CSI MasterFormat 03 49 00 • Live
GFRC Cladding Panels
Complete technical specifications for Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete exterior cladding panels. The fastest-growing architectural panel system — 75–80% lighter than traditional precast, unlimited design flexibility, non-combustible.
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Standards Reference
ASTM Standards & Industry References
GFRC cladding panels are governed by ASTM standards for fiber-reinforced concrete and the PCI MNL-128 industry practice guide. These documents define material composition, manufacturing process, testing protocols, and design criteria for engineered panel systems.
ASTM C947
Flexural Properties of Thin-Section Glass-Fiber Reinforced Concrete
Primary test method for GFRC panels. Measures flexural strength (modulus of rupture and limit of proportionality) of thin-section glass-fiber reinforced concrete test specimens. Required by all quality programs for architectural GFRC.
1,200 psi
Min. Flexural Strength (MOR)
3/4"–1.5"
Typical Face Thickness
ASTM C1116
Standard Specification for Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Governs the production and composition of fiber-reinforced concrete including GFRC. Defines glass fiber content requirements (typically 3–5% by weight), mix design, and quality control procedures for manufacturing.
3–5%
Glass Fiber Content by Weight
AR Glass
Alkali-Resistant Fiber Type
PCI MNL-128
Recommended Practice for Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete Panels
The definitive industry practice document from the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute. Covers panel design, anchorage systems, fabrication practices, tolerances, and quality assurance procedures for commercial GFRC production.
8–14
Lbs per Sq Ft
±1/8"
Dimensional Tolerance
Product Applications
Applications & Panel Configurations
GFRC cladding panels are specified for projects where weight, speed of installation, and design flexibility are priorities. The material enables complex three-dimensional geometry — reveals, shadows, and sculptural profiles — that would be cost-prohibitive in stone or traditional precast.
Commercial Facades
Commercial & Institutional Facades
GFRC panels are the dominant cladding system for mid- and high-rise commercial, office, healthcare, and education projects. Steel stud backup framing makes GFRC faster and less expensive to install than masonry, with a lighter load on the building structure.
- Panels up to 20 ft long × 8 ft wide on standard projects
- 8–14 lbs/sf weight vs. 75–125 lbs/sf for traditional precast
- Steel stud backup system — no additional structural framing required
- Concealed clip-and-rod anchorage for clean reveals
- Full elevation mock-ups standard before production
- Color uniformity across thousands of sq ft — batch-controlled
Renovation & Retrofit
Renovation & Retrofit Cladding
GFRC is the preferred cladding for renovation and curtain wall replacement projects. Its light weight eliminates the need for structural upgrades to existing framing. Panels attach directly to steel studs or existing backup without adding dead load to the building structure.
- Ideal for recladding projects where dead load is a constraint
- Custom profiles match existing building character or modernize
- Faster installation than masonry — reduced project duration
- No special foundations or supplemental structural steel required
- Seamless integration with new windows, curtain wall, and sealants
- ADA compliant accessible detailing at grade level panels
Custom Architectural
Custom Profiles & Sculptural Panels
GFRC's spray-up manufacturing process allows virtually unlimited three-dimensional form. Reveals, shadow lines, projections, chamfers, and complex curve geometry are all achievable at standard production rates. It is the only cladding system that delivers monolithic sculptural form at commercial scale.
- Complex 3D profiles achievable without premium tooling costs
- Radius and curved panels for cylindrical or free-form elevations
- Deep reveals and shadow boxes cast integrally — no secondary framing
- Simulated stone, brick, and textured finishes with photographic detail
- Residential high-end exterior, pools, water features, and site elements
- Color-matched across complex project scopes with matching trim
Performance Advantages of GFRC
GFRC combines the durability of concrete with the light weight and formability of a fiber-reinforced composite. Four properties drive its 6.1% annual market growth in architectural cladding.
75–80%
Weight Reduction vs Traditional Precast
300+
Freeze-Thaw Cycles (ASTM C666)
Non-Comb.
