What is GRP Fibreglass?

If you’ve been thinking about having your roofing re-installed, a pool built, or even a pond lined, then you may have come across GRP fibreglass. This is a material that can do so many different things, but a lot of people aren’t really sure what it is. So, as fibreglass experts, we thought it would make sense to shed some light on the matter. Below, you will find out exactly what GRP fibreglass is and what it’s commonly used for.

What is GRP Fibreglass?

The most common mistake people make is assuming that GRP fibreglass is a combination of two different things. In reality, GRP stands for Glass Reinforced Plastic, and it’s the technical term for fibreglass. They’re two different terms for the same type of material! As such, don’t be fooled into thinking that ‘GRP fibreglass’ is a particular type of fibreglass – it’s not.

When we take a look at what GRP actually is, then it becomes apparent why people refer to it as fibreglass. In essence, glass reinforced plastic is a material that’s made up of two main things; glass fibres and a plastic matrix. These two things get fused and bonded together, which creates the fibreglass material we see in common use today.

What are the main properties of GRP fibreglass?

Fibreglass has many properties that make it a very sought after material in modern times. For one, it’s incredibly strong. In fact, you’ll struggle to find a material on the market that’s as strong as fibreglass is. It’s incredibly durable as a result of this strength, and it’s also uniquely resistant to corrosion. What this means is that it won’t rust or corrode as quicly as some other materials, which is why you often see it used outside. To add to this strength and resilience, it can also be temperature resistant. Therefore, when the temperature is either extremely hot or cold, the material won’t be damaged or negatively impacted. A lot of this comes down to the plastic resin matrix used in the creation of the specific fibreglass material. If you use a resin that’s already heat and fire resistant, then it makes the fibreglass less likely to burn or suffer heat damage!

With such a strong material you may assume that fibreglass is very one-dimensional with regards to how you use it. On the contrary, it’s also one of the most flexible materials you can use. When fibreglass is being moulded into different shapes and designs, there’s almost no limit on what you can achieve. This means it’s excellent when creating custom products for people.

Some people think that fibreglass is a very expensive material because of how amazingly diverse and strong it is. On the contrary, it’s one of the most cost-effective materials out there. Many materials on the market fluctuate in price, but fibreglass remains at a very constant price. Furthermore, the durability of it means that you essentially invest in something that’s guaranteed to last decades.

As if all this wasn’t enough, fibreglass also happens to look very nice as well. It can add a poished look to your structures, which is why so many people opt for it around the home.

What can fibreglass be used for?

GRP fibreglass has many uses for the average person. If you’re a homeowner, then you will benefit a lot from this material. A lot of people are choosing to have fibreglass flat roofing installed as opposed to the more traditional roofing materials. Why? Because it’s a much more durable material than the usual offerings, and it stands up to adverse weather conditions a lot better as well.

Two other popular uses for this material come in the form of fibreglass ponds and fibreglass swimming pools. Here, fibreglass is used because of how watertight and strong it can be. A lot of fibreglass ponds use it as the lining inside the pond hole to stop water leaking out and contain it all in the right area. The same can be said of swimming pools, but they’re also used to help make the pool/pond look a lot classier and more beautiful.

Homeowners and architects can also use fibreglass to manufacture custom mouldings for various purposes. There are so many things you can mould using this material, from boxes to funky little outdoor pieces; almost anything is possible.

GRP fibreglass is a special material with many uses and some amazing properties. If you’re interested in using it for a pond, pool, roof, or anything else, then get in touch with us today. We’re expert fibreglass manufacturers, and we’d love to help you with whatever project you have in mind.