Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) has become a trusted material in sectors such as transport, construction, energy and marine engineering. It’s lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant — a perfect alternative to steel in harsh environments. Yet despite decades of proven performance, many contractors remain hesitant to specify or install it.
This hesitation doesn’t come from doubts about GRP’s quality — the material already meets high industry standards like BS EN 13706, BS EN 4592, and BS 476 Part 7 for fire performance. The real issue lies in experience. Contractors who have spent years working with steel or timber often have limited on-site exposure to GRP. Without familiarity, even a simple installation can seem complex.
Understanding the Knowledge Challenge
Traditional trade training and apprenticeships have long focused on materials such as steel, concrete, and timber. GRP rarely features in standard construction courses, meaning most site teams have never received formal instruction on how to handle or install it.
That lack of training often leads to:
- Misunderstandings about how GRP is cut, fixed, or supported.
- Overly cautious planning that slows down projects.
- Missed opportunities to exploit GRP’s lightweight and low-maintenance advantages.
In short, the barrier isn’t technical — it’s educational. Contractors need the confidence and knowledge to approach GRP the same way they would any familiar material.
Turning Familiarity into Confidence
The most effective way to overcome uncertainty is through hands-on training and early engagement.
Short, structured sessions — sometimes no more than an hour — can make a significant difference.
During these sessions, teams learn that:
- GRP is easily handled by two people without the need for machinery.
- Cutting and drilling can be carried out using standard hand or power tools — no welding, no hot works.
- Panels can be mechanically fixed or bonded in place, removing the need for coating or galvanising.
- Anti-slip finishes and surface protection can be incorporated during the manufacturing process.
Projects that introduce simple toolbox talks or demonstrations before installation often see faster completion times, fewer on-site errors, and reduced safety risks.
Support Through Specification
Contractors don’t just need training — they need accessible technical guidance.
When load tables, fixing charts and installation diagrams are clearly available, site teams can make quick, confident decisions without waiting for design approvals.
Good specification support turns GRP into a practical choice rather than a specialist material.
When contractors understand exactly how components fit together and which standards apply, they can deliver clean, compliant installations with reduced downtime.
Raising Standards Through Education
Knowledge-sharing benefits the entire construction chain. By improving GRP literacy among contractors, the industry gains:
- Faster installation times with fewer costly delays.
- Safer working environments thanks to lighter materials and no hot works.
- Improved workmanship and product longevity.
- Greater confidence to specify GRP in future projects, not just specialist ones.
With awareness and training, GRP stops being an alternative — it becomes the go-to choice for efficient, sustainable construction.
Building the Future with GRP Grating Systems
At GRP Grating Systems, we’re helping to close the knowledge gap by supporting contractors with training, site briefings, and easy-to-follow documentation.
From fabrication tips to load data and fixing guides, we make it simple for teams to work safely and effectively with GRP.
Whether you’re new to the material or looking to expand its use across your projects, our technical specialists are here to help every step of the way.