Fiber reinforced plastics have lost their essence in the evolving construction industry. Initially hailed for its versatility, FRP panel has offered notable drawbacks and shortcomings, which are the primary concerns for many. The increased labor costs, time-consuming installation process, and ongoing maintenance make these plastics a high-priced paneling on all fronts. This blog discusses some of the negative aspects of FRPs witnessed by many contractors and owners today.
Fiber-Reinforced Plastics are Not a Long-Term Solution
A conventional FRP wall panel is susceptible to daily wear and tear. Keeping these plastics functional for years is extremely challenging as they are prone to cracks, peel-offs, discoloration, and cracking. After a few years of installation, FRPs tend to peel off due to the weakening of the adhesive. Because of this, there is a constant need to repair or replace FRPs.
Fiber Reinforced Plastics Become Prone to Mold Problems
Conventional FRPs require trimming between each panel to attain design accuracy. However, the presence of inter panel trimming makes it vulnerable to water vapor penetration. This later gives rise to mildew and mold infestation, visible through blemished and patchy walls. The susceptibility to mold growth and water absorption affects FRP's functionality and longevity.
Fiber Reinforced Plastics are Hard to Clean
Fiber reinforced plastics cleaning is extremely challenging. Their pores and texture surfaces make them harder to clean. You have to clean FRPs daily in order to keep them in pristine condition. However, this takes a lot of time and effort.
Poor Fire Resistance
Fiber reinforced plastics show high toxicity during fire hazards. They are quite flammable in nature, causing FRPs to show degradation. When they come in contact with fire, they produce a large amount of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and various kinds of chemical compounds.
Expensive Installation
One of the major drawbacks of fiber reinforced plastics is they are expensive to install. Since FRPs need a wooden backer, it increases the labor costs and material requirements. You need multiple installers to complete the FRP installation, which is a major drawback.
Switching to Affordable FRP Alternatives is the Wise Move
When it comes to choosing affordable FRP alternatives for commercial or residential paneling, Duramax wins your trust. At Duramax, we offer FDA-compliant and ASTM-certified PVC wall panels that stand the test of time. We have pushed FRP boards behind with our cost-efficient, durable, and resilient PVC wall and ceiling panels. Our lightweight PVC wall panels facilitate smooth and easy transportation. They never need replacement or refinishing, saving you money in the long run.
Custom Lengths are Available
Duramax PVC Wall Panels are abuse-resistant and meet or even exceed clients' expectations. Whether you are working on a commercial project or a residential basement upgrade, Duramax PVC Wall Panels effectively cater to your needs. Our ½-inch thick and 16-inch wide PVC panels are available in different construction lengths. Contact us to know more.
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