Cut Costs, Not Corners: A Better Façade Alternative

Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) emerged in the 1990s to meet specific performance needs in civil and industrial construction. Its distinguishing feature is a denser matrix than standard concrete, achieved through specialized manufacturing and curing techniques.

UHPC is typically produced using a casting process, allowing for a range of shapes, sizes, and textures. As its capabilities became recognized, UHPC found its way into façade construction, where panels often include additional glass fiber mesh within the cement matrix to enhance flexibility.

Glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) shares similarities with UHPC in its use of glass fibers for reinforcement, but it does not achieve the same dense matrix. Developed in the mid-1900s, GFRC incorporates glass fibers directly into the cement mix rather than relying on mesh. This composition allows GFRC to be produced using either casting or spray application methods, enabling flexibility in shaping and forming panels for architectural use.

Hi-strength cement rainscreen panels, an EQUITONE high-strength fiber cement, stand out within this category of façade materials due to its unique manufacturing process and performance characteristics. After the initial formation of thin cement and cellulose fiber layers on a forming drum, the material undergoes an extraordinary pressing stage, where 12,000 tons of force compress the panels to create an exceptionally dense, robust product. This process significantly increases durability and strength beyond that of standard fiber cement.

The panels are typically air-cured, but can also be autoclave-cured to achieve even greater consistency, strength, and the potential for unique textures. This combination of density, resilience, and design flexibility positions the material as a premium choice for architects and designers seeking both performance and aesthetic freedom in demanding façade applications.

While GFRC and UHPC are sometimes chosen for their strength and design flexibility, they can create challenges when it comes to cost, lead time, and installation complexity. EQUITONE hi-strength fiber cement offers a balanced solution—delivering similar performance and aesthetics with easier installation, reduced material weight, and lower total system costs. Here’s how the materials compare:

Explore EQUITONE Hi-Strength Cement Rainscreen Panels