5 unknown Fabric Facts you must know before starting your Home Fitout

October 22, 2015

Making the right choice about the type of fabrics to use in a commercial fitout is so important.

What to put on restaurant banquette seating or dining chairs, on healthcare chairs, hospitality sofas, or office seating can make a heap of difference to your bottom line.

Upholstery on commercial furniture is a significant cost in a fitout.

The thought of having to repair and replace torn or stained fabric is expensive and disruptive.

Here’s a quick rundown on which are the best choices to make.

Leather:

High resistance to puncturing, tearing and fatigue.
Resists fire and flame.
Resistant to mildew and rot.
Highly durable
A natural material that breathes and is not sticky in hot weather.
Improves with age
A degree of wastage because of the shape and size of a hide
Fairly expensive

Vinyl:

There are various types, so go for a good quality commercial vinyl
High resistance to puncturing, tearing and fatigue.
Many types are resistant to mildew and rot
Highly durable
Doesn’t breathe like leather and is inclined to stick or cling slightly in hot, humid conditions
No wastage
Economical price point

Crypton:

A synthetic fibre
Has high moisture barrier technology and superior performance
High resistance to fatigue, tearing and abrasion
High level of protection from stains, odors, moisture, and mildew.
Offers longevity and economy
Average price point

Olefin:

A synthetic fibre
Resistant to stains, sunlight and mildew
Resists some moisture and dries quickly
Copes well in high traffic use
Heat sensitive can melt
Average price point

Wool:

A natural material
Excellent colorfast properties
Highly durable
Great Longevity
Easy Care – soiling sits on the surface, allowing time for the fabric to be blotted or vacuumed
Generates very little static
Flame retardant. Does not melt or emit fumes