Short answer is: yes.
If you have any additional questions, reach out to GC Products LLC Today.
For those looking for a longer answer, let’s continue:
Glass Fiber Reinforced Gypsum (GFRG) is widely used in interior architectural design for elements such as columns, ceiling details, wall panels, and decorative trims.
One of the benefits of GFRG is that it can be manufactured with a high degree of surface smoothness and precision, which often reduces the amount of finishing required after installation. Still, while GFRG can be installed as-is in certain settings, many – if not most – situations will require, if not benefit from, additional finishing is required for aesthetic, protective, or functional reasons.
When GFRG Can Be Left Unfinished, Theoretically
In its raw state, GFRG has a smooth, white appearance that closely resembles standard interior gypsum. For projects where the goal is a simple, uniform white surface—such as modern ceilings or decorative features in commercial buildings—GFRG can often be installed with minimal surface preparation.
You may not need to add a separate finish if:
- The GFRG is placed in a non-visible or low-traffic location where aesthetics are not a concern.
- The natural white appearance is desired and aligns with the surrounding finishes.
- The product was manufactured with high surface quality that meets the project’s visual and textural standards.
That said, even in these cases, joints and seams between panels typically require some degree of patching and sanding to create a continuous surface, and then there is the matter of cleaning and maintenance, which we’ll explain below.
Reasons to Apply a Finish to GFRG
In most architectural applications, GFRG is finished to match other materials or to meet specific design requirements. The type of finish can range from simple primer and paint to more complex faux treatments that simulate stone, wood, or metal.
There are several reasons why finishing GFRG may be necessary:
- Color Matching – To match the surrounding architecture, GFRG often needs to be painted or tinted.
- Surface Uniformity – Finishes help hide joint lines, fasteners, or minor inconsistencies in texture.
- Durability – In high-touch areas, finishes can offer a layer of protection against scuffs or minor impacts.
- Design Specifications – Most architectural drawings include a finishing specification, especially for ornamental components intended to resemble other materials.
- Cleaning – GFRG is not water proof, so heavier stains can be difficult to remove. But if the GFRG product is finished, it can be wiped more easily, painted over, or otherwise cleaned in a way that is more difficult with raw GFRG.
We always recommend *at least* priming the surface before applying any paint or decorative finish to improve adhesion and long-term appearance.
Finish Compatibility Considerations
Before applying any finish to GFRG, it’s important to ensure that the chosen product is compatible with gypsum-based materials. Water-based primers and paints are most commonly used, but any finish – particularly those involving solvents or reactive components – should be reviewed for chemical compatibility. We are happy to help you understand your products more if this is your first time working with GFRG.
Specialty finishes, such as those used to simulate stone or plaster textures, may require multiple layers and professional application. These are often used in hospitality, religious, or civic buildings where visual impact is a key design element.
Finishing Depends on the Project
GFRG offers considerable flexibility when it comes to finishing. In some projects, a basic primer and paint may be enough. In others, a decorative or protective coating may be specified from the outset. But in all cases, GFRG is something you typically want to at least finish in some way to make it easier to clean and less prone to staining, dirt, and more.
Get started today with GC Products LLC.