When preparing to design or renovate a commercial space, be it a kitchen, cleanroom, laboratory, or industrial facility, the wall panel materials selected can be an important consideration. Not only does wall paneling material contribute to the overall design experience of your facility, but it can also affect safety, longevity, sanitation, and maintenance.
The following are the top items to consider when choosing commercial wall panel materials:
1. Durability
Commercial environments do not typically have the luxury of reduced or gentle use; therefore, wall paneling must withstand the rigors of constant use, continuous or heavy cleaning, and exposure to moisture and chemicals. Wall panel materials such as stainless steel panels and FRP panels (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) are designed to keep out dents, scratches, and impact so they can be relied upon for long-term service.
2. Sanitation and Easy Maintenance
Hygiene is not an option in the food processing, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare services industries. Wall paneling needs to have smooth and non-porous surfaces to keep molds, bacteria, and stains away. FRP wall paneling is popular in commercial kitchens, with its smooth-seamless finish that can withstand wiping and cleaning regularly. Stainless steel wall paneling also offers really good sanitation for kitchens and labs.
3. Fire Resistance
Fire safety is a key consideration in the commercial space. Panels that are tested with fire resistance ratings will make sure that you are following safety codes and help to eliminate any potential hazards. FRP and stainless steel walls both feature fire-resistant properties. This is an important feature to ensure your facility's safety and the protection of your assets in case of a fire.
4. Moisture & Chemical Resistance
Commercial kitchens or industrial facilities can put walls into a harsh environment subject to constant high humidity, water splashes, and tough cleaning agents. The properties of FRP panels are best in resistance to moisture and chemicals, while stainless steel wall panels provide the ultimate in corrosion resistance.
5. Ease of Installation & Versatility
The wall panel material selected should be easy to install and versatile across the environment. For example, FRP panels are lightweight and are easy to install over an existing wall in a short period of time. Stainless steel panels provide the best versatility in a modern, high-use space.
6. Aesthetic Appeal
Commercial spaces are not only required to function well, but they should also look professional. Stainless steel panels can provide a polished, modern finish, while FRP panels can be fabricated in various colours and textures to support the aesthetics of the facility.
7. Cost-Effectiveness & Lifespan
The cost of high-performance wall panels may appear expensive, but they are an investment that can save money in the long run when you consider the costs of repair, replacement, and maintenance. Both FRP and stainless-steel panels provide excellent ROI for commercial projects.
Final Thoughts
When selecting wall panel materials for your project, make sure to focus on durability, hygiene, fire resistance, and ease of maintenance. At Avanta, we provide FRP panels and stainless steel panels that are designed and built to cope with rigorous commercial operations. Our products ensure safety, compliance, and performance. Explore them today.