How Waites Mechanical Services Created A Warmer, More Flexible Factory Space With Hutchinson PVC

By Luke Hutchinson on Aug 6, 2026, 11:00:00 AM

Hutchinson PVC was approached by Waites Mechanical Services because they had an issue with their factory layout. They needed to section off part of a large factory space to improve heating efficiency and reduce dust, but without losing the flexibility and practicality their team relied on day to day.

Originally, the project was planned around a full L-shaped tension wall system. However, after further discussions and a closer look at how the space would actually be used, it became clear that a more adaptable solution would work better for the client’s operations.

Creating A Practical Multi-Purpose Factory Divider

The biggest challenge was functionality. Waites Mechanical Services needed a partitioned area that could help retain heat and reduce dust, while still allowing staff to access tools easily and keep the workspace open during warmer weather.

Traditional flexible PVC partitioning alone wouldn’t have provided enough strength for tool storage, so Hutchinson PVC designed a hybrid solution tailored specifically to the site.

The installation included:

• A 40m wide x 2.4m high single-skin timber stud wall
• PVC pelmets across the top to fully enclose the space
• A large 15m long x 7m high sliding PVC curtain with a clear vision panel for flexible access

By combining solid stud wall construction with flexible PVC curtain systems, the finished setup gave the client the best of both worlds. Staff could safely hang tools and equipment directly onto the timber wall, while the sliding curtain allowed the front of the area to remain fully open when temperatures increased during summer months.

Improving Working Conditions And Energy Efficiency

The primary goal of the project was to create a smaller working zone that could be heated more efficiently, helping to keep staff warm while also reducing the spread of dust throughout the wider factory.

Large industrial spaces are notoriously difficult and expensive to heat, particularly during the colder months. By sectioning off a dedicated operational area, Waites Mechanical Services could focus heat where it was actually needed rather than wasting energy across the entire building.

At the same time, the flexible curtain system ensured the space never felt closed off or restrictive. The large sliding curtain could be opened quickly whenever improved airflow or larger access points were required.

A Flexible Solution Designed Around The Client

One of the standout aspects of this project was the willingness to adapt the original specification in order to deliver a more practical long-term solution. Rather than forcing a standard partitioning system into a space where it wasn’t fully suitable, we worked closely with the client to understand how the factory actually operated day to day.

This collaborative approach allowed the final installation to solve multiple operational challenges at once. The finished partitioning also delivered a clean, modern appearance that complemented the client’s newly built factory environment.

The Result

The completed installation provided Waites Mechanical Services with a warmer, more controlled and more functional workspace that could easily adapt throughout the year.

The client was extremely pleased with the finished result, praising both the workmanship and the overall experience of working with Hutchinson PVC.

They said: “We've had a 60m factory divider in plywood and PVC, and an 18m curtain installed. The price was competitive, the installers were helpful and proactive, and the finished product gives a modern look to the factory.

“The standard of workmanship is very high. We wouldn't hesitate to use Hutchinsons again. Thanks to the whole team. You have been a pleasure to work with.”

Whether you need to improve heat retention, reduce dust, create safer working zones or introduce more flexible factory layouts, bespoke PVC partitioning solutions can make a significant difference to both operational efficiency and staff comfort.

And as this project shows, sometimes the best solution is not the original one planned, but the one designed around how your business actually works.

From PVC strip curtains and sliding curtain systems to full industrial partitioning installations, Hutchinsons PVC works with businesses across the UK to create practical, long-lasting workspace solutions. To discuss your project or request a quotation, contact the team today.