Why more industries are turning to composite fibre technologies
Whether you’re building for a coastal boardwalk, an industrial plant, or a local council walkway, traditional materials like timber and steel often struggle to keep up with Australia’s harsh conditions. That’s where custom FRP solutions come in.
Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) offers a lightweight, high-strength alternative that’s designed to last. And when it’s tailored to your project’s unique demands? Even better. At PermaStruct®, we specialise in composite fibre technologies that push boundaries and outperform expectations.
Why custom FRP solutions suit Australian conditions
Custom FRP solutions are increasingly specified across Australia because they are engineered to perform in environments where timber and steel degrade quickly. High UV exposure, salt air, moisture, and chemicals all accelerate wear in traditional materials. FRP, by contrast, is designed to withstand these conditions with minimal impact on structural performance.
By choosing custom FRP solutions, asset owners can specify materials that suit exact site conditions, load requirements, and compliance needs, rather than compromising with generic, off-the-shelf products.
What makes FRP different from other materials?
FRP is a composite material made by combining a polymer resin with fibreglass reinforcements. The result? A material that’s:
- Tough but lightweight.
- Corrosion and rot resistant.
- Non-conductive and non-slip.
- UV stable and fire resistant.
Unlike traditional materials, FRP structures don’t degrade in coastal or chemical environments – making them a no-brainer for industries where performance matters.
FRP also has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, allowing for easier transport, faster installation, and reduced structural load on supporting infrastructure.
How custom FRP solutions outperform timber and steel
When FRP is engineered as a custom solution, it can be tailored to outperform timber and steel across multiple performance criteria. Custom FRP solutions do not rust, splinter, or require protective coatings, which significantly reduces ongoing maintenance requirements.
This makes custom FRP solutions particularly valuable for infrastructure that is difficult to access, exposed to corrosive elements, or required to remain operational with minimal downtime.
The practical perks of custom FRP solutions
Let’s break down why more Aussie businesses are making the switch to custom FRP solutions:
Longevity
From FRP decking in marinas to FRP handrails in public spaces, FRP materials are made to handle high traffic and harsh environments. They don’t rust, rot or splinter, which means you get years of performance without the constant patch-ups.
What longevity looks like in practice
Custom FRP solutions are commonly specified with design lives of 25 to 50 years, even in salt spray or chemically aggressive environments. This is particularly valuable for assets like boardwalks, wharves, and elevated walkways where replacement is disruptive and costly.
Set and forget
If you’re managing maintenance budgets, solutions such as FRP boardwalks and FRP walkways save you serious time and money. No repainting. No sanding. No corrosion. Just solid, dependable structures that stay sharp.
Where the maintenance savings actually come from
Unlike steel, FRP does not require protective coatings, cathodic protection, or ongoing corrosion management. Unlike timber, it does not need sealing, staining, or regular inspections for rot and splintering. For asset owners managing multiple sites, custom FRP solutions dramatically reduce planned maintenance schedules and reactive repair call-outs.
Compliant and safe
Our fire resistant FRP solutions are regulation-ready, giving you full confidence in safety-critical environments. Whether you’re working with councils, mines, or ports, we help keep you compliant without the headaches.
Designed for compliance, not retrofitted
Custom FRP solutions can be engineered to meet specific slip resistance ratings, fire performance requirements, and load classifications from the outset. This reduces the risk of late-stage compliance issues and ensures infrastructure performs safely under real operating conditions.
Versatile across sectors
From trench covers and stair treads to FRP grates and screening, we create tailored solutions to fit your site, spec and design.
How versatility supports better project outcomes
Because custom FRP solutions can be manufactured in a wide range of profiles, colours, and surface finishes, they integrate easily with existing structures. This makes them suitable for both new builds and retrofit projects where dimensions, access constraints, or legacy materials would otherwise limit design options.
Where FRP really shines
Our custom FRP products are already making waves in sectors like:
- Marine and coastal: Where corrosion is a constant threat.
- Government and public infrastructure: Prioritising safety and compliance.
- Mining and industrial: Requiring durable, non-slip access systems.
- Utilities and energy: With exposure to chemicals and extreme conditions.
Explore some of our latest projects and see how we’ve helped solve complex design challenges with clever, compliant solutions.
Common applications for custom FRP solutions
Across the above sectors, custom FRP solutions are commonly used for walkways, platforms, handrails, grating systems, and access structures. Their predictable performance makes them a reliable choice for environments where safety and durability are critical.
Why partner with PermaStruct®?
We’re not just another FRP supplier. As part of Perma Composites, we bring a creator’s mindset to every build – blending originality, quality and vision.
From concept to installation, we work with architects, councils, engineers, and contractors to deliver smarter builds that hold their own.
Our process is collaborative and tailored, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We believe in engineering smarter solutions that help futureproof your assets and infrastructure.
Partnering with a specialist manufacturer ensures custom FRP solutions are designed with real-world conditions in mind. This collaborative approach reduces risk during installation and improves long-term performance.
Ready to talk FRP?
Let’s chat about how custom FRP solutions could work for your next project. From fire-resistant FRP grating to versatile FRP decking systems, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us to learn more about our FRP products.