Chat with us, powered by LiveChat

How did FRP Panels become the Standard and why are they Outdated Today?

06 September, 2018

FRP, or Fiber Reinforced Plastic, was first developed in the 1930s by Leo Baekeland. Its innovation gained popularity due to its use of fibers to reinforce the strength and elasticity of plastic. The lightweight and practicality of FRP enabled it to be used for planes, wind turbines, ships, and even tiling.

Visit the Website for a free quote or sample

Reach us at 323-991-7507!

How did FRP gain prominence as a wall paneling solution?

Due to FRP’s popularity, there were many deviations from its original purpose in order to enter new industries. One of these deviations was FRP Wall Panels, essentially a sheet of fiber-reinforced plastic glued onto a wall. FRP Wall Panels were intended for areas with wet environments and needed prevention from wall mold. It proved to be the most adequate solution at that time.

The popularity of FRP panels accelerated, and most industries trusted them for their indoor paneling solution. However, FRP Panels were not ideal for exterior walls as they are not weather protected, and the backer boards absorbed moisture, leading to dampness and mold growth. However, due to a lack of options, FRP panels remained the only solution, and people accepted it even with the disadvantages. 

Technology has advanced dramatically since the 1930s, but you can still see FRP Panels in the USA in old restaurant kitchens, restrooms, warehouses, or offices nationwide today! You may even notice some of these FRP panels peeling off the wall over the years too. One would ask if there has been any innovation for walls in the past 80 years, and the answer is, of course.

Vinyl Panels: The ideal and functional replacement for FRP Panels

The PVC industry identified the performance gaps in wall paneling with FRP panels and began researching molding PVC as wall panels. Vinyl Panels were designed based on the practicality of FRP sheets while solving the weaknesses of difficult installation, peeling, and the risk of mold from water vapor over the years. PVC panels or Vinyl Panels are revolutionary in regard to wet environments such as carwashes, food processing, indoor farming, and refrigerated warehouses.

What makes Vinyl Panels stand out is that the entire panel is made of Vinyl, with ½” thickness and 16” width; it does not require any backer like plywood or OSB. No backer means no adhesive or rivets necessary that FRP requires. Less material required means shorter install time ay, lower material and labor costs.

For a free quote or sample, Check out the website!

Call 323-991-7507!

Vinyl Paneling is the latest technology in waterproof walling. Most water-resistant material like FRP or Cement is still susceptible to water vapor penetrating the vulnerable wood backing. Not requiring adhesive also means a greatly longer lifetime and lower maintenance. As most supporting materials break down over the years, replacements become costly. Vinyl Wall Panels become the complete solution to any wet environment solution.

Trust Duramax Panels for Vinyl Panels

Duramax is a leading PVC manufacturer and supplier in the USA. They are devoted to manufacturing quality panels with impressive resistance ability, exceptionally durable, easy to install and manufacture, and affordable. Duramax is a renowned brand and has ensured professional assistance and guidance for your projects. Our panels meet the stringent safety and quality standards of the FDA and are ASTM-certified, which makes them a safe and reliable paneling solution. If you are still hesitant to purchase, ask for a free sample.

Place your order – Request for a quote:

Our panels are ASTM certified and FDA compliant; also quality checked. We ensured Kevin that the kitchen would be free from the fire outbreak. The panels have a -hour fire grade also chemical resistant.

Duramax is a top wall panel supplier in the USA. Visit our website for a free sample, get a free consultation and request a quote.

Have a question? Tell us how we can help.

First Name(Required)
Last Name(Required)
Drop files here or
Max. file size: 10 MB.

    GET A SAMPLE
    GET A SAMPLE
    Save & Share Cart
    Your Shopping Cart will be saved and you'll be given a link. You, or anyone with the link, can use it to retrieve your Cart at any time.
    Back Save & Share Cart
    Your Shopping Cart will be saved with Product pictures and information, and Cart Totals. Then send it to yourself, or a friend, with a link to retrieve it at any time.
    Your cart email sent successfully :)