PVC vs Polycarbonate Chair Mat | Head to Head Comparison

I’m sure you’ve ever been annoyed by the sound of chairs scratching the floor, and you must have wondered what could be the remedy, right?

So to solve your problem, chair mats are available in the market with all these qualities that fit on soft carpet or hard floor and do not destroy the carpet.

Nowadays, more and more people are using hobby or aesthetically pleasing wooden floors or ever-new design carpet floors, which are the best use of chair mats for protection.

If you are one of these people, then this article is written for you. It is pretty reasonable to discuss PVC vs Polycarbonate chair mats because chair mats are made with many different materials in the market.

The Initial Comparison Between PVC and Polycarbonate Chair Mat: Are They Identical?

It is essential to know the basic steps of any product before analyzing it, so the products produced by PVC and polycarbonate chair mat should be exposed first.

In addition, there is evidence that the ingredients used in the product have a severe effect on the product and that subsequent reactions to various compounds will be visual.

PVC and polycarbonate chair mats are never the same, as the plastic and versions used in them are pretty different from each other but are contained in the applications of multiple products used daily. Let’s go deeper into the main discussion without further ado.

What Is PVC Chair Mat?

PVC is rigid polyvinyl chloride, the version of which is abbreviated as RPVC. Since PVC contains polycarbonate, it maintains the material’s transparency and is home to the most widely produced synthetic plastics made from the polymerization of vinyl chloride.

PVC plastic mainly comes in two sizes; one is flexible, and the other is rigid. The unique advantage of polycarbonate is that the material’s transparency allows it to be transparent and the bottom surface of the mat to be visible.

PVC chair mat is also known as floor protection because it is transparent as well as provides durability, and is the highest quality phthalate-free. Moreover, it can be used very quickly in the office, at home, or anywhere because it has a gripper back to reduce the movement on the hard floor, enable safety, and reduce carpet movement.

In addition, it allows easy movement, reduces fatigue, and has ergonomic benefits. The specialty of PVC chair mat is floor protection and made from 25% complete usable materials and 25% renewable energy, solar energy, and wind, which is highly environmentally friendly.

What Is Polycarbonate Chair Mat?

Polycarbonate is a unique thermoplastic that is impact-resistant, and the surface is more robust and more efficient. In addition, polycarbonate components weigh much less than glass but are stronger and more resistant than glass.

Polycarbonate contains high-quality engineered plastic material that provides a transparent surface, and you can create a curved surface without bending or cracking. Moreover, it is used in various products that you may see more than once a day, and in most cases.

It is more commonly used in products that require a transparent hard surface. Polycarbonate is more environmentally friendly than other plastics and is entirely usable.

Polycarbonate chair mats are made of extremely clean and rigid compounds that provide a smooth rolling surface on both sides of the carpet or hard floor desk chair. In addition, polycarbonate chair mats are odorless, phthalate-free, do not contain BAP, and require less energy to produce.

In addition, polycarbonate chairs are more durable than traditional PVC chairs in general office settings and do not flex or dimple on hard, low pile carpet surfaces.

What are the significant differences between PVC and Polycarbonate Chair Mat?

A detailed analysis of polycarbonate chair mat vs pvc chair mat will only be possible when the differences between these two particular elements are highlighted.

Moreover, you consider, PVC and polycarbonate are both chair mats but made of two different materials, so there is a tremendous amount of opposition or difference in the case of these two components reacting differently in several properties.

In addition to the reaction of several compounds in the components, the potential is revealed; for example, between PVC and polycarbonate, some are beneficial, and some are inverse.

Rigidity

Let me first talk about the flexibility of PVC chair mats, the ingredients used in them maintain a slight elasticity, making them dimpled and flexible under high pressure. On the other hand, polycarbonate chair mats are made of plastic that is relatively rigid and strong, which is not likely to cause flex or dimples if applied by force.

Moreover, you can easily roll the polycarbonate chair mats, but there is no possibility of creases. On the contrary, after flexing the vinyl PVC chair mats to mould the compressed carpet due to the excess weight pressure of the chair, as well as changes in size due to shrinkage.

Clarity

Neither PVC nor polycarbonate lags in terms of material clarity, but polycarbonate chair mats are more transparent than PVC chair mats and give a clearer view of the floor.

However, this does not mean that PVC chair mats are not suitable for clarity. Still, if you need more clarity of the floor, then polycarbonate material makes the transparent floor visible.

Long Durability

Before using a product, it is essential to determine its durability because the chair mat is a daily use product, so this long durability should not be neglected.

Various experiments and reviews have found sufficient proof of the long durability of PVC and polycarbonate chair mats which is PVC chair mats are less durable than polycarbonate chair mats.