Fire Rating (ASTM E119 Non-Combustible)
50+
Year Service Life (Properly Installed)
Economic Comparison
GFRC vs. Competing Cladding Systems
GFRC delivers stone or precast aesthetics at significantly lower installed cost. The weight advantage reduces structural costs, and spray-up fabrication is faster than mold-casting traditional precast, shortening lead times on large-panel projects.
| Material | Typical Cost / SF | Lead Time | Weight (lbs/sf) | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ■ GFRC Cladding | $18 – $45 | 6 – 10 weeks | 8 – 14 | ASTM C947 / C1116 |
| ■ Traditional Precast | $35 – $85 | 8 – 14 weeks | 75 – 125 | ASTM C1194 |
| ■ Natural Granite | $55 – $120 | 12 – 20 weeks | 160 – 175 | ASTM C615 |
| ■ Natural Limestone | $50 – $110 | 12 – 20 weeks | 150 – 165 | ASTM C568 |
✓ GFRC cladding saves 30–50% vs. natural stone and 15–25% vs. traditional precast on comparable profiles, with faster lead times and lower structural loading costs.
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Material Selection Guide
Precast Concrete vs. Cast Stone vs. GFRC
Three material options for exterior cladding. GFRC is the standard choice for large-format panels and weight-sensitive applications; cast stone for detailed ornamental cladding; precast for structural panel systems.
| Criteria | Precast Concrete | Cast Stone (ASTM C1364) | GFRC (ASTM C947) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compressive Strength | 5,000 psi min. | 6,500 psi min. | Face mix: 4,000 psi; High flexural strength |
| Water Absorption | <8% (ASTM C642) | <6% (ASTM C642) | <10% face mix (ASTM C1185) |
| Freeze-Thaw | 300 cycles (ASTM C666) | 300 cycles (ASTM C666) | 300 cycles (ASTM C666) |
| Weight | 75–125 lbs/SF | 130–145 pcf (solid) | 8–14 lbs/SF (75–80% lighter) |
| Panel Size | Up to 8×16 ft | Smaller ornamental units | Up to 10×20 ft |
| Advantages | Structural; load-bearing | Natural stone detail; dense | Lightweight; large panels; design freedom |
| Limitations | Heavy; higher transport cost | Not suitable for large panels | Requires stainless steel flex anchor system |
| CSI Reference | Section 03 41 00 | Section 04 72 00 | Section 03 49 00 (primary) |
✓ GFRC follows ASTM C947, C1116, C1185 and PCI MNL-117, MNL-128. Tolerances: ±1/8" panel dimensions, ±1/4" in 10 feet. Stainless steel flex anchors required. Sealant per Section 07 92 00.
Finish & Color Options
Finishes & Color Palette
GFRC finishes range from smooth architectural to exposed aggregate and acid-etched textures. Standard colors match the most common natural stone references. Custom color matching to physical samples or architectural specifications is available at no premium for production runs.
Mesa Precast Can Color Match Your Specifications
Need a finish beyond the standard palette? Submit your project requirements, architectural drawings, or physical samples, and our team will develop a custom color match for your GFRC panel project. Aggregate selection also available for exposed aggregate finishes.
Portland
Portland
Neutral warm gray. Matches Indiana Limestone and Salem Limestone. Most popular finish for contemporary commercial facades.
Bucks County
Bucks County
Warm buff/tan. Coordinates with Dolomite and Georgia marble tones. Popular for institutional and campus projects.
Old World
Old World
Antique cream. Warm aged stone appearance for period renovation and traditional residential cladding applications.
Carbon
Carbon
Charcoal gray. Modern high-contrast facade finish. Used in contemporary office, retail, and high-end residential projects.
Specifier Resources
Downloadable Specification Language
Ready-to-use CSI MasterFormat specification language for Section 03 49 00 Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete Cladding Panels. Copy and paste directly into your project specifications. Three formats available for different spec-writing workflows.
Section 03 49 00 — Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete Cladding Panels
DIVISION 03 — CONCRETE
SECTION 03 49 00 — GLASS FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE CLADDING PANELS
PART 1 — GENERAL
1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS
A. Drawings and general provisions of the Contract, including General and Supplementary Conditions and Division 01 Specification Sections, apply to this Section.
