fiberglass
Fiberglass | Source: © Pixabay

Fiberglass began hitting mainstream popularity 100 years ago, and it continues to pick up steam today. There are several reasons fiberglass is popular in construction, including its versatility and durability. Typically, fiberglass is blended with other materials for strength. Throughout this article, we’ll tell you the quality of fiberglass and discuss how it’s used in construction.

What Is Fiberglass?

Fiberglass is plastic reinforced by foam or glass fiber, which is why it’s often called glass fiber. The fiberglass is often woven into a sheet or flattened. There are different ways to make fiberglass, and it all depends on the usage. As well as being more robust than other materials, fiberglass can be molded into practically any shape. You will often find aircraft, boats, and bathtubs made of fiberglass. Here are the properties of fiberglass:

  • Rot-resistant. Rodents, insects, and water won’t rot fiberglass.
  • Non-combustible. Made from minerals, it won’t emit smoke or catch fire.
  • Poor thermal conductivity. Fiberglass won’t take in heat, making it an excellent insulator.
  • Insulates electricity. Electricity won’t flow through, making it perfect for data centers.
  • Super strong. Fiberglass is more robust than steel.
  • Combines with other materials. Fiberglass qualities can be given to other materials.

1. Fiberglass Conduits

Conduits are used above and below ground for many different reasons. Traditionally, they were made from metals or PVC. However, these materials are heavy and wear down quickly from rust and corrosion. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is lightweight, heat resistant, chemical resistant, and much more durable. If you need to update your existing conduit system, we recommend contacting a high-quality fiberglass manufacturer.

2. Fiberglass Composition Roofing

Fiberglass composition roofing is quickly becoming a popular choice for those looking to replace or build a new roof. It offers many advantages over the traditional shingle roof, including enhanced durability and an extended lifespan. Additionally, fiberglass roofing requires less maintenance thanks to its strong resistance to weather elements such as hail, wind, and rain.

Furthermore, fiberglass is an environmentally friendly choice as it does not contain any toxins and can be recycled at the end of its life cycle. As fiberglass roofs become more widely known, more people are choosing them to protect their homes from the elements while saving money in the long run.

3. Heat and Fire Protection

Fiberglass has the power to withstand temperatures of up to 1000°F, and it’s a poor conductor of heat. Therefore, fiberglass is used to insulate buildings. Further, it can be used to create heat-resistant roofing and be installed into double walls.

4. Earthquake-Resistant Bricks

Earthquakes have the power to bring down buildings in minutes, which is why research has found new ways to build stable structures in earthquake-prone areas. For example, interlocking bricks made of fiberglass can be used to build walls that can deal with horizontal waves. Unlike traditional bricks, interlocking bricks don’t need joining with cement-like materials.

5. Transparent Screens

Fiberglass is easy to manipulate into practically any shape, and it can be used to create strong opaque products. This quality is why it’s great for installing transparent screens in homes. To avoid having a screen that doesn’t match the rest of the house, translucent fiberglass screens can be finished with glass paint. As well as installing screens, fiberglass can be added to roofing to allow light to flood a room.

6. Rust-Proofing Structure

Buildings in humid areas are susceptible to rust, which is why certain metals can’t be used. As an alternative, wood can be used, but it will rot without consistent treatments. Fiberglass, however, won’t be broken down by the water or adverse weather, making it the perfect alternative.

Fiberglass is strong, durable, and extremely versatile, making it the perfect material for countless construction tasks.

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