Disclosure: I supply PVC sheets. This guide is based on supplier experience and standard testing methods.
I get asked this a lot: How clear is clear PVC? The short answer is that most clear PVC sheets transmit 80–92% of visible light. Thin, high-quality sheets sit near the top. Thicker or frosted sheets are lower.
Here's what changes the number and how to choose.
What Light Transmittance Means
It's the percentage of visible light that passes through the sheet. A higher percentage means it's clearer. Lower means more diffused or opaque.
What Affects It
Thickness – Thinner sheets transmit more light. A 1 mm clear sheet can hit around 90%. A 5 mm sheet may drop to about 80%.
Resin quality – Pure, high-grade PVC resin has fewer impurities. That means less light scattering and better clarity.
Additives and surface finish – UV stabilizers, plasticizers, and colorants can slightly reduce transmittance. Frosted, matte, or textured surfaces scatter light and lower the number. That's why a Frosted PVC Soft Sheet looks diffused, not crystal clear.
Typical Range
Sheet Typical Light Transmittance
1 mm clear PVC ~90%
3 mm clear PVC ~85%
5 mm clear PVC ~80%
Frosted / textured PVC Lower, diffused
Exact numbers depend on formulation. Always ask for the supplier's test data if clarity is critical.
How It's Measured
A spectrophotometer or haze meter shines light through the sheet and measures how much comes out. Good suppliers test to ASTM or equivalent standards. If you need documented transmittance, ask for a test report.
Choosing by Application
High transmittance (>85%) – Greenhouses, display cases, retail covers. You want maximum light and clear visibility. Our clear PVC sheets work well here. For table protection, a Transparent PVC Table Cover gives good clarity.
Moderate transmittance (70–80%) – Office partitions, protective barriers, room dividers. You get light through, plus some privacy.
Low / diffused transmittance – Frosted sheets, decorative panels, soft lighting. These reduce glare and create a softer look. A Multi-functional PVC Foam Sheet can balance light transmission and insulation.
Our Clear PVC Sheets
We offer clear PVC sheets in different thicknesses, sizes, and finishes. If you need a specific transmittance level, we can help you match it. We also supply frosted sheets, transparent table covers, and PVC foam sheets.
Why customers choose us:
Consistent quality from high-grade resin
Custom thickness, size, and finish
Competitive pricing
Technical support before and after the order
Need Help Choosing?
Tell us your application, thickness, and clarity requirement. We'll recommend the right clear PVC sheet. Contact us for samples or a quote.