1.2 SUMMARY
A. This Section includes:
1. Glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) exterior cladding panels
2. Steel stud backup frame systems integral to GFRC panels
3. Concealed clip-and-rod anchorage systems
4. Custom profile, reveal, and shadow-box configurations
B. Related Sections:
1. Section 05 40 00 — Cold-Formed Metal Framing (primary wall framing)
2. Section 07 21 00 — Thermal Insulation (continuous insulation at backup)
3. Section 07 92 00 — Joint Sealants (panel joints and perimeter sealants)
4. Section 09 29 00 — Gypsum Board (interior finish at backup framing)
1.3 REFERENCES
A. ASTM C947 — Standard Test Method for Flexural Properties of Thin-Section Glass-Fiber Reinforced Concrete
B. ASTM C1116 — Standard Specification for Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
C. ASTM E119 — Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction
D. ASTM C666 — Standard Test Method for Resistance of Concrete to Rapid Freezing and Thawing
E. PCI MNL-128 — Recommended Practice for Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete Panels
F. CSI MasterFormat 03 49 00 — Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete
1.4 SUBMITTALS
A. Product Data: Manufacturer's technical literature, material data sheets, and standard panel profiles.
B. Shop Drawings: Panel layout drawings, joint locations, anchorage details, section profiles, and panel identification system.
C. Samples: Submit minimum 12" x 12" sample of each finish color and texture specified.
D. Test Reports: Provide independent laboratory test data confirming ASTM C947 flexural strength (MOR minimum 1,200 psi) and freeze-thaw performance (ASTM C666, 300 cycles minimum, no visible deterioration).
E. Quality Assurance Documentation: Fabricator's experience record, plant quality program, and PCI MNL-128 compliance statement.
F. Mix Design: GFRC mix design, fiber content by weight, and water-cement ratio for approval.
1.5 QUALITY ASSURANCE
A. Fabricator: Minimum 10 years' experience in commercial GFRC panel production. Production facility with spray-up and/or premix GFRC manufacturing capability.
B. Testing: Independent laboratory testing per ASTM C947. Minimum MOR (modulus of rupture) of 1,200 psi and LOP (limit of proportionality) of 600 psi.
C. Mock-ups: Provide full-size mock-up panel(s) per the mock-up schedule shown on drawings. Mock-up shall be approved by architect before production begins. Mock-up may be incorporated into Work if acceptable.
D. Pre-installation Conference: Schedule pre-installation meeting with fabricator, installer, general contractor, and architect before panel delivery.
1.6 DELIVERY, STORAGE & HANDLING
A. Delivery: Deliver panels on padded transport racks or bundled frames. Label each panel with shop drawing number and location mark.
B. Storage: Store panels vertically on padded A-frames or horizontal on padded supports. Protect from physical damage, soiling, and standing water.
C. Handling: Use spreader bars for multi-point lifts. Do not lift panels from embedded anchors unless designed for direct pick.
PART 2 — PRODUCTS
2.1 MANUFACTURERS
A. Acceptable Manufacturer: Mesa Precast, Mesa, AZ — Contact: Jess Mason, 480-600-6776
1. Additional manufacturing locations: Texas, Pennsylvania
2. Representative: contact via archstoneglobal.polsia.app
B. Substitutions: Equal products by other certified manufacturers may be submitted 10 days prior to bid. Submittal shall include test data, project references of comparable scope, and a sample panel.
2.2 MATERIALS
A. GFRC Mix: Portland cement, silica sand (max aggregate size 3/8" or smaller per mix design), water, alkaline-resistant (AR) glass fibers, and polymer (typically acrylic) per PCI MNL-128 recommendations.
1. Glass Fiber: Alkali-resistant (AR) glass fiber, minimum 16 mm length, 3–5% by weight of cementitious content. AR glass to maintain minimum 95% fiber retention after 28-day accelerated aging.
2. Water-Cement Ratio: Maximum 0.45 for spray-up process; maximum 0.35 for premix.
3. Polymer: Acrylic polymer emulsion added per manufacturer's recommendation to improve durability and ductility.
B. Compressive Strength: Minimum 4,000 psi at 28 days.
C. Flexural Strength (ASTM C947): Minimum MOR 1,200 psi. Minimum LOP 600 psi.
D. Freeze-Thaw (ASTM C666): 300 cycles, no visible deterioration, no greater than 0.1% linear expansion.
E. Coloring: Inorganic iron oxide pigments, UV-stable, added to cement matrix. Color shall match approved samples throughout entire panel production run.
2.3 BACKUP FRAME
A. Steel Stud Frame: Integral galvanized steel stud backup frame attached to GFRC skin. Frame transfers panel loads to building structure. Stud size and spacing per structural engineer's review.
B. Frame-to-Skin Bond: Flex anchors (e.g., bonding pads) connect frame to GFRC skin to accommodate differential thermal movement without cracking.
