Facade Mouldings: Polyurethane, GRC and EPS
Polyurethane, GRC and EPS facade mouldings are assessed by their weight, fixing method, detail potential, surface treatment, fire information and facade context. Polure produces made-to-order polyurethane decorative profiles for European renovation and facade projects.
Which facade moulding material fits the project?
Polyurethane is suitable for renovation work and detailed classical facades when a lightweight, adaptable profile is required; GRC is considered for new construction where anchors and structural connections can be planned; EPS is used where the facade is developed together with an exterior insulation system.
- Polyurethane: Its lightweight form, precise detailing and compatibility with adhesive fixing make it suitable for renovation facades and decorative window surround applications.
- GRC: This is a glass fibre reinforced, cement-based precast material, and heavier components may require anchors, structural connections and an application plan.
- EPS: This is expanded polystyrene foam, installed on exterior facades with render and mesh, commonly as part of an exterior insulation system.
What are polyurethane, GRC and EPS?
Polyurethane, GRC and EPS are decorative exterior facade materials with different production structures and fixing methods.
- Polyurethane: Polure exterior facade mouldings are made from high-density rigid cast polyurethane profiles, with density information provided through 150-220 kg/m³.
- GRC: GRC is a glass fibre reinforced, cement-based precast material.
- EPS: EPS is expanded polystyrene foam finished with render and mesh on the surface.
How do weight and fixing differ?
Polyurethane is a lightweight decorative material fixed with PU-based mounting adhesive, while mechanical fixing can be added when the component or application requires it.
- Polyurethane: The surface is prepared, PU-based mounting adhesive is applied and the profile is pressed into position; curing information is taken from 60–90 min clamping in the adhesive, full strength after 2–3 days. Screws and wall plugs can provide additional support for wide or heavy components.
- GRC: GRC is heavier than polyurethane and may call for anchors, structural connections and scaffolding planning.
- EPS: EPS is a lightweight material installed as part of an exterior insulation system, with render, mesh and surface layers planned together.
Silicone is not used for polyurethane fixing. Installation service is considered within the quotation according to the project size and location.
How do detail, surface and coating compare?
Polyurethane allows fine, clearly defined facade details and can be adapted to classical or contemporary forms through mould production.
Polure polyurethane products are supplied with white 1K acrylic primer factory primer and can be coated on site in the selected colour. Joints are filled with paintable acrylic filler, followed by 180-220 grit sanding to prepare the surface for coating.
GRC applications retain the character of a cement-based precast surface, while EPS applications show the finish created by render and mesh. For each material, surface preparation and the coating system should be selected according to the conditions of the project.
What fire information should be reviewed?
For Polure polyurethane products, the fire rating B2 (DIN 4102-1) and information about the phosphorus-based flame retardant additive are considered.
For GRC and EPS, the classification should be checked in the manufacturer's classification document. The facade requirements in the applicable building regulations are reviewed together with the project designer.
Where can each material be used?
The material is selected according to the facade type and the conditions of installation.
- Renovation facade: Polyurethane may be considered for its lightweight structure and suitability for adhesive fixing.
- New building: GRC requires planning for anchors and structural connections, while polyurethane and EPS require details compatible with the facade system.
- Upper-storey facades: For GRC, component weight, lifting arrangements, anchors and scaffolding planning require particular attention.
- Classical facade with fine ornament: Polyurethane can be shaped into detailed decorative and profile forms through mould production.
- Facade with an exterior insulation system: EPS is installed within the system, while polyurethane mouldings are positioned after reviewing the surface, adhesive and mechanical support details.
