Comparative analysis: PVC and concrete panels and traditional masonry

This article presents a comparative analysis between the construction system using PVC panels and concrete and conventional masonry, exploring their advantages and disadvantages in the context of civil construction. The main objective is to assess the feasibility of each method, considering factors such as sustainability, cost, efficiency, and environmental impact. The study was conducted based on a literature review of the mechanical properties of PVC, its resistance to degradation, and its practical applications in various areas of construction. Characteristics such as execution speed, durability, and environmental challenges were also compared. The results indicate that the PVC system offers significant advantages in terms of construction speed, resource savings, and durability. However, it presents challenges such as the emission of toxic gases in fire situations and limited suppliers, which can increase costs. Conventional masonry, although widely used and accessible, faces problems such as waste generation and quality control. It is concluded that both systems have their place in civil construction, and the choice between them should be based on a detailed analysis of the project’s needs, considering environmental impacts and long-term costs.