Many facilities and industries across North America invest in wall cladding to protect interior walls. Wall cladding is designed to protect interior features and occupants from harm. Fiber reinforced panels (FRP) are a very common wall cladding solution. Its strength, weight, and lifespan make it a highly competitive option for wall protection across various industries. However, there are other material options that bring all of the same benefits while eliminating some of the common drawbacks. Performance plastic wall cladding options, such as PALCLAD or LEXAN™ CLINIWALL™, are high-performance alternatives the bring more features to your work environment.
Pros & Cons of Fiber Reinforced Panels
Benefits of FRP
- Longevity: Certain types of fiber reinforced panels can last for decades, usually around 20-30 years.
- Lightweight: Most FRP wall cladding solutions are relatively light, making them easy to install and won’t cause wall damage.
- Corrosion resistance: Many wall cladding options are chemically resistant enough to not corrode over time.
Drawbacks of FRP
- Limited cleaning options: Despite the chemical resistance many FRP options have, many harsh cleaning agents are still too harsh. Some cleaning agents could damage or weaken the material. Safe cleaning options are often limited to soap/water.
- Poor temperature tolerances: Over time, high temperatures could lead to a severe reduction in strength and reliability.
- Recycling difficulties: Due to how they are manufactured, FRPs tend to be very difficult to recycle. Some types can’t be recycled at all.
FRP Wall Cladding Alternatives
Polymershapes stocks several alternative wall cladding material options. Two long-lasting, high-performance options are PALCLAD and LEXAN™ CLINIWALL™. The former is made from PVC, while the latter is made from virtually unbreakable polycarbonate. Both materials come with features that exceed FRP capabilities. There are also different grades of each available for specific applications.
PALCLAD by Palram
PALCLAD is a PVC wall cladding material developed by Palram. It is a plastic alternative to FRP made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). It is equipped with an array of features that make it a worthwhile investment. PVC panels are stronger and more durable than FRP. They are also chemically resistant, meaning significantly lower contamination risk.
Why Invest in PALCLAD?
- Class A Fire Rated: Most FRP options are only fire-rated up to Class C. PALCLAD is Class A fire rated. This means less fire spread in case of emergencies, improving safety.
- Easy Installation: Installation is as simple as cutting the material into the right shape and gluing it to the wall.
- Durable: PALCLAD wall cladding material is stronger and more durable overall compared to FRP.
- USDA/FDA Compliance: PALCLAD’s chemical resistance and hygienic qualities make it compliant to various USDA and FDA guidelines.
- Easy Cleaning: Due to its chemical resistance, PALCLAD PVC wall cladding can be cleaned with a variety of strong cleaning agents without sustaining damage.
LEXAN™ CLINIWALL™ by SABIC
LEXAN™ CLINIWALL™ sheets are polycarbonate wall panels designed for high-performance protection. It is a long-lasting interior wall cladding solution commonly used in public facilities and hospitals. CLINIWALL™ features incredibly high strength, capable of absorbing blunt force and chemical exposure without taking damage. Because it is made from polycarbonate, there are many grades available to address specific needs.
Why Invest in LEXAN™ CLINIWALL™?
- Environmentally friendly: CLINIWALL™ is a non-chlorinated, non-brominated material. Not only is this material better for the environment, but it also doesn’t contain toxic flame retardants.
- Class A Fire Rated: Just like PALCLAD, CLINIWALL™ is Class A fire rated.
- Recyclable: Polycarbonate can be grinded down and re-extruded after use, making it a very recyclable material.
- Easy cleaning: CLINIWALL™ features extreme chemical resistance and can withstand the harsh cleaning methods that many sanitary environments require.
- Low absorption: CLINIWALL™ polycarbonate wall cladding features low absorption and high moisture resistance, improving sanitation.
- Durability: Polycarbonate is an inherently scratch resistant, virtually unbreakable material, making it one of the strongest wall cladding materials available.
Facilities that Benefit from PALCLAD or LEXAN™ CLINIWALL™
- Healthcare/Medical: Hospitals, clinics, sterile rooms, laboratories
- Animal care: Animal confinement, kennels, veterinary clinics
- Personal hygiene facilities: Public restrooms, locker rooms
- Food & Beverage: Commercial kitchens, cafeterias, food processing plants
- Automotive: Car wash, wash down areas
- Commercial Business: Offices, waiting rooms
- Chemical facilities: Corrosive environments
- Specialized HVAC applications
- Heavy traffic/crowded spaces (hallways, lobbies)
Invest in High-Performance FRP Alternatives with Polymershapes
Wall cladding is an essential feature in many industries. Many facilities work in high-risk environments, and protective features are crucial in maintaining a safe working environment. FRP panels are an incredibly common wall cladding solution in various facilities. However, they may not have all of the features needed to provide complete protection.
Polymershapes has a wide selection of fire-resistant, anti-bacteria, and hygienic wall cladding options. Both PALCLAD and LEXAN™ CLINIWALL™ have grades that are and specifically designed to provide decades of protection. To learn more about how both brands are ideal alternatives to FRP panels, contact a Polymershapes expert today.
