Coastal environments are unforgiving – constant salt spray, high UV exposure, and extreme weather events quickly degrade traditional materials. When it comes to building boardwalks that last, fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP) stands out as the smart choice.
What is FRP and why does it outperform traditional materials?
FRP is a composite material made from reinforced fibres (usually glass) embedded in a polymer resin. It’s engineered for durability in aggressive conditions. Unlike timber or steel, FRP doesn’t rot, rust or splinter – and it requires almost no maintenance over time.
This makes it ideal for coastal boardwalks, where moisture, salt and sun accelerate deterioration in conventional structures.
FRP boardwalks: engineered for harsh coastal zones
FRP boardwalks use a combination of FRP structural profiles and FRP grating panels to deliver a strong, stable, and slip-resistant platform. Because FRP is lightweight, installation is easier and faster – even in remote or difficult-to-access locations.
Key benefits for coastal use:
- Non-corrosive and impervious to saltwater.
- UV stable and resistant to fading.
- Non-slip walking surface (even when wet).
- Minimal maintenance, no repainting or sealing.
FRP grating and grate panels for safety and strength
Grating is the surface layer of most FRP boardwalks. FRP grating panels are engineered for high loads and anti-slip performance.
They’re available in open mesh or solid top options, depending on whether drainage, visibility or environmental protection is needed. These surfaces maintain integrity even with heavy foot traffic or equipment movement.
Tailored for terrain: Custom FRP solutions
No two sites are the same – especially in coastal areas. Uneven ground, shifting sand, tidal movement and erosion all require flexible design.
That’s where custom FRP solutions come in. PermaStruct® offers bespoke fabrication using pultruded FRP profiles, enabling:
- Variable span lengths.
- Curved or sloped sections.
- Integrated handrails, edge protection and signage.
Fire resistant FRP solutions in coastal bushland zones
If your boardwalk runs through bushland near the coast, fire safety is a real concern. PermaStruct®’s fire resistant FRP solutions are ideal for BAL-rated zones and infrastructure adjacent to combustible vegetation.
Unlike timber, FRP won’t ignite easily or contribute to fire spread. It’s tested for compliance with relevant bushfire safety standards in Australia.
The role of composite fibre technologies in marine design
Behind all these advantages are advances in composite fibre technologies. Pultrusion allows FRP to be formed into precise, high-strength structural components without adding bulk.
This innovation supports lighter footbridges, cantilevered decks and modular designs that reduce install time and lifetime cost.
Alternative, Clever FRP solutions
In coastal zones, you only want to build once. With FRP, you can create resilient, low-maintenance walkways that outperform steel, timber and concrete alternatives – year after year.
Get in touch to speak to a specialist today.