Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a thermoplastic material having outstanding corrosion resistance, excellent electric insulating properties, and good mechanical strength. It is easy to see why PVC rollers are attractive to some industries and businesses. This can be especially true on machinery that holds, distributes, or comes in contact with water or other liquids. The properties of the PVC can change with the addition of fillers, plasticizers, stabilizers, and colourants. The material is most commonly used in the electrical and chemical sectors. It is generally unplasticized in these applications because plasticizers negatively affect PVC’s chemical and electrical properties.
What are common uses for PVC in home improvement projects?
PVC is popular for home improvement because it resists water, rot, and most household chemicals while staying easy to cut, glue, and install. Common uses include PVC pipe and fittings for plumbing repairs and irrigation systems, PVC sheet for moisture-resistant shelving and trim, and PVC rod or angle stock for small DIY fabrication jobs. It holds up especially well in the damp, high-contact areas where wood and metal tend to fail first.
PVC is also versatile and can work effectively in a range of environments. It is dark grey and available in basic shapes, such as sheets, rods, hollow bars, pipes and specialty profiles. PVC materials are easily cemented and welded using hot air. Also, when you purchase rollers made of PVC from a trusted plastic rollers supplier, you won’t have to do as much maintenance. Johnston Industrial Plastics is a key distributor of PVC across Canada. Contact the team to discuss your PVC requirements.
Available in: Sch40, Sch80, Series 160 Valves + Fittings
PVC Angles
PVC Angles Grey
Size: 1” x 1” x 1/8”— 2” x 2” x 1/4”
FAQs
PVC is highly durable and resists corrosion and moisture, so installations can last decades with minimal upkeep. Environmental concerns exist around recycling (limited in most programs) and burning, but long service life offsets that by reducing replacements. Check local recycling options, as PVC recyclability varies by region.
Rigid PVC resists dilute acids, alkalis, salts, and alcohols but is weaker against strong solvents, ketones, and aromatic or chlorinated hydrocarbons. Confirm compatibility for your specific chemical and conditions before use.
CPVC (chlorinated PVC) is chemically treated to handle higher temperatures, up to 180°F (82°C) for continuous hot water exposure, versus standard PVC which softens above 140°F (60°C). This makes CPVC ideal for hot water supply lines and radiant heating, while standard PVC is better suited for cold-water plumbing, drainage, and irrigation. Standard PVC is more cost-effective for most applications, so CPVC is worth the premium investment only when temperature stability is critical.
