What are plastic panels called?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

Plastic panels, also known as plastic sheeting, have various names that are used interchangeably depending on the context and industry. These names include liners, vapor barriers, vapor retarders, films, polyethylene sheeting, poly sheeting, visqueen, plastic film, reinforced plastic, self-adhesive films, tarps, root barriers, underlayments, greenhouse films, plastic covering, and many more.

The term “liners” is often used when referring to plastic sheeting that is used to line the interior of structures or containers to prevent leakage or contamination. This can include lining the walls or floors of ponds, tanks, or industrial containers.

Vapor barriers or vapor retarders are types of plastic sheeting that are specifically designed to prevent the transmission of moisture vapor. They are commonly used in construction to reduce the risk of condensation and mold growth in walls, roofs, and floors.

Films and polyethylene sheeting are more general terms that encompass a wide range of plastic materials that are manufactured in thin sheets. These sheets can be transparent, translucent, or opaque, depending on their intended use. They are commonly used for packaging, wrapping, and protection of various goods.

Visqueen is a brand name that has become synonymous with plastic sheeting, particularly in the construction industry. It is often used as a generic term to refer to any type of plastic sheeting, similar to how we use the term “Kleenex” to refer to facial tissues.

Reinforced plastic refers to plastic sheeting that has been reinforced with additional materials, such as fibers or mesh, to increase its strength and durability. This type of plastic sheeting is often used in construction, agriculture, and landscaping applications where greater structural integrity is required.

Self-adhesive films are plastic sheets that have an adhesive backing, allowing them to be easily applied to surfaces without the need for additional adhesives. These films are commonly used for temporary protection or decoration, such as covering furniture during transport or adding a decorative finish to windows.

Tarps, short for tarpaulins, are large sheets of plastic that are often used as temporary coverings for outdoor structures or to protect goods from the elements. They are commonly used in camping, construction, and transportation industries.

Root barriers are specialized plastic sheets that are used to prevent the growth of roots into specific areas, such as near foundations or underground pipes. These barriers help to prevent damage caused by root intrusion and are commonly used in landscaping and construction projects.

Underlayments are plastic sheets that are used as a protective layer between a subfloor and flooring material. They help to reduce moisture transmission and provide additional insulation and cushioning.

Greenhouse films are transparent or translucent plastic sheets that are used to cover greenhouse structures. These films allow sunlight to pass through while protecting plants from harsh weather conditions.

Plastic coverings refer to any type of plastic sheeting that is used to cover or protect various objects or surfaces. This can include furniture covers, car covers, mattress covers, and more.

Plastic panels have a wide range of names depending on their specific use or industry. The various names mentioned above reflect the versatility and diversity of plastic sheeting and highlight its widespread applications in numerous fields.