What is the Difference Between Vinyl and PVC Blinds?

When shopping for new window blinds, you may come across options labeled "vinyl blinds" or "PVC blinds" and wonder - what's the difference between them? Or are vinyl and PVC blinds actually the same thing?

Below we'll clarify the relationship between vinyl and PVC and explain how modern vinyl blinds have evolved from their predecessors.

Vinyl vs PVC

Vinyl and PVC refer to the same basic material - polyvinyl chloride. PVC is the full technical name for this type of plastic polymer. Vinyl is the more casual, commonly used term.

So vinyl blinds and PVC blinds both refer to window shades made from some form of molded PVC plastic.

Vinyl - Yesterday and Today

In the past, vinyl blinds were synonymous with low budget, flimsy plastic blinds that easily cracked and discolored. But vinyl blind technology and materials have advanced considerably.

Today's vinyl blinds are actually specially formulated PVC compounds designed for superior resilience, durability, and longevity compared to vinyls of old.

Modern vinyls resist denting, warping, moisture damage, and UV fading - issues that plagued old vinyl blinds. Advanced engineering also allows for stunningly realistic wood grain textures.

The Bottom Line

In a nutshell:

Vinyl = PVC - They describe the same core plastic polymer material

Vinyl blinds ≠ cheap plastic blinds - Thanks to material innovations that bolster durability, performance and aesthetics

So rest assured, quality modern vinyl blinds made of PVC plastic offer the same strength, customization options, easy cleaning and functionality as any top-tier "PVC blind."

Know that vinyl blind today conveys a sturdy, stylish product containing the latest high-tech PVC formulations to impress the savviest designers.