Ever walked into a commercial kitchen, warehouse, or cold storage facility and noticed those clear plastic strips hanging in doorways? Those aren’t just random bits of plastic – they’re PVC strip curtains, and they’re working harder than you might think.
Here’s what PVC strip curtains solve immediately:
- Cut energy costs through superior thermal barriers
- Eliminate operational bottlenecks with instant walk-through access
- Stop contamination from dust, pests, and airborne particles
These transparent plastic barriers work as invisible doors, maintaining separation while allowing seamless passage. Unlike traditional doors that create workflow interruptions or expensive air curtain systems that drain budgets, PVC strip curtains deliver proven results at a fraction of the cost.
The evidence speaks for itself: Research confirms drawing barriers at dusk reduces heat loss by 15%, In facilities where heating and cooling represent 30% of operating costs, this isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for staying competitive.
Whether you’re managing a warehouse, cold storage facility, manufacturing plant, or commercial kitchen, these versatile barriers are already working in thousands of operations exactly like yours.
Let’s dive into what makes them so effective and how you can install them yourself.
What Are PVC Strip Curtains? Understanding the Basics
These are not just ‘random pieces of plastic’, but what are PVC curtains in the first place?
What is a PVC curtain?
PVC strip curtains are plastic strips used as barriers to control temperature, dust, noise, and humidity in various environments. They are made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), the third-most widely manufactured synthetic polymer of plastic, that is strong, flexible, and resistant to impact, corrosion, and abrasion.
These flexible plastic barriers hang vertically in doorways and openings. Unlike solid doors, they allow easy passage while still providing separation between different areas. Think of them as the Swiss Army knife of industrial doors – versatile, practical, and surprisingly effective.
The beauty of these curtains lies in their simplicity. They’re transparent (so you can see what’s coming), flexible (so they won’t damage equipment or cause injuries), and cost-effective (both to buy and maintain).
Do PVC Strip Curtains Work? The Proven Benefits
Let’s start with the main question first…
Do PVC strip curtains work?
Absolutely. PVC strip curtains are highly durable and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions and heavy usage. They are resistant to damage from chemicals and UV light degradation, making them ideal for use in a wide variety of settings.
For businesses, PVC curtains have three main benefits:
- Energy and cost savings
- Streamlining workplace operations
- Ensuring a cleaner and safer workplace
Energy Savings That Actually Matter
With energy prices being at an all-time high, everyone wants to save on bills.
Do insulated curtains save money?
Drawing curtains at dusk can reduce heat loss by around 15%. With properly fitted thermal barriers like PVC strip curtains, this goes up – you can reduce energy loss by up to 25%!
In simple terms, these curtains act like invisible doors, preventing conditioned air from escaping.
Let’s think now at scale – businesses…
For businesses running commercial fridges and freezers, energy efficiency isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a major cost factor. With heating and cooling accounting for a significant portion of operational expenses, even small improvements in insulation can lead to substantial savings over time.
When heating and cooling can account for up to 30% of energy costs, this isn’t just helpful – it’s essential with a direct impact on the bottom line.
Looking to save energy and cut costs? Our Standard PVC strips stay flexible down to -15°C, while our Polargrade strips are designed for freezer environments, maintaining flexibility down to -25°C.
Streamlined Operations
In high-traffic cold storage areas—like walk-in fridges, freezers, and chilled prep zones—conventional doors can seriously slow things down.
Staff constantly opening and closing heavy doors wastes time and lets cold air escape.
PVC strip curtains solve this problem. They allow people, trolleys, and stock cages to pass through quickly, without having to open a door and risk a temperature drop.
This keeps operations flowing smoothly and helps maintain consistent temperatures inside the unit – helping to prevent freezer icing and reducing strain on refrigeration systems
Cleaner, Safer Workspaces
For businesses—especially in food processing, pharmaceuticals, or any operation handling sensitive products—maintaining a clean, hazard-free environment is non-negotiable.
