History of GFRC

The Gonzales County courthouse features many architectural fiberglass components from Stromberg.

GFRC: A Brief History

GFRC, also known as glass fiber reinforced concrete, is a construction material that is becoming more commonly used for a wide range of restoration and construction projects because of its versatility, strength, and durability not to mention its beauty with the look and feel of everything from natural stone and terra cotta to architectural precast concrete and wood. This blog provides an overview of the history of GFRC and how Stromberg Architecture has been a pioneer in the use of GFRC

The Timeline for GFRC

The concept behind GFRC actually originated in Russia during the 1940s where researchers were looking for a way to create a material for their buildings and structures that were primarily all concrete blocks. However, the use of concrete was difficult due to the weight. Many trials were made before the right combination of glass fibers and concrete was discovered. However, it still was not quite right.

In the 1970s, the construction material concept travelled from the UK to the U.S. where the research done by the British was then enhanced by George Halliday. By the late 1970s, the material became more popular in the U.S. because of its benefits.

During this time, Stromberg Architectural became involved in the design and production of the material to determine how it could help the architectural products industry as well as its customers, including contractors and architects. With the assistance of many technical experts who experimented and studied GFRC, Stromberg Architectural was able to develop a unique method for detailing, manufacturing and installing a wide range of GFRC products over the last 30 years.

Now, GFRC has been accepted as a licensed material by the Congress of American Building Officials as well as the International Congress of Building Officials. It is a material that will continue to offer options and applications as more research is conducted on refining GFRC for residential and commercial structures.

GFRC Applications

Today, Stromberg Architectural has been able to work on over 1,400 projects, helping to solve a number of design and construction projects for a number of applications. The light, weather-resistant, fire retardant and strong material can be used in manufacturing all types of architectural products, including bollards, urns, tables, ecclesiastical furniture, patio furniture, columns, window surrounds, planters and wall panels.

Gaining a reputation for innovative GFRC products, Stromberg Architectural has also pioneered the use of GFRC for some unique applications. These applications include storage tanks, cable ducts, sunscreens, marine structures, floating pontoons, security and noise barriers, sandwich panels and bus shelters.

Free Estimates for GFRC Construction and Restoration Projects

Whether you are looking for furniture or an architectural product designed for a restoration project or a new structure, Stromberg Architectural can help you find the right solution that fits your project, timeframe, and budget. As the world leader in GFRC, you can see many examples of our successfully completed projects online, or you can contact us for more information or a free estimate, contact us through our online contact form or by phone at 903-454-0904.