However, the materials used in traditional PVC chair mats have long been preferred by users for office or home use. On the other hand, the introduction of industrial polycarbonate chair mats has many new features a few steps ahead of PVC chair mats.

But there is no reason to think that PVC expires quickly, is weak, or is not usable, but polycarbonate has relatively long durability between mats with two components. This naturally means polycarbonate material can last longer than PVC in terms of use.   

Soft & Hard Floor

PVC chair mats are only suitable for use on hard floors but not as convenient for carpets. Again the polycarbonate chair mats are quickly compatible with both hard and soft floors. Not only that, the soft floor of the carpet is perfect for use on hard floors such as wood, laminate, vinyl, tiles, stone, etc.

PVC chair mats can slip quickly if used on soft floors, so it is best to avoid soft floors. Alternatively, polycarbonate chair mats can be spread on the carpet or directly on the floor and used at home or in the office.

Chair mats are needed for home or office, so you have two great options to choose from: polycarbonate and PVC. You have to choose one of the mats made of these two unique ingredients.

In that case, differentiate the qualities between the two chair mats so that you can get the chair mat according to your needs.

What are the most important things to consider before purchasing PVC or polycarbonate chair mat?

The chair mat is one of our daily necessities which is mainly used on the floor, but so the selection of the mat cannot be neglected, the user must know the details about the behavior and type of the different materials of chair mat as well as what kind of level or frequency is appropriate.

In particular, chair mats are needed for home or office, so you have two great options to choose from: polycarbonate and PVC. You have to choose one of the mats made of these two unique ingredients. In that case, differentiate the qualities between the two chair mats so that you can get the chair mat according to your needs. 

Color & Material

The color scheme is quite aesthetic, and the chair wants to keep the floor visible in the mat selection. Again, many people prefer mats with colorful patterns which are made of plexiglass, vinyl, work, wood finish, and sisal.

However, polycarbonate is at the top of the list if you want to get an affordable material considering the construction material of the chair mat is long-lasting and durable.

On the other hand, PVC plastic chair mats protect your carpets from the fading effects of the castor wheels on the chairs.

Flooring Type

Before buying a chair mat, you must consider the type of floor under your chair because a polycarbonate mat between PVC and polycarbonate chair mat is suitable for all floors, but PVC is more compatible with the hard floor. If your room has only one carpet or hard floor, the floor must be in harmony with the chair mat to avoid moving the mat.

Polycarbonate and PVC are made of different materials, so there is a big difference in their smoothness and flexibility; if your floor is hard, like tiles, vinyl, and wood, it is best to consider the mat with smooth baking.

You would not want to damage your carpet but choose a mat that will create a good grip as well as avoid repeated movement. Also, if the drug in your chair is thinner than the carpet, it may crack or bend, so choose a mat-based on the floor and know your flooring.

Not only that, some floors or carpets are extra smooth and slippery, so it is a good idea to choose a thick mat with small clips to hold your mat tightly to the floor.  

Mat Thickness

If you are looking for a standard chair mat, its thickness is up to about two and a half millimeters thick, and you can choose a three-millimeter thick chair mat to be compatible with the carpet on the floor.

But keep in mind that the thicker the carpet, the thicker the mat should be. In addition, it is recommended to use a whole chair mat up to 5 mm in case it is considered as a carpet pile.

Anti-Static Mat

Excessive friction between the wheels of the chair with the carpet can generate hazardous electricity. Moreover, if you have a computer or any other electrical appliance in your work area, buying anti-static stones must be considered the best.

In case of any hazardous occurrence in everyday equipment, take precautionary measures and choose resistant mats.

Size & Shape

In most cases, chair mats are readily available in rectangles in the early stages, but many people choose triangular or oval shapes for some variations. Again the user moves slightly forward from the chair mat to keep his feet, so the movement of the desk and the user should be measured to determine the chair mat of the desired size.

It is good to have some idea about the size; for example, the minimum size of chair mats is 30×46 inches, and standard chair mats are 36×46 inches. However, if you want a mat for a little more space, you can order a larger size.

Moreover, in many offices or workplaces, many are brought together by customizing the size.

Price

PVC and polycarbonate chair mats are readily available at different prices and always maintain a balance between price and quality. Chair mats, for example, are just as effective as PVC chair mats and are budget-friendly because they are less expensive than ordinary wood finishes.

However, if you want to get a customized chair mat to suit the needs of the workplace, you can notice a slight price difference.         

PVC vs. Polycarbonate Chair Mat: Which Is Better and Why?

In this article, we are discussing two more used chair mats in the market: PVC and polycarbonate chair mats. However, I would like to point out that these two mats directly have unique qualities.

