Fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP) is a strong, lightweight, and durable material that can be used for a variety of applications in construction. Combined with traditional materials like concrete and steel, it can improve the structure's strength, stiffness, and durability of the structure while also reducing the weight and cost of the overall project. This blog post will examine the benefits of combining fiberglass with other materials.

Combining Fiberglass Products

There are many reasons why traditional materials are still commonly used in construction, with a key benefit being they have been used for decades and are trusted in their applications. However, as technology and materials advance, new materials or combinations of materials can be used to enhance the construction. 

This section analyzes why combining fiberglass with traditional materials offers many benefits.

Compatibility with Established Materials

FRP is compatible with many established materials used in construction, including concrete, steel, and wood. This makes it an ideal material for retrofitting existing structures, as well as for new construction projects. Common applications where fiberglass is commonly used with traditional materials include structural supports, stair and walkway railings, and fences (to name a few).

Durability and Longevity

FRP is resistant to corrosion, weathering, and chemical damage, which can extend the lifespan of a structure and reduce maintenance costs over time. It also has a high strength-to-weight ratio, which can improve the overall performance of the structure and reduce the risk of failure. Combined with the most appropriate materials, an FRP composite structure can withstand the harshest conditions and have a lifespan of over 50 years.

Sustainability

It is more sustainable than concrete and steel requires less energy than many traditional materials. 

Versatility of FRP

FRP can be customized to meet the specific needs of a project, making it a versatile material that can be used in various applications. For example, it can reinforce columns, beams, and slabs or create durable and lightweight roofing and cladding systems. The customizability of FRP offers vast potential for its applications while still allowing it to be used in combination with other materials if necessary.

Strongwell

There are so many materials that fiberglass can be combined with, such as aluminum, concrete and steel, to offer a durable and high-strength solution to construction projects. At Strongwell, we offer building panels, decking systems, grating, and custom products to support a wide range of applications.

Look at some of our case studies in which clients have combined traditional and fiberglass materials to enhance their construction projects.

Contact a team member today to learn how fiberglass can benefit your construction projects.