When it comes to installing wall panels for shower walls, we try to choose something special. Because shower walls get wet always. So, shower walls need to be water-resistant and strong. Moreover, these walls should be different than normal walls in your houses.
That’s why you might be confused about whether you can use FRP panels for shower walls or not. Well, you have to know details about FRP panels’ properties.
Moreover, you should decide on FRP panels on whether they can be appropriate in the moisture-containing environment like shower walls.
What is a FRP panel? Is FRP vinyl?
FRP or Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic is one type of panel that is made of plastics. Generally, Fiberglass is reinforced into resin plastic to make these composite panels. The main purpose of making this kind of composite is to create a stronger and water-resistant plastic.
Moreover, FRP panels have superior properties to normal plastics. For their excellent properties, you can use them on different surfaces. You can use FRP panels on walls and ceilings. Moreover, you can install them over drywall, wood, concrete, and other surfaces.
Many people think that FRP panels are the same as vinyl panels. But they are different from each other. Because vinyl is made of one material whereas FRP panels are composite materials. That means FRP panels are made of two different materials.
So, FRP panels have some different properties than vinyl. FRP panels get both the properties of ceramic and polymer in them. So, FRP is not the same as a vinyl panel.
Can you use frp panels for shower walls?
You can use FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) panels for shower walls. Because FRP panels are water-resistant. These panels have both the properties of plastic and ceramic. So, they are also pretty strong material. Moreover, FRP panels are cost-effective. So, many people use these for shower wall.
It is typical to use Fiberglass panels for shower walls for their exceptional features. For example, when we use a strong material, we think that the material would be heavy. But FRP panels are tough and lightweight. That’s why they are perfect to use on shower walls.
Moreover, one of the main features of FRP panels is durability. These panels are more durable than other conventional shower wall panels. Besides, another excellent feature of FRP panels is non-corrosive. These panels don’t decay or corrode quickly.
But the main feature that makes the FRP panels best as shower panels is their water resistivity. These panels work like a shield when coming close to moisture or water. So, FRP panels have been famous for using in the shower walls.
FRP panels are generally laminates that have plastic resin materials. These materials keep the panels waterproof. So, if you want to use FRP panels for the shower wall, it would be a wise decision.
When we install wall panels for the shower wall, we expect the panels should be durable, water-resistant, strong, and non-corrosive.
FRP panels have all these qualities. Sometimes, their qualities are better than other conventional materials. So, you can use FRP panels on shower walls without hesitation.
Is FRP wall panel waterproof? Is FRP moisture resistant?
Yes, the FRP wall panel is waterproof. Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic panels are manufactured especially for being durable and water-resistant. That’s why these panels are famous for using in the shower walls.
Generally, ceramics and plastics decay slowly than metals when coming close to water or moisture. So, FRP panels are made with ceramic and plastic to make a superior composite.
This composite is made with laminates. That means the composite is laminated with resin that keeps the panel away from water.
Moreover, FRP panels are moisture resistant. These panels are protected when coming close to any fluid or moisture. So, FRP is moisture-resistant. If you are planning to install a water and moisture-resistant material in your bathroom, you can install FRP panels.
4 reasons why you can use FRP panel on shower wall
You might know that the FRP panel is perfect to use on the shower wall. But you might don’t know the reasons behind it. So, let’s see why you can use the FRP panel on the shower wall.
Waterproof:
One of the best qualities of FRP panels is their water resistivity. Generally, when we install wall panels in the bathroom or shower walls, we look for water resistivity in the material.
Water resistivity will keep the panels durable for a long time. Moreover, it will not make the shower walls generate mold and mildew.
Durable:
Another expected quality of shower walls is durability. FRP panels have enough durability that makes the panels perfect to use on shower walls. Generally, these panels are moisture-resistant that makes them more durable.
Otherwise, water and moisture content decrease the material’s durability. So, FRP panels are super durable.
Non-corrosive:
FRP panels are also non-corrosive. Generally, if we use metals or other materials on shower walls they will get corroded soon.
Because corrosivity might be increased when it comes close to water or moisture. But these panels are waterproof and that’s why don’t corrode easily.
Cheap:
When we install panels in the shower walls, we think about something cost-effective. FRP panels are cheaper than other wall panels. So, you can use them for installing in the shower walls.
How do you install FRP on shower walls?
When you get to know about the benefits of installing FRP panels on shower walls, you might want to install them on your shower walls. But installing them in an appropriate way is essential. So, let’s see how you can install FRP panels on your shower walls.
Make sure the walls are dry:
Check the walls whether they are dry or not before installing FRP panels. Make sure that the walls are clean and mold-free.
Then you should also check for nails and bumps on the wall and solve them before installing the panels.
Measure the panel:
Then you have to measure the FRP panels according to the size of your shower walls. You should keep ¼ inch allowance to the top and bottom parts of the panels.
You have to keep allowance because these panels are supposed to expand in the moisture content.
Apply adhesive:
Then you have to apply the adhesive material to the FRP panels. Try to apply adhesive evenly on the panels.
Then press the FRP panel on the shower wall firmly. You have to use a laminate roller to press the panels so that the excess air can come out from the FRP and wall surfaces.
Apply the panels:
Then place all the FRP panels to the walls gradually. After that, you have to fix the divider rails into place. Then you can caulk the area around the panels. Ensure that all the panels are sealed and the finishing is smooth after installation.
Let it dry:
Finally, let the wall dry well before using the shower walls. After drying the walls properly, you can use the shower.
What is better than FRP?
Generally, FRP is better to use on shower walls. But sometimes, PVC panels are better than FRP. Because PVC panels pose better works in some aspects. For example, PVC is one of the recent inventions. So, PVC is technologically more stable than FRP.
Moreover, PVC is also water-resistant and durable. So, you can easily use PVC instead of FRP. Another better option can be panels that are made with Long Fiber Injection (LFI) process.
Generally, LFI follows the same process as FRP but LFI uses polyurethane-based plastic instead of polyester-based plastic.
Besides, LFI is lighter than FRP that makes LFI more popular nowadays. LFI is also cheaper than FRP. So, you can use LFI for different purposes instead of FRP.
Does FRP go over drywall?
Yes, FRP goes over drywall. Generally, Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic or FRP is suitable to use on most walls. For example, you can use FRP panels for different purposes on different surfaces.
Even you can directly install FRP panels over drywall. You just have to apply adhesive material to the panels and stick the panels on the drywall. Then if you pressurize the panels with laminate rollers, the FRP panels will attach properly.
So, FRP panels will go over drywall so well. But make sure you allow the drywall to dry properly. Otherwise, the bonding of adhesive might not be sufficient. So, you can install FRP panels over drywall directly.
Final Thoughts
You can directly use FRP panels for shower walls. FRP panels are famous for installing to the shower walls because FRP panels are moisture-resistant and durable. Moreover, these panels prevent mold & mildew build-up. Besides, these panels don’t corrode easily and easy to install.