PVC is the dominant material for inflatable boats. Its use has been credited with the explosion of affordable, durable dinghy's that are available to most boating enthusiasts. However, PVC is not Hypalon and it requires different care. Probably the greatest number of inflatable boat issues come from PVC owners treating their boats like Hypalon, and not giving them the care they require. Most of the time when an inflatable begins to deteriorate it isn't due to the fabric, but rather all of the other parts and accessories that are glued to the boat. The adhesives will fail and the parts will break apart, and it is expensive to replace them all.

How long your PVC inflatable will last depends on the quality of the fabric, how well the seams are constructed, and how it is cared for. A properly cared for PVC dinghy can expect to last anywhere from 5-10 years, depending on where it is kept and how it is used.

When PVC first entered the market, manufacturers were eager to try it in inflatable dinghies because of its low cost and durability. Unfortunately, they were not aware of the care that was required to preserve the life of the material. PVC dinghies that were made in the 80's and 90's were not treated with UV protectants, and many of them began to degrade within a few years.

Today's PVC fabrics are treated with UV protectants, and dinghy manufacturers construct the seams with hot air welding instead of glue. This helps to prevent the degradation that caused the initial anger and stigma of PVC boats.

The other big issue that affects the life of PVC is the accumulation of oils, dirt and other foreign substances on the surface of the boat. These contaminates will eventually begin to migrate into the fabric and glue, causing it to age and degrade more rapidly. This is why it is important to clean your boat after every use, especially in saltwater, and to dry it thoroughly before storing.

PVC is a very good material to choose for an inflatable boat, especially in colder climate areas. It also offers a good alternative to neoprene if you prefer an inexpensive and lightweight option.

The main drawback of a PVC dinghy is its inability to resist punctures and tears. If you plan to carry heavy passengers, tow large objects or spend extended periods of time in harsh conditions. You can determine the fabric type of your inflatable by examining the seams and looking for any signs of damage, such as rips or abrasions. If the fabric is damaged, it is important to have any holes repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and deterioration of the boat.

PVC Inflatable Non-slip Fabric Vinyl Fabric For Sports Use

Product Name	PVC Inflatable Non-Slip Fabric	Item No#.	HLIBF005
Brand Name	HANGLONG	Place Of Orinal	HAINING,ZHEJIANG,CHINA
Base Fabric	1000D*1000D 20*20	Weight/GSM	650-850G
Available Width	1-3.2M	Available Color	OEM Color
Delivery Time	15-25DAYS/20GP	Production Capacity	45-75,000SQM/Monthly