs, grandstands and other projects with greater weathering and cleaning needs.

  • PVDF 1100 g
  • PVDF 1100 g · B2
  • PVDF 1200 g · B2
  • High-strength PVDF 1100 g · B1
High-demand specification application example
18 years

High-demand specification

For comparison where strength, weathering and B1 fire performance are higher priorities.

  • High-strength PVDF 1250 g · B1

Suggested applications are general guidance. Final selection follows the structure, site conditions and confirmed product documents.

Six factors that shape service life

The same fabric can age very differently from one site to another. Each factor comes with how we address it.

Sunlight and UV

Prolonged UV exposure gradually ages the coating, especially at high-altitude and low-latitude sites.

Our approachIn strong sunlight, compare PVDF finishes and higher grades first.

Temperature and climate

Heat, severe cold, freeze–thaw cycles, coastal salt spray and humid heat all affect the coating and base cloth over time.

Our approachCheck weathering data and steel corrosion protection against the local climate.

Wind, snow and tension

Low pretension or concentrated stresses lead to wrinkles, ponding and fatigue.

Our approachVerify the structure for local wind and snow loads; check tension after installation.

Drainage and ponding

Shallow slopes or blocked drainage create water pockets that add load and collect dirt and stains.

Our approachDesign adequate slopes and drainage paths; avoid large flat areas.

Pollution and soiling

Industrial dust, cooking fumes, acid rain and bird droppings dull the surface, reduce light transmission and speed up ageing.

Our approachIn polluted settings, choose a PVDF finish and clean more often.

Fabrication and installation

Welded-seam quality, cutting direction, edge cables, clamps and steel corrosion protection all shape durability.

Our approachCheck seams, cutting and details against drawings; inspect on delivery.

Maintenance schedule

Suggested intervals; adjust for dust, sunlight and use on site.

Suggested membrane fabric maintenance schedule
TaskWhenWhat to do
Routine checksOngoingLook for damage, ponding and debris on the fabric; keep drains and gutters clear of leaves.
CleaningEvery 3–6 months suggestedUse water or a neutral detergent with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid strong acids or alkalis, sharp tools and close-range pressure washing.
Annual inspectionOnce a year suggestedCheck seams, edge cables, clamp plates, bolt tightness and steel corrosion protection; re-tension slack fabric and touch up rust.
After severe weatherAfter strong wind, heavy rain or snowClear snow and ponding promptly and check for tears or loose fittings. Keep the area below out of use until issues are fixed.
Membrane roof cleaning and maintenance
Need a hand with upkeep?Membrane cleaning service →

Repair or replace?

Judge by how widespread the damage is and the overall condition of the fabric.

Local repair is enough
Repair

Local repair is enough

When problems are local and the rest of the fabric is sound, a repair restores it to service.

  • Local scratches, small holes or punctures
  • An opened seam or worn corner
  • Local stains or mould that need professional cleaning
Membrane patching service →
Assess for replacement
Replace

Assess for replacement

These signs show the fabric has aged overall; repeated repairs are neither economical nor safe.

  • Widespread chalking, cracking or coating loss exposing the base cloth
  • Leaks in several places, or repeated repairs in one area
  • Obvious slack that can no longer be re-tensioned
  • Tears under light pulling, showing a clear loss of strength
Membrane replacement service →

Not sure which grade fits your site?

Tell us the project location, use, expected service needs and maintenance conditions. We will compare suitable PVC/PVDF grades and specify the chosen model in the proposal.

PROJECT BRIEF

Send these details for a useful quotation

Share the site and use, drawings or dimensions, preferred material and weight, target service life, colour reference, graphic artwork, light transmission, required fire class and any s/d/t limits, quantity and delivery location. Samples help confirm the appearance and fabrication scope.

Tensile membrane canopy application

FAQ

Common questions

What is the difference between PVC and PVDF fabric?

PVC generally describes the coating over a polyester base cloth. In this context PVDF commonly describes an additional surface finish. Compare the complete composition and exact product documents.

Which PVC and PVDF fabric weights are listed?

The comparison retains nine rows: PVC 750, 1000 and 1050 g/m²; PVDF 950, 1100 and 1200 g/m²; and high-strength PVDF 1100 and 1250 g/m², including a second PVDF 1100 fire configuration. Our regular project range starts at 1050 g/m². Lighter grades are retained for comparison and need a separate suitability assessment. Check the exact model and report for B1.

Can membrane fabric colours and graphics be customised?

Yes. Send a target colour code, colour card or physical sample for colour matching, and artwork, logo dimensions and placement for graphics. The final colour, printing method and appearance are confirmed against the selected fabric and approved sample.

Does B1 mean self-extinguishing, non-toxic and no flaming droplets?

B1 is the difficult-to-burn building-material class. It does not by itself establish afterflame time, smoke toxicity or flaming-droplet performance. Check the selected model’s applicable fire report, including s (smoke), d (flaming droplets) and t (smoke toxicity) classifications. An added flame retardant is not itself a B1 or B2 rating.

How is ETFE different from PVC/PVDF fabric?

ETFE is a film used in single-layer and inflated-cushion systems for roofs and façades. PVC/PVDF architectural membrane is typically coated woven fabric. Their connections, support systems and maintenance requirements differ.

How long can PVC or PVDF architectural fabric last?

The listed models give an indicative 10–18 year selection range: about 10 years for PVC 1050 g/m², 15 years for PVDF 1100/1200 and high-strength PVDF 1100 g/m², and 18 years for high-strength PVDF 1250 g/m². These figures assume design-compliant installation, normal use and regular maintenance. Local exposure and site conditions affect actual performance.

How should I read the reference service life?

It is a model-based comparison figure under the installation, use and maintenance conditions listed here. Local climate, structural design and upkeep affect how a specific project performs in service.

When does membrane fabric need replacing?

Local scratches, small holes or an opened seam can usually be patched. Widespread chalking, cracking or coating loss exposing the base cloth, leaks in several places or repeated repairs, slack that cannot be re-tensioned, or tearing under light pulling are signs to assess full replacement.

How should membrane fabric be maintained to last longer?

Clean the surface regularly with water or a neutral detergent and a soft brush, avoiding strong solvents and sharp tools. Inspect after strong wind, heavy rain or snow, clear snow and ponding, check tension, fittings and seams, and repair minor damage early.

Can we order fabric fabrication without a complete structure?

Send drawings, dimensions, quantity and material requirements to discuss a fabric-only order. Engineering, fittings, transport and installation scope are agreed for each order.