GRC Design FreedomGRC panels offer the architect freedom of design. A wide range of customized colors, textures, shapes and designs are able to be produced.Since the cladding panels are made to order,the pieces are designed and cast to meet the requirements of individual projects and the designer's vision. Panel Finishes and Facings A wide range of cladding panel colors and textures are available. GRC cladding finish options include: • cast stone or limestone • smooth concrete • exposed aggregate • form liners • wood grain texture • terra cotta glazes • brick or stone • other textures Panels may also include two or more textures and finishes on a single panel. Cast in colors are obtained with selected cements and aggregates or with mineral pigments. Cladding panels may also be painted. Panel Shapes and Sizes GRC is an extremely moldable material and this allows complex shapes to be formed. Freeform curves, complex cornices and intricate details can be incorporated into the panels. Panels can include reveals, window sills, copings, soffits and special shapes. Panel sizes are usually limited by transportation constraints. By using wide load or low trailers, larger panels can be transported. These can allow 1 storyhigh panels to be delivered vertically. Thinner and Lighter Weight Panel Advantages • The thinner walls with GRC cladding panels. Can increase usable floor space for a given building “footprint”. This can increase revenue. • The thinner cladding allows more room for insulation for a more efficient building. • Since they use less material they reduce the environmental impact. According to a government sponsored study, GRC reduced environmental impact by over 40% when compared to precast concrete panels. • The lighter GRC cladding reduces the load on the buildings structure. This can save an enormous amount on foundations, slabs,structural steel and concrete. • Simplified installation and attachment details with the light weight panels can speed up the cladding erection. • Reduced transportation costs. |