Composites elements: FRP inner wall finish in a swimming pool area.
Why composites: the feature wall in the pool area, located at the top of a high-rise in Miami, required composites due to weight considerations. Composites were ideal for achieving complex shapes and handling the corrosive environment near a pool.
The swimming pool formwork could only remain unsupported when made from composites, enhancing the visual appeal.
Cost
Producing the parts from composites simplified installation, reduced lifting gear requirements, saving time, and provided transport benefits—all contributing to a cost advantage over concrete.
Strength
Self-supporting elements and limited support structures are needed. The same design was simply not possible with traditional materials.
Durability
Maintenance-free in a relatively corrosive environment. Metal elements would have been prone to regular maintenance needs.
Maintenance
The only realistic maintenance-free option.
LCA/Environmental Impact
Lightweight, easy to transport, and simple to install, the composite parts are likely to outlive the building.