C. Galvanization: All ferrous components in contact with GFRC skin shall be hot-dip galvanized per ASTM A123.
2.4 ANCHORAGE SYSTEM
A. Type: Concealed clip-and-threaded-rod system, or cast-in anchor with relief slot as shown on drawings.
B. Materials: Hot-dip galvanized steel or austenitic stainless steel (Type 304 minimum). No uncoated ferrous metal embedded in or directly attached to GFRC.
C. Movement: Anchorage to permit minimum +/- 3/4" in-plane movement and +/- 1/4" out-of-plane movement without restraint.
2.5 PANEL CONFIGURATIONS & TOLERANCES
A. Panel Size: Coordinate with shop drawings. Maximum panel size governed by fabricator's spray booth and transport limitations.
B. Face Thickness: 3/4" minimum at all face locations. Stiffening ribs or additional reinforcement at panel perimeter per PCI MNL-128.
C. Profiles: Flat, reveal, shadow-box, and custom three-dimensional profiles per drawings. Return all exposed edges.
D. Tolerances (PCI MNL-128):
1. Overall length/width: +/- 1/8"
2. Flatness (bow): L/500 or 1/4" maximum, whichever is smaller
3. Thickness: +/- 1/16" at face
4. Squareness (diagonal): 3/16" maximum
5. Location of anchors: +/- 1/4"
2.6 FINISHES
A. Standard Finishes: Portland (warm gray), Bucks County (buff/tan), Old World (antique cream), Carbon (charcoal gray).
B. Texture Options: Smooth (form finish), light sandblast, medium sandblast, acid-etch exposed aggregate, and custom tooled profiles.
C. Custom Colors: Match architect's physical sample or specified color reference. Minimum 6-week lead for custom color development. Submit color batch samples before production.
PART 3 — EXECUTION
3.1 EXAMINATION
A. Inspect primary wall framing and anchorage substrate for dimensional compliance, plumb, and flatness before panel installation.
B. Verify anchor locations match shop drawings within allowable tolerances.
C. Do not begin installation until unsatisfactory conditions are corrected and documented.
3.2 INSTALLATION
A. Sequence: Install panels per approved erection sequence. Do not overload structure or framing beyond design loads.
B. Anchorage: Connect each panel at all designated anchor points. Verify all fasteners are torqued per engineer's specification.
C. Shimming: Use stainless steel or plastic shims at bearing points. Do not use wood, ferrous metal, or aluminum shims.
D. Panel Joints: Maintain 3/4" nominal joint width at panel-to-panel joints (verify with drawings). Do not force panels into position.
3.3 SEALANT JOINTS
A. Install backer rod and single-stage polyurethane or silicone sealant at all panel joints, perimeter conditions, and transitions.
B. Sealant color to match panel finish. Submit sealant color samples for approval.
C. Joint width-to-depth ratio: 2:1 for sealant application. Minimum joint width 3/4".
3.4 TOLERANCES (INSTALLED)
A. Panel plumb: +/- 1/4" per 10 ft of height
B. Panel alignment (coplanar): +/- 1/4" between adjacent panels
C. Joint width: +/- 3/16" from specified joint width
3.5 CLEANING & PROTECTION
A. Protection: Apply building paper or polyethylene protection to completed panels during construction to prevent soiling and damage.
B. Cleaning: Clean exposed surfaces with plain water or pH-neutral detergent. Do not use acidic cleaners, high-pressure washing above 600 psi, or wire brushes on GFRC surfaces.
