Are metal suspended ceilings better than PVC panels for long-term heat exposure?

In high-temperature regions like southern Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, metal suspended ceilings outperform PVC panels in long-term heat resistance and stability. PVC panels begin to soften and warp when ambient temperatures rise above 60 °C—a frequent occurrence inside uncooled structures in cities such as Bukhara and Mary. This warping leads to sagging panels and misaligned joints. Aluminum alloys, however, have melting points above 600 °C and maintain rigidity even when midday sun pushes indoor temperatures upward. Thermally conductive aluminum also dissipates heat quickly, preventing localized panel expansion that can disrupt grid alignment. Additionally, coated aluminum surfaces resist UV-induced chalking and discoloration, whereas PVC fades and becomes brittle after prolonged UV exposure in environments like the Aral Sea region. For healthcare or hospitality facilities in Ashgabat, long-term visual consistency is critical; metal panels keep their uniform finish for decades, reducing repainting cycles. Maintenance teams benefit from the fire-retardant properties of aluminum, which complies with EN 13501-1 Class A standards, unlike many PVC products classified as combustible. In sum, for Central Asian projects facing sustained heat exposure, metal suspended ceilings provide unmatched durability, safety, and aesthetic longevity over PVC alternatives.