Whether you are working on a design project for a school, restaurant, or retail space, opting for fiberglass-reinforced (FRP) panels is the best course of action when it comes to wall finish.
Keep reading to learn why!
What Are FRP Panels?
FRP panels (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic panels) are composite construction materials made from a combination of fiberglass and plastic resin. The core of FRP panels consists of a polymer matrix, which provides water resistance, and fiberglass reinforcement, which offers structural integrity. The surface of FRP panels is typically coated with gel.
How and Where Are FRP Panels Installed?
- Drywalls: FRP panels can be installed on drywall using adhesives or fasteners such as screws or nails.
- Plywood: Adhesives are typically the preferred choice for attaching FRP panels to plywood, creating a strong and long-lasting bond.
- Wall Tiles: Adhesives are commonly used for installing FRP panels over existing wall tiles.
- Concrete Block: Concrete block walls are a sturdy foundation for FRP panels. Adhesives provide a reliable method for affixing panels to concrete blocks.
- Existing Walls: Existing walls, whether they are drywall, tiles, or other materials, can be upgraded using FRP panels. Adhesives are the preferred choice for renovating existing walls with FRP panels, ensuring the new surface adheres securely to the old.
Unmatched Durability
When it comes to durability, FRP panels shine with a whipping span of over 50 years. FRP panels are also highly resistant to impact, scratches, and stains due to their gel-coated surface, which provides a hard finish. This surface is not only robust but also waterproof, adding to its overall durability.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
FRP panels have a smooth surface that facilitates easy cleaning and upkeep. A soft brush and a mild cleaner are typically all your cleaners would need to keep FRP panels looking pristine.
Cost-Effectiveness
While the initial cost of steel panels might be lower, the high installation and maintenance expenses associated with steel panels make FRP a more economical option in the long run. Although FRP might have a higher initial cost compared to wood, it pays off in the long term. Wood, though cheaper upfront, is prone to degradation, deterioration, and insect damage over time.
Versatility and Flexibility
One of the standout features of FRP wall panels is their flexibility in terms of colors, textures, and finishes. This versatility allows you to bring any of your creative visions to life.
Environmentally Sustainable
Did you know that FRP panels are recyclable? Recycling FRP composites is an even more environmentally responsible choice than recycling steel and aluminum because it consumes fewer resources.
The most widely adopted method for recycling FRP panels is mechanical recycling, which consists of grinding or shredding FRP panels into smaller fragments and then repurposing them to craft new composite materials. Alternatively, chemical recycling utilizes chemical processes to break down the FRP panels into their constituent raw materials to create new products.
Concluding Thoughts on FRP Panels
FRP panels are ideal for high-traffic areas, harsh environments, and places where exposure to chemicals and other substances is a concern. They maintain their structural integrity and appearance even in the face of heavy usage, making them perfect for environments like schools, gyms, restaurants, and building exits.
Have you decided to use FRP panels for your commercial project? In that case, you need expert installers. At Curtis Partition, we have years of experience installing FRP panels in restaurants. Check out this project, for example. Are you ready to start? Contact us today. We are always ready to get down to work.