The low FRP pricing might seem lucrative, but there are several downsides. The FRP panels have gone downhill as they don't offer 100% protection against moisture resistance. The PVC panel suppliers at Duramax offer custom-made wall materials at factory-direct rates. If it's FRP vs. PVC, invest in vinyl wall materials rather than moldy FRP. For numerous reasons, most businesses, like dairy farms, grow rooms, fisheries, marinas, Laundromats, shipping containers, and so on, install PVC panels over FRP. Here are the prime reasons why PVC is better than fiberglass.
FRP has poor water resistivity
Regarding water resistance, FRP vs. PVC will have vinyl as the winner. The FRP panels are not 100% waterproof as the OSB backer board absorbs moisture and the crevices trap liquids at the corners. The trapped moisture inside the panels can lead to molding, rotting, and peeling of the wallboard. Rather than wasting money in installing water-absorbent FRP panels, consider switching to PVC. The vinyl wall panels have no backers, and the non-porous surface is devoid of crevices. The PVC panels are 100% waterproof as there are no chances to trap moisture or absorb liquids. The moisture sheds down the PVC panels rather than settling on them, leading to microbial infestation. That's why waterproof PVC panels ensure a mold-free, antibacterial paneling solution inside wet commercial applications.
FRP panels are not fireproof
Sorry to bust the myth; FRP panels are not fire-resistant. The plastic FRP panels have wooden backers that easily get ignited and can speed up fire outbursts. The FRP panels are not suitable for fire-prone zones and emit carbon dioxide that can be detrimental to health. On the other hand, PVC panels are non-combustible and have a Class A one-hour fire-resistivity. With no wooden backer board, the vinyl panels can withstand fire outbreaks and are ideal paneling solutions in high fire-prone zones like marinas, warehouses, Laundromats, and the like.
FRP panels are high maintenance
Even if FRP pricing is lower than PVC, the fiberglass material has a rough surface and is high maintenance. You need to call professionals every few months to repair the moldy FRP. The vinyl panels have a smooth exterior layer that doesn't stain, fade or turn yellowish, while FRP wall material gets discolored easily and needs professional cleaning assistance. If you want to install low-maintenance wall panels that won't drill a hole in your pocket, Duramax PVC Panels are a better alternative than FRP.
FRP installation is costlier than PVC
Did you know that FRP panels cost lesser than PVC, but the installation is double the material cost? The FRP panels require adhesives, rivets, panel trimming, wooden backers, and at least 2 skilled laborers for the installation. All these make the FRP panel installation expensive, laborious, and slow. On the other hand, PVC panel kits offer a DIY installation that hardly requires one contractor to install the panels within 7 hours. In addition, the PVC panels require no extra materials and have a limited lifetime warranty that ensures their longevity.
Get PVC panels in 2 weeks at factory rates. Request a quote now. Call 323-991-7507. Book a free consultation.