Every year, business owners, homeowners, and those who oversee offices and government buildings decide to enhance these structures through the addition of one or more architectural products. While choosing the right design is important, selecting an appropriate material for the job is also crucial. Architectural GFRP possesses several properties that make it a desirable choice for construction applications. Just a few of the advantages of GFRP are outlined below.GFRP Can be Placed Outdoors, Even in Harsh Climates
Elements crafted from architectural fiberglass are very durable. Some of the impressive properties of GFRP that make it a robust construction material include:
* Architectural fiberglass is unaffected by salt water, acid rain, and many different types of chemicals.
* Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer elements have, in some instances, stood up to extreme weather events without sustaining damage. FRP structures crafted by Stromberg Architectural, for example, withstood Hurricane Floyd (a category 5 weather event). It is worth noting that nearby structures crafted from other materials were completely destroyed.
* GRP products are unaffected by freeze/thaw cycles, and can therefore be kept outside all year round.
* FRP is so water resistant that it can be installed underwater.
GFRP has a Very High Strength to Weight Ratio
Amazingly, GFRP is, pound for pound, stronger than steel. Many types of architectural fiberglass are also very light, weighing between 2 and 4.5 pounds per square foot. This is advantageous from a construction standpoint because GRP elements can usually be installed without adding extra support to the surrounding structure. Lightweight architectural fiberglass elements can also be transported and installed relatively quickly and easily.
Fiber Reinforced Polymer Offers Great Design Versatility
One of the most important advantages of architectural fiberglass as a construction material is its versatility. GFRP can be molded into a variety of complex shapes and textures. GRP can also be finished to replicate the look of less durable, heavier, and more expensive construction materials, such as iron, coral, bronze, and stone.
Architectural FRP Can be Used in a Variety of Construction Applications
Another advantage of architectural fiberglass is that it can be used to craft a number of elements commonly found on or in private homes, churches, retail establishments, and resorts. Just a few common GFRP elements are fountains, planters, cornice, cupolas, and signs.
When considering GFRP products, it's important to choose a company that has experience fabricating architectural fiberglass, constructing molds, and developing a variety of architectural fiberglass elements. This is the best way to ensure the Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer element will perform optimally, whether it is placed indoors or outside.
Stromberg Architectural is the world's leading producer of GFRC and GFRP products, including GFRP columns, domes, cornice, and sculpture. Visit http://www.strombergarchitectural.com/materials/gfrp for more information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Collin_Davis
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