The Clear Advantages of Forton MG in Modern Cladding Solutions
In architectural rainscreen and cladding casting, selecting the right material can make a significant difference in terms of durability, finish, and flexibility. Two widely used materials are Forton MG and Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC), each offering unique benefits. Although Zoho Stone supplies both materials for cladding, over more than 30 years, we have observed exceptional qualities in Forton MG that address many of the challenges facing GFRC . Let’s explore why Forton MG may be the superior choice for certain rainscreen applications.
1. Lighter and Easier to Handle
Forton MG is significantly lighter than GFRC, weighing approximately 6 lbs per square foot compared to GFRC’s 25 lbs per square foot. This dramatic difference in weight simplifies transportation and installation, particularly in projects involving large or intricate pieces. The lighter weight of Forton MG not only reduces logistics costs but also makes handling on-site much easier, speeding up the overall workflow.
2. Exceptional Detail Replication
One of the standout qualities of Forton MG is its ability to capture fine details in molds. Its smooth texture allows for the replication of intricate surfaces and clean edges, making it ideal for architectural elements with ornamental designs. In contrast, GFRC might not achieve the same precision in detail-heavy molds.
3. Consistent Surface Finish
Forton MG provides a uniform surface finish with minimal air bubbles or surface imperfections. This consistency reduces the need for additional surface treatments or repairs. While GFRC is durable, achieving a similar level of finish often requires more post-processing work.
4. Customizability with VF-812 Additive
Forton MG’s versatility is further enhanced by the use of VF-812, an additive provided by Smooth-On. This additive transforms gypsum into a hydrophobic material, making it highly suitable for exterior application. It also assists in fine-tuning the hardness, density, and surface quality of the FMG cast material, offering more flexibility to meet specific project requirements. In contrast, GFRC uses VF-772, a different additive designed to optimize its own properties, but it doesn’t provide the same range of customization as Forton MG.
5. Long-Term Durability
Both Forton MG and GFRC are durable materials, but Forton MG offers better resistance to long-term weathering and environmental degradation in especially very cold and wet or in hot and very dry weather conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor installations and projects exposed to extreme climates, providing a longer-lasting solution with less maintenance.
6. Ease and Speed of Installation
Forton MG is not only lighter but also easier to install. Depending on the project where weight and material thickness is an issue, Forton MG thinner cladding panels can often be mounted using light aluminum framing and Z-clips, which are faster and more straightforward to work with. In contrast, GFRC installations typically require more complex infrastructure, such as light gauge steel, steel bars, metal anchor hardware, and welding. This additional hardware and labor can extend project timelines and increase overall installation costs. For projects aiming for faster turnarounds and lower labor costs, Forton MG offers a clear advantage.
7. Environmental Impact
Forton MG is the more sustainable option compared to GFRC in two key ways:
Water Usage: Unlike GFRC, Forton MG does not require water in its production process. This makes it particularly beneficial in regions where water is a scarce resource, such as the Middle East. The elimination of water usage not only conserves this precious resource but also reduces the environmental footprint of manufacturing.
Carbon Footprint: Forton MG produces only 1/10th of the CO2 emissions that GFRC does during its production. With growing concern over climate change and the need to lower carbon emissions, using Forton MG is a much more environmentally friendly choice. Its lower carbon footprint makes it ideal for projects that prioritize sustainability and aim to minimize their environmental impact.
Conclusion
Although GFRC remains a reliable material for architectural casting, but Forton MG’s lighter weight (6 lbs/sqft vs. 25 lbs/sqft), superior detail replication, customizable additives like VF-812, consistent finish, ease of installation, and significantly lower environmental impact (no water usage and reduced CO2 emissions) make it a more versatile and eco-friendly option. Whether for detailed ornamental pieces or lightweight structural elements, Forton MG delivers both aesthetic and functional advantages while also being better for the planet.
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