In fastener systems, washers may seem like small and insignificant components, yet they play an irreplaceable role in sealing, waterproofing, vibration damping, and improving connection stability. Whether used in roofing systems, solar mounting structures, steel construction, HVAC systems, or mechanical equipment, the material of a washer directly affects the overall connection quality and service life.
Many customers often ask several important questions when selecting washers:
To help customers see the real differences, we also recorded an EPDM vs. PVC washer comparison video, showing actual bending, stretching, and compression tests to demonstrate the material behaviors.
In this article, we will break down both materials from the perspectives of structure, performance, application scenarios, and engineering selection.
Washers are among the most critical components in bolted systems. Their primary functions include:
In the photovoltaic industry, washers take on the dual responsibility of ensuring waterproof performance and long-term resistance to UV aging. In roofing construction systems, washers must maintain a reliable seal even under harsh weather conditions. In mechanical equipment, they must offer sufficient temperature resistance and compressive strength.
This is why material selection matters far more than price: choosing the wrong washer material can lead to screw loosening, water leakage, structural corrosion, and even engineering failure.
Among all washer materials, EPDM and PVC are two of the most commonly used options. Although they may appear similar on the surface, their actual performance differs significantly. Through this article and our comparison video, you will quickly understand the essential differences between the two.
EPDM is a high-performance synthetic rubber made from ethylene, propylene, and a third monomer. As a saturated rubber, it offers exceptional resistance to UV, ozone, and oxidation, making it a preferred choice for outdoor engineering applications.
Key advantages of EPDM:
These properties make EPDM ideal for applications that are exposed to outdoor environments for extended periods, such as photovoltaic systems, building facades, steel structures, and automotive seals.
PVC is a commonly used plastic material valued for its low cost and processing convenience. However, its flexibility depends on plasticizers. As plasticizers gradually evaporate over time, PVC becomes hard, brittle, and prone to cracking.
Characteristics of PVC:
Therefore, it is not recommended to use PVC gaskets in outdoor engineering projects, especially those with large temperature fluctuations and strong sunlight.
Although both EPDM and PVC are commonly used in washer products, the performance gap between them is truly on a “different level.”
EPDM offers outstanding outdoor durability and does not crack or harden.
PVC ages quickly and often becomes brittle in 1–2 years of outdoor use.
EPDM: –40°C to 125°C
PVC: –15°C to 60°C
EPDM: High elasticity and excellent rebound
PVC: Poor elasticity and prone to permanent deformation
EPDM withstands acids, alkaline environments, and corrosive substances.
PVC is easily affected by oils and chemicals.
EPDM: 10–20 years
PVC: 1–5 years
| EPDM Recommended Applications | PVC Suitable Applications |
|---|---|
| Solar mounting systems | Indoor furniture hardware |
| Metal roofing and cladding | Small household installations |
| Steel structures & curtain walls | Non-critical fastening points |
| Automotive doors & windows | Short-term, low-load structures |
| HVAC systems | Lightweight indoor equipment |
| Chemical plants & coastal projects | Cost-sensitive indoor use |
EPDM is used in environments requiring long-term reliability, high weather resistance, and stable sealing.
PVC is suitable mainly for low-cost, indoor, or short-lifespan projects.
In our EPDM vs. PVC comparison video, their differences are evident:
These real tests visually demonstrate EPDM’s superior material performance.
Solar applications impose extremely demanding conditions on washers, making EPDM the industry standard.
EPDM is the industry standard because it:
For module clamps, roof attachments, and metal sheet connections, EPDM washers are strongly recommended.
The EPDM BAZ washer is a crucial component for fastening metal sheets, sandwich panels, artificial roof tiles, and fiber cement panels to wooden and metal substructures. Its special geometry, combined with the EPDM material, creates a watertight seal at the fastening point. The EPDM rubber seal boasts excellent resistance to weather, UV radiation, and chemicals, ensuring a durable and waterproof installation.Meigesi provide different colors' Umbrella Washer Series.
The EPDM BAZ washer is a crucial component for fastening metal sheets, sandwich panels, artificial roof tiles, and fiber cement panels to wooden and metal substructures. Its special geometry, combined with the EPDM material, creates a watertight seal at the fastening point. This washer is particularly useful for polycarbonate sheets, especially corrugated ones. The EPDM rubber seal boasts excellent resistance to weather, UV radiation, and chemicals, ensuring a durable and waterproof installation.
Although EPDM and PVC washers may look similar, their performance and optimal application scenarios differ greatly.
If you need samples, test reports, or bulk quotations, feel free to contact us by email: sales@nbrhino.com. We are ready to provide the most suitable material solutions for your engineering needs.
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