From maintaining the ideal fridge temperature and meeting food safety regulations to creating spaces that keep employees focused and productive, every detail counts.
Let’s start with the basics here…
Are PVC curtains safe? Modern PVC strip curtains made from non-phthalate compounds are completely safe for human contact and are recommended as a commercial solution.
PVC curtains are not only safe, they also create effective barriers against:
- Dust and contaminants
- Insects and pests (special yellow PVC curtains are particularly effective against flying insects)
- Fumes and odours
- Draughts and air currents
Finally, for those businesses operating outdoors or in wet environments, you might be wondering if PVC curtains are waterproof. Yes, PVC curtains provide excellent protection against rain and moisture.
Cost-Effective Solution
Compared to installing permanent doors or complex air curtain systems, PVC strip curtains offer excellent value. They’re affordable to buy, easy to install (often DIY), and simple to maintain.
Door curtains save money on energy bills by preventing heat loss through gaps around door frames. Without proper barriers, you could be losing significant energy through these gaps, which inevitably shows as increased costs in energy bills.
Common Applications: Where You’ll See PVC Strip Curtains
| Setting | Typical Use | Key Benefits |
| Cold Storage | Walk-in fridges, freezer rooms | Energy savings, temperature maintenance |
| Warehouses & Distribution | Loading bay separation, zone control | Temperature control, dust prevention |
| Food Production | Hygiene barriers, temperature control | Food safety compliance, contamination control |
| Manufacturing | Dust/fume containment | Worker safety, environmental control |
| Retail | Stockroom access, back-of-house separation | Climate control, operational efficiency |
| Healthcare | Clean room barriers, easy-access partitions | Infection control, easy access |
| Garages & Workshops | Draught control, workspace separation | Comfort, energy efficiency |
Installation Guide: Getting It Right
How to hang PVC strip curtains?
The installation process involves several key steps: measuring and marking, installing the hook-on rail, installing the PVC strips, preparing the strips, setting overlap options, making final adjustments, and testing the system
What You’ll Need
| Tool | Purpose |
| Tape measure | Accurate measurements |
| Drill + appropriate bits | Mounting holes |
| Screwdriver | Securing hardware |
| Level | Straight installation |
| Utility knife/scissors | Cutting strips to length |
| Screws & wall plugs | Secure mounting |
| Marker/pencil | Mark positions |
Step 1: Measure Your Opening
- Width: Measure across the top of your opening
- Height: From where the mounting rail will sit to about 10-20mm above floor level
- Mark your mounting positions clearly and double-check everything
Step 2: Choose Your Hardware
Consider your mounting options:
- Wall mount: Hardware fixed to the wall above the opening
- Header mount: Hardware fitted into the door frame or lintel
- Material: Galvanised steel for general use, stainless steel for food/hygiene applications
Our mounting kits include everything you need for secure installation.
Step 3: Install the Mounting Rail
- Use your level to ensure the rail is perfectly horizontal
- Drill into solid material (wall rather than thin frame where possible)
- Fix securely with appropriate screws and plugs
- Test the mounting is solid before proceeding
Step 4: Prepare Your Strips, or better yet, leave it to us!
How do you cut PVC strip curtains? To cut strip curtains, simply measure your strip to the desired length and cut it with a heavy-duty cutter or utility knife. Remember to cut each strip an extra inch or two longer, as strips usually shrink slightly.
- Cut strips to your measured height
- Allow them to hang and settle if they’re curled from storage
- You can do final trimming after a day or two once they’ve straightened
How to straighten PVC curtains? Let them hang for a few hours – PVC strip curtains often just need time to hang so they can straighten out again. The weight of the strips usually is enough to get them into their correct position once installed.
| Not keen on preparing your strips? No problem, with our PVC curtains, you won’t need to do this part at all.
