Steel has long been the go-to choice for reinforced concrete. However, builders and designers are turning to fiberglass rebar for many applications. While both have their place in modern construction, there may be applications where one is better than the other. This post will look at fiberglass vs. steel rebar and the types of applications for each.
Fiberglass vs. Steel Rebar: Which Should You Choose?
Residential Construction
Many builders and designers choose steel for most residential projects for two reasons: steel is often cheaper and is what they’ve always used. However, fiberglass rebar offers several advantages for residential construction. Since fiberglass is lighter and easier to handle, it could shorten construction timelines and reduce labor costs. It is also great for most residential applications. From homes to swimming pools and retaining walls, fiberglass performs well.
High-Strength Applications
Both rebar options offer reliable strength, but they excel in different ways. Fiberglass has superior tensile strength and fatigue resistance, making it ideal for applications with repetitive stress. Steel rebar performs better for compressive strength, making it better for applications involving extreme loads. Fiberglass rebar works well for bridges and retaining walls, while steel’s compressive strength is more compatible with skyscrapers and dams.
Corrosive Environments
Various environments may expose the material to corrosion. It could be near a coast, a chemical plant, a water treatment facility, etc. Fiberglass is the superior choice when corrosion is a concern. It is naturally corrosion-resistant, so it can stand up better and have a longer life in these environments. Steel rebar is prone to rust and corrosion. That means the reinforcement could weaken over time. Builders apply coatings to steel rebars to reduce the risk of corrosion, but that’s an additional cost.
Applications Requiring Ductility
Ductile materials can bend, stretch, or deform without breaking. It may be necessary when the concrete faces shifting loads or extreme forces. Steel is highly ductile, meaning it can absorb forces without breaking. Construction teams can also bend steel onsite to fit specific applications. While strong, fiberglass lacks the ductility of steel. That means extreme forces may cause the rebar to rupture rather than bend.
When Conductivity is a Concern
Some construction projects might have concerns about grounding or electromagnetic interference. Since fiberglass is non-conductive, it can be the better choice for these applications. On the other hand, steel is conductive, meaning you could experience unintentional grounding or interference. That makes fiberglass rebar a good choice for structures that may house electrical infrastructure or places with sensitive equipment.
Prefabricated Elements
Lightweight materials are ideal for prefabricated construction. With lighter materials, the prefabricated pieces are cheaper and easier to transport. They’re also easier to move and install once on the job site. Fiberglass rebar is significantly lighter than steel. If you look at MST-BAR from SuperForm, it is 4x lighter than steel rebar. Fiberglass rebar is a better choice for many prefabricated elements at just a fraction of the weight.
Please note that you must consider several factors and accept tradeoffs when choosing the right rebar. Weigh the pros and cons of each and balance competing concerns. There could also be some applications where you could benefit from using both.
Are you interested in using fiberglass rebar for your next project? Click here to contact the SuperForm team. We’d be happy to discuss products like MST-BAR and ICFs. Reach out now to learn more.
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