PVC Wall Cladding vs. Paint & Traditional Finishes

Why PVC Wall Systems Are the Smarter Choice for Medical & Hygienic Facilities

When designing or renovating healthcare, pharmaceutical, and hygienic facilities, wall finishing is not just an aesthetic decision—it is a critical factor in infection control, durability, and long-term performance.

While paint and traditional wall finishes have been commonly used for years, PVC wall cladding systems have become the preferred solution in environments where hygiene and safety are non-negotiable.

✨ Differences between PVC wall cladding, paint, and other conventional wall materials

1. Hygiene & Infection Control

✨Paint & Traditional Finishes

• Porous surfaces that can harbor bacteria and mold
• Micro-cracks develop over time, even with high-quality paints
• Difficult to disinfect thoroughly in critical areas
• Requires frequent repainting to maintain hygiene standards

✨PVC Wall Cladding

• Non-porous, smooth surfaces that prevent bacterial growth
• Welded joints create a fully sealed hygienic system
• Compatible with aggressive cleaning and disinfection protocols
• Ideal for operating rooms, ICUs, laboratories, and clean rooms

2. Durability & Impact Resistance

✨Paint & Traditional Finishes

• Easily damaged by:

1. Medical equipment
2. Beds and trolleys
3. Daily operational movement

• Chipping, peeling, and cracking are common
• High maintenance costs over time

✨PVC Wall Cladding

• High resistance to:

1. Impact and abrasion
2. Moisture and humidity
3. Chemicals and disinfectants

• Designed for 24/7 operational environments
• Maintains appearance and performance for years

3. Seamless Installation & Safety

✨Paint & Traditional Finishes

• Visible joints and corners
• Difficult transitions between walls, floors, and ceilings
• Increased risk of dirt accumulation

✨PVC Wall Cladding

• Seamless welded joints
• Hygienic coved corners and floor-to-wall transitions
• Smooth integration with:

1. Medical doors
2. Vinyl flooring
3. Ceiling systems

This creates a fully integrated hygienic envelope, essential for healthcare facilities.

4. Antibacterial & Antimicrobial Performance

✨Paint & Traditional Finishes

• Antibacterial paints lose effectiveness over time
• Surface performance depends on frequent reapplication

✨PVC Wall Cladding

• Built-in antimicrobial protection
• Enhanced with Silver Ions technology
• Continuous protection throughout the product’s lifetime
• Effective against bacteria, fungi, and microbes

This makes PVC wall panels a long-term infection control solution, not a temporary treatment.

4. Compliance with Medical Standards

PVC wall cladding systems are widely approved and specified because they comply with:

• Infection control regulations

• Fire resistance requirements

• Chemical resistance standards

• Healthcare and pharmaceutical design guidelines

Paint systems often highlight aesthetic appeal but fail to meet strict medical compliance without frequent upgrades and maintenance.

At El Kharashy Contracting & Trading, we specialize in turnkey medical and hygienic fit-out solutions, using advanced Saniclad PVC wall cladding , integrated with medical flooring, ceilings, and doors.

Our solutions are trusted in:

• Hospitals & medical facilities

• Operating rooms & ICUs

• Pharmaceutical factories

• Laboratories & clean rooms

• Food & healthcare facilities

We don’t just finish walls—we create safe, compliant, and hygienic environments.