C. Sealant: Do not apply penetrating sealers to GFRC face without architect review of product compatibility.
END OF SECTION 03 49 00
COLUMN_A,COLUMN_B,COLUMN_C,COLUMN_D
Section,03 49 00,Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete Cladding Panels,
CSI Format,MasterFormat 2024,,
Part,Topic,Requirement,Reference
1.1,Related Docs,Drawings and General Conditions apply,Div 01
1.2,Scope,GFRC cladding panels; Steel stud backup frames; Concealed anchors; Custom profiles,,
1.3,References,ASTM C947 (Flexural Properties),,
1.3,References,ASTM C1116 (Fiber-Reinforced Concrete),,
1.3,References,ASTM E119 (Fire Tests),,
1.3,References,ASTM C666 (Freeze-Thaw),,
1.3,References,PCI MNL-128 (GFRC Practice),,
1.4,Submittals,Product data; Shop drawings; Samples; Test reports; Mix design; QA docs,,
1.5,QA,Fabricator 10+ years GFRC experience; Independent lab testing,ASTM C947
1.5,QA,Full-size mock-up per schedule; Pre-install conference,,
1.6,Handling,Padded A-frames; Vertical storage; Spreader bars for lifts,,
2.1,Manufacturer,Mesa Precast (AZ, TX, PA),480-600-6776 — Jess Mason
2.2,Glass Fiber,AR glass fiber; 16mm min length; 3-5% by weight,ASTM C1116
2.2,Polymer,Acrylic polymer emulsion per PCI MNL-128,,
2.2,Flexural Str.,MOR 1200 psi minimum; LOP 600 psi minimum,ASTM C947
2.2,Compressive,4000 psi minimum at 28 days,,
2.2,Freeze-Thaw,300 cycles; no visible deterioration,ASTM C666
2.3,Backup Frame,Galvanized steel stud integral to panel; Flex anchor bond system,ASTM A123
2.4,Anchorage,Concealed clip-and-rod or cast-in; 304 SS or HDG steel,,
2.4,Movement,+/- 3/4" in-plane; +/- 1/4" out-of-plane,,
2.5,Face Thick.,3/4" minimum at face; Ribs at perimeter,PCI MNL-128
2.5,Tolerances,Length/width +/-1/8"; Flatness L/500 or 1/4"; Anchors +/-1/4",,
2.6,Finishes,Portland / Bucks County / Old World / Carbon,Custom available
3.2,Installation,Per erection sequence; All anchors torqued; SS/plastic shims,,
3.2,Joints,3/4" nominal joint width; Backer rod + sealant,,
3.3,Sealant,Polyurethane or silicone; Color match; 2:1 width-to-depth,,
3.4,Tolerances,Plumb +/-1/4"/10ft; Coplanar +/-1/4"; Joint width +/-3/16",,
3.5,Cleaning,pH-neutral detergent; No acid cleaners; No high-pressure,,
END OF SECTION,,,
03 49 00 - GLASS FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE CLADDING PANELS
SCOPE: Furnish and install GFRC exterior cladding panels with integral steel stud backup frames and concealed clip-and-rod anchorage per these specifications and reviewed shop drawings.
MATERIAL: GFRC mix per ASTM C1116:
- AR (alkali-resistant) glass fiber: 3-5% by weight, 16mm minimum length
- Acrylic polymer emulsion per PCI MNL-128
- Flexural strength (MOR): 1,200 psi minimum (ASTM C947)
- Limit of proportionality (LOP): 600 psi minimum (ASTM C947)
- Compressive strength: 4,000 psi minimum at 28 days
- Freeze-thaw: 300 cycles, no visible deterioration (ASTM C666)
- Coloring: Inorganic iron oxide pigments, UV-stable
MANUFACTURER: Mesa Precast | ArchStone Global
- Mesa, AZ — Contact: Jess Mason, 480-600-6776
- Additional plants: Texas, Pennsylvania
BACKUP FRAME: Integral galvanized steel stud backup frame. Flex anchors (bonding pads) at frame-to-skin connection to accommodate differential thermal movement. All embedded ferrous components hot-dip galvanized per ASTM A123.
ANCHORAGE: Concealed clip-and-threaded-rod or cast-in anchor system. Hot-dip galvanized steel or Type 304 stainless steel. Accommodate +/- 3/4" in-plane and +/- 1/4" out-of-plane movement.
TOLERANCES: Length/width +/- 1/8". Flatness: L/500 or 1/4" max. Anchor location +/- 1/4". Installed plumb +/- 1/4" per 10 ft. Coplanar +/- 1/4" between adjacent panels.
FINISHES: Standard colors (Portland, Bucks County, Old World, Carbon). Textures: smooth, sandblast, acid-etch exposed aggregate. Custom color matching available.
INSTALLATION: Per approved erection sequence. Stainless steel or plastic shims only. 3/4" nominal panel joints. Backer rod and polyurethane or silicone sealant at all joints. No wood or ferrous metal shims.
CLEANING: pH-neutral detergent and water. No acidic cleaners, high-pressure wash above 600 psi, or wire brushes on GFRC face.
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION: Full 3-part CSI format with all submittals, QA requirements, and installation tolerances available at archstoneglobal.polsia.app/specs-gfrc-cladding.html
PDF contains Mesa Precast MasterFormat 03 49 00 specification with ASTM C947, C1116, C1185, C666, PCI MNL-117 and MNL-128 references. Includes GFRC-specific material selection guide. Contact Jess Mason at 480-600-6776 for Word (.docx) format.
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