Lightweight
Products
Although GFRC has a similar density to concrete, the products
made from it are many times lighter due to the thin 10-15mm
skin thickness used. A cladding panel manufactured from
100mm thick precast concrete would weigh 240kgs per m2
compared to a similar GFRC panel of 40-50kgs/m2. In fact
many GFRC products can be lifted and carried by hand.
Corrosion
and Rot Proof
GFRC products do not contain mild steel reinforcement
and the problems associated with corrosion of reinforcement
do not apply. GFRC is unaffected by external exposure
and will not rot. It is completely unaffected by exposure
to UV light.
Incombustible
Most GFRC formulations comply with non-combustible criteria
for UK and EU standards. Polymer GFRC is not classed as
non-combustible but conforms to the requirements of Class
O defined by the British Building Regulations.
Appearance
GFRC has a wide flexibility in design and manufacture,
which enables it to reproduce most architectural styles
and features. It can replicate virtually any surface detail
and reproduce the appearance of materials such as stone,
slate, terracotta and marble. Carved stonework involves
specialised skills and is slow to produce making the end
product expensive. GRC can match stonework in appearance
and as it can be produced in thin sections it is easier
to handle and fix.
Cost Effective
GFRC Products have been shown to provide economic solutions
to many applications. Although the manufacturing costs
may be higher than say concrete, when the reduced handling,
transport and fixing costs are considered, there can be
an overall saving.
