Frequently Asked Questions: PVC

How cost effective is PVC?

Can a PVC liner stand up to sunlight?

Will roots or vegetation bother a PVC liner?

Will a PVC liner be immune to rodent attack?

What does chemical resistance mean?

What's all this about smooth and textured?

Can a PVC liner be placed on a slope?

Can I install a PVC liner myself?

There are wrinkles when I lay out the liner, is that okay?

Can I test for leaks myself?

Is installation of PVC weather or climate dependent?

What maintenance is needed for a PVC liner?

 

How cost effective is PVC?

PVC outlasts and outperforms many traditional materials. Because 50% of its base polymer comes from common salt - an inexpensive, renewable resource - it is also much preferred to substitute materials that deplete natural resources.

 

Can a PVC liner stand up to sunlight?
A PVC liner covered with at least 12 inches of clean fill will last for decades. It must be protected from exposure to direct sunlight.

(If the geomembrane must be exposed to direct sunlight, please look at other products for resistance to UV)

 

Will roots or vegetation bother a PVC liner?
PVC liners resist root penetration. However, some vegetation could penetrate the liners. This can be avoided by sub grade soils prepared to be free of roots and organic material.

 

Will a PVC liner be immune to rodent attack?
While PVC generally does not suffer from rodent attack, it does contain a component source protein plasticizer.

Please note:
(1) PVC contains no compounds that have any nutritional or food value to rodents.

(2) the PVC materials do not contain any "addictive" substances.

(3) It is only possible to "chew" a geomembrane at an edge onto which an animal can grip. The likely reason for an animal chewing a geomembrane is to obtain access to the "other side" for some other reason.

 

What does chemical resistance mean?
A PVC liner will survive exposure to a large variety of chemicals, even though the chemical could have some effects on the liner, without causing the liner to fail. If you have a specific concern, give us a call at 800-524-8672.

 

What's all this about smooth and textured?
30 mil PVC or greater already has an embossing on one side, processed during manufacture that provides a controlled pattern. This embossing helps PVC, already known for its flexibility, to conform to and 'grip' the contours of the ground.

 

Can a PVC liner be placed on a slope?
Slopes should be no greater than 3:1 and require mechanically securing a liner by means of an anchor trench around the perimeter.

 

Can I install a PVC liner myself?
Garden pond projects and ornamental features can readily be self-installed using adhesives on any liner seams. If you have a large installation or have specific site needs and you need help, we can provide a range of assistance. Don't hesitate to contact us at 800-524-8672.

 

There are wrinkles when I lay out the liner, is that okay?
Yes, thermal contraction and expansion causes a liner to grow or shrink. The liner should be stretched over the prepared sub-grade and "pulled" taut and "relaxed" but not overstretched.

However, care should be taken to avoid wrinkles in the seam area and around mechanical attachments.

 

Can I test for leaks myself?
CLI tests its seam lengths for leaks (non-destructive testing) using air testing.

 

Is installation of PVC weather or climate dependent?
Most of the time, if you can stand the temperature you are working in, so can the liner. Generally, if the temperature is above 104° or below 32° degrees, you can seam your liner if certain precautions are observed. At -25°, a PVC liner becomes less flexible for installation. If you are in doubt, CLI can help supervise installation or fully install your liner.

 

What maintenance is needed for a PVC liner?
None, properly installed PVC liners are generally maintenance free.

 

Disclaimer: These answers are provided as general information only and are not intended as a guarantee or warranty. Colorado Lining International assumes no responsibilities in connection with the use of this information.