GRP is an acronym for Glass Reinforced Plastic. It is also known as FRP (Fibre Reinforced Plastic), fibreglass, or composite plastic. GRP is a fibre-reinforced polymer, otherwise known as a composite material. It is made from plastic reinforced with fine fibres made from glass, bonded together with a tough waterproof resin. Grit is often also added as an integral layer, creating an anti-slip surface that is not only incredibly durable and long-lasting but is highly effective in wet, oily, and icy conditions.

The development of GRP for commercial use was researched extensively during the 1930s. Due to its lightweight, inherent strength, weather-resistant finish, and variety of surface textures, it was seen as an incredibly versatile material with huge potential for use across a range of industries. GRP became widely used in the 1950s for the building of boats and sports car bodies. GRP is now used extensively across a range of industries and can be found in buildings, power plants, water treatment works, and railway stations, to name a few.

Why is GRP used?

The unique characteristics of GRP allow it to be moulded and manufactured to practically any shape or design. This allows for a huge array of design possibilities, making it extremely flexible to work with. It can also be manufactured in a huge variety of finishes, colours and sizes. GRP is corrosion and weather-resistant, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Despite its lightweight properties, GRP offers remarkable strength-to-weight load-bearing performance. It is low maintenance, non-conductive and impact resistant.

The numerous advantages of GRP mean that more and more architects, engineers, builders and developers are specifying GRP as a material of choice and alternative to wood, steel and concrete. Read more about the benefits of GRP here.

Where is GRP used?

GRP is used across a wide range of markets and sectors. In many industries, there is a use for a product made partially or entirely from GRP. Every day 100’s of people come into contact with our GRP manufactured goods. From the initial consultation to site surveys, design and fabrication, we supply and install GRP solutions for construction, rail, water treatment, energy and industries worldwide.

Just some uses of our GRP products:

• Service riser flooring
• Pedestrian walkways
• Access ramps and platforms
• Anti-slip protection for retrofitting to flooring/ walkways and ramps
• Ladders
• Handrails
• Trench covers
• Safety Gates

You can view a full list of our GRP products here.