But when you have to choose which chair mat is more suitable for your office or home, it is quite normal to panic. So in this part, we will tell you more about which PVC and polycarbonate chair mats have more quality, so let’s get started.

Transparent

PVC chair mats lag behind in terms of transparency, but polycarbonate will never disappoint you. Then, the lower part of the carpet or floor is fully visible and fits seamlessly.

Longer Lifespan

Not possible to buy a mat every day, but since the chair mat is durable and sticks firmly to the floor, polycarbonate is perfect because all the ingredients in it make your mat last longer. Polycarbonate and can last up to 10 years longer than PVC chair mats in general.

Slide or Slip

PVC chair mats slide on smooth floors, suitable for a hard floor. On the other hand, polycarbonate does not slide or slip, which helps you to concentrate on the actual work. 

Durability

Polycarbonate chair mats are definitely the opposite of PVC or wood mats and are much more durable or flawless. It also has a lot to do with how much weight or how much pressure your chair mat can withstand. In that case, polycarbonate is permanent as well as intact. 

Comparatively Cheap

Incredibly cheap with longevity and high-quality service delivery as well as facilities. That means you can get in any range.

Odorless

Polycarbonate chair mats are made of special plastic and other completely odorless materials and help maintain the standard in any environment.

Comfortable

Between PVC and polycarbonate chairs, polycarbonate is well suited to balance well on a hard floor and provide a comfortable feel.

Easy Cleaning

Although it may seem unbelievable to you, cleaning chair mats is like cutting butter and shining like brand new after cleaning the mat even after your extended use.

Polycarbonate chair mats made of plastic are extremely strong and easy to clean; however, the PVC chair deviates from its normal position when the mat is washed or over-stretched.    

Stylish

Things that can be used anywhere in the workplace or at home significantly impact making our living environment more attractive. Similarly, chair mats come in a variety of designs and colors that enhance the beauty of the room as well as the mood.

Moreover, you can customize the PVC and polycarbonate chair mats in the desired color and size.   

Stay Flat

Shrinking the mats is very annoying, which can cause some frustration during one’s work, as PVC mats prevent the floor from being flat. On the other hand, polycarbonate mats have no worries because they are fixed on the flat part without any movement.

Fire-prevention: The product must be environmentally friendly as well as safe, so polycarbonate is fire-resistant. You have to be safe because no one wants to be the victim of an accident.     

Frequently Asked Question

1. Why do you need a chair mat in your home office?

The primary purpose of using chair mats is to protect the casters of chairs from being generated or destroyed by friction with hard floors or carpets. The heavyweight of the chair rests on the entire wheel, which crushes and flattens the carpet fibers.

Not only is the floor hard, but the floor is soft and smooth. It would help if you had good-quality chair mats with chairs for the office or home.     

2. How do I get a new chair mat flat?

Despite buying chair mats at higher prices, sellers do not send new chair mats in entirely flat condition, which is very frustrating for the users. In this case, adjust the temperature of your room before unrolling the mat so that the mat can be standard.

Next, keep the mats flat for several days, using heavy objects, and especially near the heat source or the sun. Turn the mat upside down one day at a time so that it returns to normal.

3. What material is used for chair mats?

Polycarbonate plastic is one of the unique materials used to make chair mats, and other components include tempered glass, rubber, vinyl, and PVC. However, polycarbonate chair mats are compatible with any environment and are environmentally friendly as well as non-flammable which is exceptionally safe.

Not only that, polycarbonate material is a thermoplastic extraordinarily durable and incredibly easy to mold, which is often used in many products.

4. Can you use polycarbonate chair mats on the carpet?

Since polycarbonate chair mats are one of the most popular and widely used products, manufacturers of different brands have come up with different categories such as low pile carpets, middle pile carpets, and hard floors that match the length of the carpet to ensure the style of the chair mats.

Polycarbonate chair mats on hard floors do not have small dimples to hold the carpet, so never install spiked chair mats on hard floors. Polycarbonate chair mats are compatible with any environment and can be used on all types of floors.

Considering a tempered glass chair mat can be a minor upgrade if you want to use it for your home office.

Wrap Up

At the end of the article, we will not explain anything to you separately, but we will say that we have given a detailed description of PVC vs. polycarbonate chair mat in this lengthy discussion. We hope you will be able to confirm which mat is worth buying for your home office.

Undoubtedly polycarbonate and PVC chair mats are suitable for use in their own right, but of course, there are differences between them such as material, structure, clarity, and shape.

However, for the use of world-class chair mats, it is better to give maximum priority to your needs and preferences. Thus, we do not want to confuse you with any extra doubt, many good wishes for you so that you can find the answers to all the questions deep in your mind in this article.