GRC Cladding
DescriptionGlass Reinforced Concrete(GRC) is formulated with a cement and fine aggregate mix containing 5% of 25mm-long glass fibre strands. The glass fibre has a tensile strength three to four times greater than the equivalent steel fibre, making GRC a robust material with high impact resistance. Typically manufactured to a thickness of 10mm, GRC cladding panels are much lighter weight than their precast equivalents. GRC can be formed with a wide variety of textures and colours to replicate natural materials, reconstructed stone or concrete finishes.
Benefits
GRC cladding
- Provides the same durability and quality of finish as reconstructed stone
- Is ideal where limited access means small, lightweight panels are required
- Improves buildability - no need for scaffolding or heavy crane capacity
- Speeds up construction time - not affected by weather or labour shortages
Process
GRC is cast in timber or GRP moulds which are very similar to, though can be lighter than, those used for precast concrete. The GRC is sprayed into the mould in layers, the first layer being a pure cement/aggregate mix to form the seen surfaces and subsequent layers containing the chopped glass fibres. The spray gun contains both the grout nozzle and a glass chopping gun, so both grout and glass fibres are sprayed simultaneously. Each layer is compacted with rollers before the next is sprayed, to a total thickness of 10mm. The production cycle is 24 hours with the GRC unit being de-moulded around 16-18 hours after casting. Stiffening ribs and support/restraint fixings can be readily formed in the GRC panel, and are carefully detailed to prevent over-stressing in service, for instance by thermal movement.
Please see our case studies.