GRC GUIDE
How Industry Experts Are Using Glassfibre Reinforced Concrete
Glassfibre Reinforced Concrete (GRC) possesses a versatility that few other materials can match, making it well-suited for an incredibly diverse range of applications.
These applications are varied but can be categorised into three primary uses: Architecture, Building and Engineering
Architecture
Likely the most well-known use of GRC is in architectural applications. Architects can leverage the material’s remarkable set of properties to push boundaries: forming unique and distinguishable designs, from modern futuristic structures to faithful reproductions of traditional historical features.
Applications
- Cladding: GRC can be used to form thin prefabricated architectural cladding panels that display a variety of surface textures and finishes. The lightweight nature of the GRC facilitates an expedited construction pace whilst its durable properties ensures a long product lifespan
- Features & Mouldings: The material’s malleability enables manufacturers to craft intricate and detailed architectural features and decorative elements which can be easily handled and installed – by hand in many cases
- Landscaping: Due to GRC’s weather-resistant attributes, the material is often used to produce landscaping elements such as planters, sculptures and paving stones
Building
In a broader sense, GRC has a plethora of uses in building applications due to its advantageous characteristics. With GRC, the pace of construction can be accelerated dramatically due to its lightweight nature. Buildings incorporating the material also require minimal maintenance due to its durability and longevity.
Moreover, the construction industry is currently suffering from a shortage of skilled workers – a problem which GRC can address by replicating the appearance of traditional materials, such as brickwork or carved stone, without requiring specialist masonry labourers.
Applications
- Roofing: In place of heavy and brittle traditional roofing materials such as slate, natural stone or clay, GRC can be used as a roofing material – demonstrating far superior impact-resistance, durability and weight reduction
- Walls & Windows: In its most simple form, GRC can be used as a long-lasting, crack-resistant material for walls but, if applied over external insulation, it can upgrade the thermal characteristics of existing blockwork or masonry. For windows, the material can be used to form windowsills and surrounds, meeting both functional and aesthetic requirements
- Renovation: GRC is a popular choice of material for renovation projects, due to its ability to adapt to the aesthetics of buildings and adhere to existing support structures without imposing significant weights. Beyond aesthetic improvements, the material can also improve the thermal and acoustic properties of the building
Engineering
Although less ‘glamourous’ than architectural and building applications, GRC’s uses in engineering are standout examples of the material’s versatility, demonstrating its functionality over aesthetics.
Applications
- Permanent Formwork: GRC permanent formwork is widely used in bridge construction, using small, easy to install, GRC panels. These panels are fitted between precast beams before the steel reinforcement is placed and concrete poured, protecting the steel from corrosion; moreover, they exhibit slow carbonation and low permeability, providing a barrier against the ingress of de-icing salts
- Utilities: When used in utilities, GRC can provide protection against both man-made and natural environmental hazards, moreover the lightweight nature of the material facilitates easy installation. In the railway industries, GRC is used to form ducts that run alongside the lines protecting electrical and communication cables
- Acoustics: In road and railway construction, GRC is used to form high-density noise barriers with smooth surface finishes that effectively disperse or absorb sound
- Bridges & Tunnels: GRC is often used to enhance the aesthetic value of bridges and tunnels without the imposition of excessive loads on the structures. The thin nature of GRC panels is particularly advantageous in tunnels lined with the material as there is minimal encroachment into the open space of the tunnel
- Water & Drainage: Dense, smooth surfaced GRC is often used for water and drainage applications to minimise resistance to water flow. These components can often be lifted and installed manually due to the significant weight reductions of GRC in comparison to traditional precast concrete
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GRC in Action
Want to see some real-life examples of GRC in action? We showcase a different GRC project every month in our GRC Case Study series – you can find the entire catalogue on our website or by clicking here.
