FRP, GFRC & GFRG — Frequently Asked Questions

All three are lightweight architectural composites that differ by binder and use. FRP (fiber reinforced polymer) is a fiberglass-and-resin composite at about 1.75–2.25 lb/ft² for exterior and interior trim. GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) is a cementitious skin at about 7–9 lb/ft² for exterior facades and heavy-profile elements. GFRG (glass fiber reinforced gypsum) is a gypsum composite at about 1.5–2 lb/ft² for interior columns, capitals, and ceilings.

GFRC is the standard lightweight alternative to precast. A GFRC skin weighs roughly 7–9 lb/ft² versus 90–120+ lb/ft² for solid precast, cutting facade dead load by roughly 90%. That reduces structural framing, foundation size, crane, and shipping costs while reproducing the same cast-stone or architectural-concrete appearance.

Use exterior exposure and profile weight as the first filter: GFRC for exterior facades, heavy cornices, and cast-stone looks; FRP for lightweight exterior/interior trim, deep cornices, and historic profiles where minimal structural load is critical; GFRG for interior-only columns, capitals, domes, and ceilings. Wilson Composites reviews drawings early and recommends the system per element rather than per project.

Yes. FRP is widely accepted for historic cornice and ornamental restoration because it reproduces terra cotta, cast stone, and sheet-metal profiles at 1.75–2.25 lb/ft², so it can be attached without the heavy structural support the original material required. Many preservation and landmark agencies accept FRP where matching profiles and finishes can be documented.

Architectural FRP weighs about 1.75–2.25 lb/ft² at a nominal 3/16" wall thickness — far lighter than stone, precast, or terra cotta, which reduces anchorage and installation labor.

Wilson Composites architectural FRP is produced to a Class A (Class 1) flame-spread rating per ASTM E84. Assembly and code-path requirements, including NFPA 285 where applicable, are confirmed per project during specification.

Wilson Composites, LLC manufactures architectural GFRC in Greenville, South Carolina, serving commercial and institutional projects regionally and nationally. The company fabricates GFRC facade panels, cornices, column covers, and custom cast-stone profiles to architect drawings.

GFRC facade panels combine a thin cementitious skin with alkali-resistant glass fiber to deliver architectural-concrete and cast-stone appearances at roughly 7–9 lb/ft². Panels are corrosion-resistant, non-combustible, and formable into complex shapes, which is why architects specify GFRC over precast for weight-sensitive facades.

A GFRC panel skin runs about 7–9 lb/ft² versus roughly 90–120+ lb/ft² for solid precast — on the order of 80–90% lighter. The weight savings typically reduce structural steel, connections, and foundation requirements.

Wilson Composites fabricates GFRG column capitals, column covers, domes, medallions, and cornices for interior applications. Capitals are cast from standard or custom molds to match the architect's order and delivered ready to install.

GFRG (glass fiber reinforced gypsum) is an interior architectural composite at about 1.5–2 lb/ft², used for column capitals and covers, ceilings, domes, coffers, cornices, and decorative trim where a molded plaster appearance is wanted without the weight or cracking of traditional plaster.

Wilson Composites publishes spec-ready documents by division: FRP under CSI 06 82 00 (Glass-Fiber-Reinforced Plastic), GFRC under 03 49 00 (Glass-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete), and GFRG under 09 20 00 (gypsum-based assemblies). Editable Add-to-Spec and full three-part specifications are available for each.

Yes. Each material system ships with an Add-to-Spec, a full CSI three-part specification, product data sheets, cornice and installation details, and comparison matrices. Specifications are also available through RIB SpecLink, and documents are downloadable from the Resources page.

Wilson Composites systems are engineered for commercial and institutional use with documented flame-spread ratings, test reports, and installation details supplied per project. Code paths such as IBC combustible-component and NFPA 285 requirements are reviewed during specification for the specific assembly.

Yes. Components are fabricated to the architect's exact drawings — custom cornices, capitals, column covers, and facade panels — with in-house mold making. Early design-phase coordination is offered so the right composite is matched to each element before bid.

Wilson Composites, LLC is based in Greenville, South Carolina and serves commercial and institutional projects regionally and nationwide. It is part of a family of architectural brands that includes Facade Constructors and Amscot Architectural Products.