Like fabric there seems to be endless choice and variety of vinyl, so considering the wear and tear implications first, helps to narrow down the best suited vinyl for the project. Shown here are four texture examples from smooth, through faux leather vinyl to pattern textures. We will always select a vinyl for its upholstery quality.
Vinyl is a sensible choice for hospitality, retail and marine. Fire regulation, levels of usage, resistance to abrasion, piling, soiling and seam strength all play a role in choosing vinyl. We can specify antimicrobial vinyl as used by private healthcare and the NHS over the last 30 years. We can match style and exact colours.
Not all vinyl is created equally – synthetic material can be manufactured in many ways. Upholstery vinyl is made from strong polyester or cotton fibres coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Specifications to consider include UV colour fastness, Martindale rub durability, Crib 5 fire retardancy, REACH compliancy (ensuring use of safe PVC chemicals) e.g. phthalic acid free.
Marine vinyl differentiates itself by the material makeup and addition of biocides strengthening its resistance to mould, mildew and microbial pink staining as well as UV stable colour fastness. It's made to last in damp, wet, cold, bright and hot conditions.
Vinyl impregnated with antimicrobial compounds provides antibiotic resistance to bacteria such as MRSA, E.coli, C.diff, VRE, NDM-1 and similar bacteria and fungi. Effective where ongoing protection between cleaning cycles is essential.
The upholstery engineered synthetic leathers we use are soft, durable, and to the eye — realistic. Today's technology has come a long way in replicating both texture and performance.
With well over 30 years experience in upholstery we have re-covered many things in probably every type of material imaginable.
Through every type of project we constantly strive for the highest standards in upholstery craftsmanship regardless. Do ask us about material performance and the characteristics that make a difference like leather options versus vinyl.
