If you are considering installing FRP panels for marinas, stop and rethink. The expenses with FRP panels are pretty high. The costs are never-ending, from needing additional materials for installation to regular maintenance. Moreover, FRP panels are also vulnerable to moisture and impacts. This makes them an expensive option for commercial spaces like marinas. The moisture-exposed marina facilities are at risk of dampness and contamination. However, FRP panels can do little to offer the required protection. 

In this blog, we will look into the reasons behind the soaring FRP pricing. Also, we will find out the ideal alternative to these panels. So, let’s get going.

Why are FRP panels not a reliable solution for marinas? 

Marinas needs a durable and long-lasting solution for the challenging environment. Ordinary options like FRP marine wall panels do not meet the requirements. They deteriorate with dampness, mold formation, and peeling off. Hence, there is a need for expensive and time-consuming maintenance. Plus, they also need frequent repairs and replacements. All these add up to the overhead expenses. 

• Absorbs moisture: FRP panels have a porous surface. Additionally, they require wooden backer boards for installation. As a result, they absorb moisture, and the wooden boards start rotting over the years. This gives rise to dampness in the interiors, along with a stinky environment. 
• Contaminates: FRP panels have joints and crevices in between. They accumulate moisture, dirt, dust, and oil and promote contamination. Furthermore, the damp surface of FRP panels acts as a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Hence, contamination is a common issue with these panels. Thus, they are not ideal for moisture-prone spaces like marinas.
• Prone to damage from fire: The wooden boards used in FRP installation are vulnerable to fire. Hence, they fuel any unforeseen fire incident with any accidental flame. As a result, installing FRP panels in marinas can be risky in terms of fire incidents. Further, this will increase repair expenses and make costly FRP pricing. 

All these disadvantages make FRP panels impractical for marinas. Additionally, the expensive installation and upkeep are reason enough to avoid using them in marinas. 

What is a reliable option for marinas? 

Lately, PVC panels are undoubtedly the best option for marinas. They tick all the requirement boxes for marinas. These panels are feature-loaded and exceptionally long-lasting. Besides, they offer remarkable resistance against moisture, mold, impacts, and fire. Thus, they are the ideal choice for marine applications in every aspect. Furthermore, these panels remain unaffected by excessive moisture exposure in the aquatic environment. They do not deteriorate over the years and remain functional and efficient for decades. So, when it’s about FRP vs. PVC panels, the latter is a clearer winner for commercial marine spaces. 

What makes PVC panels the right choice for marinas? 

As mentioned, PVC panels are featureful. They are a practical and effective choice for marinas. Besides, PVC panels are also designed to last long. Further, their impressive durability eliminates the need for regular maintenance and frequent repairs and replacements. They efficiently handle the challenges of marinas. They can efficiently withstand excessive moisture, heavy impacts, and other unforeseen situations. Furthermore, they are an affordable and cost-effective option for marinas. Additionally, they are also easy to install and save on material and labor expenses. Have a look at the features of PVC panels that play an important role in their popularity:

Resists moisture and mold efficiently

PVC panels are manufactured from virgin vinyl. As a result, they have a non-porous and water-proof surface. These panels do not absorb moisture. Hence, there is no chance of dampness or other moisture-related issues. Furthermore, they have a seamless surface that does not let moisture, dirt, oil, or dust accumulate on the joints. Thus, they do not promote mold or mildew formation and keep contamination at bay.

Lightweight and easy installation

Another remarkable feature that makes PVC marine wall panels practical is their lightweight. Moreover, they interlock using the tongue and groove method. This simplifies and fastens the installation method. Besides, they are ½” in thickness, so they do not need backer boards to support them. They can be directly installed with the help of studs and fasteners. These factors not only make the installation affordable but also cost-effective. Compared to FRP panels, PVC installation can save 40% on material and 50% on labor costs. 

Easy cleaning and minimal maintenance

One of the biggest takeaways of PVC panels is their low maintenance and easy cleaning. Their unmatched durability reduces the maintenance requirements. Besides, their smooth, crevice-free, and stain-resistant surface is easy to clean. You need not worry about time-consuming and extensive cleaning exercises. On the contrary, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild detergent is enough. Moreover, these panels do not turn yellow over the years. As a result, they have a pristine and clean appearance for years to come. In short, you save significantly on the cleaning and upkeep costs. 

Safe and hygiene 

Unlike the FRP panels for marinas, PVC panels are a hygienic option. They adhere to the safety and hygiene standards of the FDA and are ASTM-certified. Besides, they have an antimicrobial coating to prevent bacterial and mold formation. Additionally, PVC panels are class-1 fire-resistant. They do not fuel a fire and can remain unaffected by an hour of fire and flame. Further, they do not release toxic gases upon being burnt. These aspects make them a safe and hygienic solution for marinas. 

Choose your PVC panels from Duramax for the best deals

Shop for PVC panels from Duramax. Duramax is one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers in the USA. Our panels last a lifetime with a shelf life of 100 years. They do not rot, rust, mold, damp, fade, crack, or peel off. They remain unharmed and unaffected by the challenging conditions of marinas. However, the best thing about Duramax is its pricing. Unlike the expensive FRP pricing, Duramax offers factory-direct prices. Plus, you can enjoy a limited lifetime warranty on all our panels. Visit the website now to request a free sample!