Many people like the look of natural stone, and there’s a good reason for this: it’s beautiful. Stone is not only a classic look, but also one of the most durable materials available today.
Or is it?
GFRC is able to mimic the look of natural stone, and we’d argue there are many reasons that contractors and architects should strongly consider replacing their natural stone ideas with GFRC products, from the cost to the weather resistance to the long term durability. Let’s talk about it.
GFRC’s Advantages Over Natural Stone
It’s true that natural stone has been used in architecture for centuries, and that it is considered by many to one of the best materials a person can have for their property. But But many of the qualities that make it seem like the obvious choice – durability, strength, and weather resistance – do not always hold up under modern conditions. They were fine for the times, but they’re not something that can be universally used, and often come with drawbacks that make a competing material, like GFRC, more advantageous.
GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) is able to replicate the appearance of stone with far greater flexibility in application and performance.
Some of the reasons GFRC is often a better alternative include:
- Weight Reduction – Natural stone is extremely heavy, which increases the cost of transportation, handling, and installation. GFRC is significantly lighter while still offering strength and rigidity, making it easier to work with and reducing load requirements on the structure.
- Greater Design Flexibility – GFRC can be molded into nearly any shape or detail, including textures and finishes that match quarried stone. This makes it ideal for projects that require custom profiles, curves, or replicating ornate classical styles.
- Superior Weather Resistance – People think that stone is long lasting, but that is an entirely regional belief. Depending on the climate and the type of stone, stone is not immune to the effects of moisture, freeze/thaw cycles, or atmospheric pollutants. Many types of natural stone absorb water and degrade over time. GFRC, especially when sealed properly, offers more consistent performance and is less likely to crack or deteriorate.
- Faster Installation – The lighter weight of GFRC allows for faster positioning and fewer labor requirements. This can speed up project timelines, reduce scaffolding and support needs, and ultimately lower labor costs.
- Lower Cost – While certain types of stone can be cost-effective in some regions, many architectural-grade stones are expensive to source and install. GFRC typically offers a more affordable solution, especially for decorative elements, without compromising the visual outcome.
- Long-Term Durability – Properly manufactured GFRC is engineered to last for decades. Its internal glass fiber reinforcement improves tensile strength and impact resistance, which helps prevent cracking and weather-related failure over time.
And remember, GFRC can replicate the look of stone almost perfectly, so those that are more interested in stone’s design than its durability often find that GFRC is still a suitable replacement. This means that choosing GFRC over stone isn’t taking a step down in the design, but rather just another way to get the look of stone.
A Practical Alternative for Modern Builds
There will always be a place for natural stone in architecture. But for decorative façades, architectural detailing, and any application where cost, weight, or environmental performance are a concern, GFRC offers a high-performing, visually accurate, and reliable alternative. It allows architects and contractors to meet both aesthetic and structural requirements without some of the limitations that come with traditional stone.
If you’ve been interested in natural stone, or you’d like to learn more about our GFRC products, reach out to GC Products LLC today.