Types of PVC Plastic Furniture
PVC plastic furniture is most commonly found outside as patio or poolside furniture, but many eco-conscious designers are finding new ways to recycle and repurpose used PVC plastic pipes into interesting, innovative furniture that can be featured indoors and out. PVC furniture of all kind is considered to be sturdy and long-lasting, which is why it is commonly featured outdoors. Patio furniture is usually in constant contact with the sun and other elements and must be built to withstand different weather and PVC holds up well to these challenges. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Facts
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PVC is characterized as a thermoplastic that is formed when vinyl chloride polymerizes. When the plastic is first made it's very brittle, which is why manufacturers then add a plasticizing liquid to it; this makes it soft and moldable. PVC patio furniture has become commonplace, but the plastic first gained popularity when it was first used to create pipes. The plastic is durable and cannot be corroded, which is why it was considered the perfect, cheaper alternative to metal pipes.
Function
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Though first used for plumbing, PVC functions perfectly as furniture. Furniture-grade PVC has impact modifiers that are added to increase its strength, which makes it ideal for chairs, stools, or other types of furniture required to sustain large amounts of weight. The ultraviolet inhibitors featured in furniture-grade PVC have two functions: it prevents fading and discoloration and gives the furniture a smooth, attractive and glossy appearance.
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Types
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Many different types of furniture are made with PVC plastic; from sling-style patio chairs and bar stools to tables and ottomans. PVC furniture production has actually come a long way. When PVC patio furniture first became popular, options were limited in terms of design, but that's certainly not the case anymore. Many retailers even feature PVC-based lamps and chaise lounges. There are also many different types of PVC, but plastic furniture should only utilize furniture-grade PVC. Not only does furniture-grade PVC have a high gloss finish but it's also protected against deterioration due to sunlight and UV rays.
Considerations
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If you're unhappy with the types or designs of PVC plastic you find on the market, consider making your own furniture pieces. PVC construction kits can be purchased online or the internal and external connector systems can be purchased separately at hardware stores. This will give you the freedom to create just about any furniture piece you can think of. Just remember to use furniture-grade PVC.
Warning
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Though furniture made from PVC pipe is much less likely to rust, chip, crack or peel, over time, the plasticizer may leach out of it, which will leave it brittle and breakable. If you've had your PVC plastic furniture for a number of years and it's beginning to look brittle, you may want to throw it out and save a guest the embarrassment and possible danger of sitting in the chair only to have it break.
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