What Is Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete Cladding?
Glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) is an architectural cladding material made from Portland cement, aggregate, and alkali-resistant glass fibers. The glass fiber reinforcement allows GFRC panels to be manufactured in much thinner sections than conventional concrete while retaining high strength and impact resistance. The result is a lightweight architectural concrete facade material that can be formed into virtually any shape, texture, and color.
Exteriors Design LLC installs OKO Skin and Fibre C GFRC panels from Rieder on commercial projects throughout Portland, OR and the Pacific Northwest. These European-engineered panels represent the leading edge of architectural concrete cladding technology and are increasingly specified on premium mixed-use and institutional projects.
GFRC Installation Process
GFRC panels are installed on engineered aluminum subframe systems, similar to high-density fiber cement and ACM panel systems. Panel attachment is typically concealed with hidden clip systems or bolted connections through the panel's edge. Our crews work closely with the subframe engineer and panel manufacturer to ensure that panel tolerances, thermal movement, and seismic requirements are fully addressed in the installation system.
GFRC panels are heavy relative to fiber cement and metal panels — coordination with the general contractor for crane lifts and panel staging areas is part of our pre-installation planning process. Each panel is inspected for surface defects before installation and rejected panels are returned to the manufacturer before they reach the building face.
Benefits of GFRC Cladding
- Architectural concrete aesthetic: The authentic look and texture of concrete at a fraction of the weight
- Design freedom: Can be cast in nearly any shape — flat, curved, textured, or custom profiled
- Lightweight: Typically 10-20 lbs/sf — 80% lighter than precast concrete — reducing structural load
- Durable: High strength, impact resistant, and impervious to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and UV exposure
- Fire resistant: Non-combustible — suitable for all construction types
- Color stability: Integral mineral pigments maintain color consistency over decades without painting
Ideal Applications
GFRC cladding is ideal for institutional buildings (universities, hospitals, government), high-rise commercial, premium mixed-use developments, and any project where the architect wants the gravitas of architectural concrete without the structural implications of full precast panels. Contact Exteriors Design at (503) 914-0200 or request an estimate.