| Decision | Molded mesh | Pultruded bearing bars |
|---|---|---|
| Load direction | Check the mesh construction and directional ratings | Identify bearing-bar direction and support layout |
| Openings | Review residual mesh and edge support | Check interrupted bearing bars and required framing |
| Resin and surface | Specify the complete panel construction | Specify bars, joints, resin and surface together |
| Acceptance | Request the offered panel's load and fire evidence | Request the offered bar assembly's load and fire evidence |
Start with a support and opening drawing
Mark every support, removable section, penetration and concentrated load on the plan. Ask bidders to identify the load-bearing direction and unsupported edges. Require a revised drawing when a proposed substitution changes the framing. A panel that can be cut to the requested outline still needs an acceptable load path after those cuts.
Use a common acceptance basis
Provide the designer's load cases and deflection limits to both bidders. Compare the offered panel's documented response at that span rather than ranking generic tensile strengths. State the required fire, slip and chemical-exposure evidence separately. Product-specific manufacturer literature can explain construction, but an approval for one manufacturer's panel is not transferable to a different panel.
Compare installed scope before choosing
Ask for a finished panel schedule, clip quantities, edge treatment, supports and packing. Review field-cutting instructions and replacement access. A project may use different constructions in different areas; document the decision by location so purchasing cannot combine distinct panels into one unspecified line item.
Sources and scope
These references support the stated technical context. The purchasing checklists are GetFRP recommendations. Manufacturer documents do not certify other suppliers' products.
- Strongwell: molded and pultruded grating
Manufacturer reference for construction and fabrication differences; its product approvals do not apply to other suppliers.
