When considering wall and ceiling coverings for commercial buildings in Canada, be it restaurants, hospitals, processing warehouses or plants, often there are only two choices: fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) panels and stainless steel panels. Both have been accepted for durability and hygiene, but which is the right choice for your project? The truth is, it depends entirely on you and your project. Let's explore the price, return on investment (ROI) and how to decide.
What are the initial costs?
Generally, FRP has lower initial costs, being priced between $2.25–4.55 per sqft for materials, plus $4–5per sq.ft.. in installation costs.
Conversely, stainless steel is considered a premium choice, costing $4-8 sqft for materials, with installation prices ranging between $6-8 sqft.
The bottom line is if budget is a consideration and you need continue to open the space with minimum coverage, FRP provides the best value for your initial investment.
Endurance & Upkeep
FRP panels are light weight, easy to install, and require minimal servicing. These panels form a barrier to mold, mildew, and corrosion meaning they work well in humid and/or aggressive environments.
Stainless steel panels are the gold standard for longevity and hygienics. They can last 30+ years, stand up to extreme cleaning and are a must-have in the strictest health inspected environments.
In practice: FRPs can save 30-40% annually on maintenance costs, compared to conventional wall coverings, and can provide ROI in as few as 2-3 years. Stainless steel performs the best in ultra-high-traffic spaces or any facility driven by regulations.
Choosing What’s Best for You
|
FRP Panels |
Stainless Steel Panels |
|
|
Best for |
Budgets, Quick installation, Moderate to High durability |
Top-tier hygiene, Ultra-long life, Heavy-duty |
|
Used In |
Commercial kitchens, Healthcare, Retail, Warehouses |
Hospitals, Industrieal kitchens, Labs, Food plants with strict auxiliary codes |
|
Lifespan |
20+ years |
30+ years |
|
ROI |
Fastest ROI for most businesses |
Slow, unless hygiene/regulations are the motivator |
If economy and speed are the top priorities - FRP is the product for you.
If not, and you cannot compromise on durability and compliance, stainless steel is the right thing to invest in.
Final Considerations
FRP and stainless steel panels are both justifiable options, honestly, it comes down to what is important at your current production facility, compliance requirements, and budgets. Get in touch with us to assess the specifics of your project, and we will help you specify a panel solution that will provide you with the best value for your investment.
Do you want personal assistance? Please contact our experts for guidance in making the right product investment for your facility!