FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about GRP

What is GRP?

Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) is commonly known as fibreglass. Developed during World War Two for use in aeroplanes, it is a material made up of plastic which has been reinforced by fibres made of glass.

GRP's major benefit is that it can be moulded into virtually any shape.

Fibreglass is a safe, durable alternative to brick, stone, or metal. Our staff can replicate virtually any architectural feature in fibreglass. The lightness of the installation means that it can be fitted to a non-load bearing roof or other structure. The finished product is natural looking, long lasting and maintenance free.

Why use GRP?

GRP (fibreglass) is the ideal material for producing items where durability, flexibility of design and a lightweight product is required. A wide variety of finishes are available.

Our staff can replicate virtually any architectural feature in fibreglass. The lightness of the installation means that it can be fitted to a non-load bearing roof or other structure, cutting out heavy manual handling problems. The finished product is natural looking, long lasting and maintenance free.

Will using GRP save time?

GRP Building Products can work with you to design a product or can replicate a building feature from a photograph. Considerable time is saved in the installation process. For example, fibreglass brick effect cladding panels can be fitted to a non load bearing wall without the need to reinforce the structure or footings. The panels can be easily fitted to a timber frame, either off or on-site, cutting out the need for further brick work construction.

Is fibreglass durable?

Our 10 year guarantee is among the best in the business. We are able to give it following extensive testing by industry watchdogs, at RAPRA. We are confident that our products should last a lifetime, they are hardwearing, weather in a way similar to standard brickwork and are completely waterproof.

What are brick effect panels?

GRP Building Products is a supplier of brick effect fibreglass panelling. Lightweight fibreglass panels are produced in our Kingswinford factory and can be fixed onto the outside of a new build or older building.

Our staff can match the brick finish of any building, making GRP the ideal solution when creating a garage or garden building at a traditional brick built house.

The panels are light and durable, ruling-out heavy manual lifting issues on building sites, and can be supplied ready attached to a wooden frame if necessary and with insulation to reduce heat loss.

What material will be used in the construction of GRP?

GRP is a composite material made up of polyester resin reinforced with glass fibres. The composite can then be moulded to take on virtually any shape or finish. The glass fibres give the product its lightweight yet hardwearing qualities. It is non-corrosive making it ideal for the construction of building features such as cupolas or chimneys.

What kind of finishes can you reproduce / replicate?

The development of fibreglass opened up many new avenues for creative designers, its unique physical properties allow it to be easily tooled, moulded and manufactured to meet almost any specification. This allows architects and designers to achieve a great finish in any style or colour at a cost effective price.

GRP's team can replicate a wide range of finishes and can even age them to fit perfectly with the surrounding environment.

Finishes include:

• Brick
• Slate
• Brass
• Lead
• Iron
• Natural or reconditioned stone
• Roughcast render
• Tyrolean render
• Stock facing brick

How long will it take to manufacture my items?

Finished items are ready for delivery within two to three weeks from the date of your order.

Products can be brought off the shelf or made to a unique design. An experienced member of our team can assist you at the design stage and will work from a plan or a photograph of a feature you wish to replicate.

What product guarantees can you provide?

Our expert processes enable us to offer a 10 year guarantee among the longest available in the industry. This has been certified through RAPRA an independent and respected body responsible for setting industry quality standards. We are confident that our products should last a lifetime, they are hardwearing, weather in a way similar to standard brickwork and are completely waterproof.

Will my products require any maintenance?

GRP products require little or no maintenance as they do not rust, rot, or fall to pieces. They can be easily cleaned using soapy water and a cloth.

What is the life expectancy of your products?

Our products are hardwearing, weather in a way similar to brickwork and are completely waterproof. In fact, some of our first installations, dating back to 1974 are still in place.

Do GRP products comply with building regulations?

At the initial design stage GRP Building Products Ltd can offer advice and guidance about how our products could comply with buildings regulations that may affect your project.

What kind of adhesive would recommend?

We recommend the use of a tried and tested adhesive.

Sikaflex adhesive and sealant systems are extensively used in the marine industry. They will provide a tough, waterproof, yet flexible bond between a multitude of materials and can be used with confidence above and below waterline.

Methacrylate adhesives offer good flexibility at low temperatures, excellent bond strength and medium/fast cure.

How do I affix GRP products?

GRP panels are relatively simple to fit and can be secured to either timber battening or panelling.

Panels are simply screwed to the timber batons and the joints are covered with a layer of mixture provided by GRP Building Products.

Panels join side to side with a stack bond pier and top to bottom with an overlapping joint. The stack bond allows brickwork to wrap around corners.

Do I need any special tools to install GRP products?

No specialist equipment is necessary. A drill, hammer, spirit level and screws should be sufficient.

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