At Seal Company, we take care of this step for you before sending the curtains. Your curtains will arrive at the correct length and with the hook-on plate sets already attached. Making the whole set-up a breeze. |
Step 5: Hang the Strips
How do you hang PVC curtains? To hang strip curtains, align the holes of the curtain with the holes in the mounting hardware. Insert the S-hooks or J-hooks through the holes in the curtain and mount them onto the hardware.
For hook-on systems (which we recommend):
- Start by hanging every other strip first
- Then go back and fill the gaps
- This ensures even spacing and proper overlap
How much overlap should curtains have? The overlap depends on your specific needs. The Seal Company PVC curtains have a 25% overlap, making them an ideal choice for normal coldrooms and freezer rooms.
Some other applications and overlap guidelines include:
| Application | Overlap % | Best For |
| Normal coldrooms/freezer room | 25% | Standard insulation in temperature-controlled areas |
| Light pedestrian traffic | 30-63% | Easy access, basic protection |
| General mixed use | 50-77% | Balance of seal and accessibility |
| High wind | 77-100% | Maximum insulation and protection |
Step 6: Final Adjustments
- Check strips hang evenly and straight
- Verify floor clearance (should just skim or be 10-20mm clear)
- Test by walking through – strips should fall back into place smoothly
- Make any necessary adjustments
Looking to upgrade your sealing setup even further? Read our guide on how to replace fridge door seals for a complete efficiency fix.
Maintenance: Keep Them Working
How to clean PVC strip curtains? Use a clean and damp sponge with lukewarm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. First, use a dry soft towel to wipe off dirt and dust, then clean with the damp sponge that’s been wrung out until slightly damp but not soaking wet.
PVC strip curtains are low-maintenance, but a little care goes a long way:
- Cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface.
- Inspection: Regularly check for damage, particularly in high-traffic areas.
- Replacement: Individual strips can be easily replaced when damaged. With hook-on systems, it’s literally a case of unhooking the old strip and hanging a new one.
- It is also possible to fix strip curtains. The process involves choosing the right PVC strip for your environment, fitting the hanging rail, hanging the PVC strips, trimming the curtains, allowing time for straightening, cleaning the strips, and knowing when to replace curtain strips.
Making the Right Choice for Your Business
PVC strip curtains offer a practical solution to common workplace challenges. They save energy, improve workflow, enhance cleanliness, and provide excellent value for money.
At The Seal Company, we stock PVC strip curtains, including specialist options for freezer environments and food-grade applications. All our products come with the mounting hardware you need and clear installation guidance.
Whether you’re looking to reduce energy costs, improve hygiene standards, or simply make your workspace more efficient, PVC strip curtains could be exactly what you need.
Ready to get started, but not sure where to start? Get in touch and we’ll help you choose the right solution for your specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much overlap do I need?
It depends on your priorities. More overlap means better insulation and pest protection, but slightly more resistance when passing through. See our table above for guidance.
Can I install them myself?
Absolutely. When you buy PVC curtains from us, all you need to do is screw the long hanging rail above the door and then simply hang the curtains that arrive premade. It’s that simple!
What about different temperatures?
Our standard PVC works well in most environments, but for freezer applications, choose our Polargrade option, which stays flexible at much lower temperatures.
How long do they last?
With proper installation and reasonable care, PVC strip curtains can last for years. The ability to replace individual strips means the whole system stays effective long-term.
Do strip curtains work effectively?
Yes, this simple invention works by forming a blockade against air movement, making it more difficult for conditioned air to escape. They’re effective because they form a moveable wall that significantly reduces air loss.
What is the point of strip curtains?
The primary benefit comes from their temperature controlling effect. Because they act as a secondary barrier, they perform a similar function to traditional doors in stopping air from different rooms at different temperatures from mixing easily.
Do freezer curtains work?
Yes, freezer curtains play a critical role in maintaining temperature control in environments like cold storage facilities , refrigerated transport, and walk-in freezers.