Boost Your Kitchen's Bottom Line Instantly with These 5 PVC Strip Curtain Tips

PVC strip curtains are one of the most cost-effective investments you can make for your commercial kitchen or walk-in cooler. A properly installed set of strip curtains can reduce energy costs by up to 40% — but only if you use them correctly. Here are 5 tips to get the most out of your strip curtains.

1. Make Sure They Overlap Properly

Strip curtains only work if the strips overlap by at least 50%. If there are gaps between strips, cold air escapes freely — defeating the purpose entirely. When installing, check that each strip overlaps its neighbor by half a strip width. Over time, strips can shift or warp, so check the overlap every few months.

2. Replace Damaged or Yellowed Strips Promptly

PVC strips degrade over time, especially in freezer environments. Yellowed, cracked, or brittle strips don't seal as effectively and can become a food safety hazard. If you notice any strips that are discolored, torn, or stiff, replace them immediately. The cost of new strips is minimal compared to the energy loss from a compromised curtain.

3. Clean Them Regularly

Grease, food particles, and grime build up on strip curtains over time — especially in busy kitchens. Dirty strips are harder to push through, which means staff start propping doors open instead. Clean your strips weekly with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. This keeps them pliable and easy to use.

4. Get the Right Thickness for Your Application

Not all strip curtains are the same. Thicker strips (3/16" to 1/4") provide better insulation and are ideal for freezer applications. Thinner strips are easier to push through and work well for cooler or ambient-to-cooler transitions. Using the wrong thickness means either poor insulation or frustrated staff who avoid using the curtain altogether.

5. Ensure Full Coverage from Top to Bottom

Strip curtains should hang within 1–2 inches of the floor. Any larger gap at the bottom allows cold air to pour out at floor level — which is exactly where cold air wants to go. When installing or replacing strips, always measure the full door height and add a couple of inches to ensure full coverage.