FRP Grating Installation Guide

Confirm product and bearing direction

Molded and pultruded panels can have different load paths. Mark the bearing direction from the approved drawing and manufacturer data before cutting. Confirm support width, clear span, concentrated loads, resin system, surface type and environmental exposure.

• Do not infer capacity from panel depth alone.
• Do not rotate a directional panel to reduce waste without design approval.
• Confirm whether covered grating or stair treads require separate details.

Handle, store and position panels

Store panels flat, supported and protected from impact and construction debris. Use lifting methods appropriate to the panel size and site conditions. Place the panel on clean, continuous supports and maintain the clearances required by the manufacturer for fit and environmental movement.

Field cutting and penetrations

Use the cutting method and personal protective equipment specified by the manufacturer and site safety plan. Support the panel during cutting, avoid damaging adjacent bearing members, and seal cut surfaces with the approved resin system when the product instructions require it. Penetrations need sufficient surrounding structure and may require added support.

• Lay out all cuts before starting.
• Keep cut edges smooth and free from projections.
• Never assume an unsupported notch is acceptable because the panel feels rigid.

Attach and inspect

Use manufacturer-approved clips and the project fixing pattern. Tightening must restrain the panel without crushing or distorting the FRP. At handover, check seating, rocking, edge condition, clip engagement, clearances, openings and any surface damage caused by construction activity.