Fiberglass beams and steel beams are both commonly used in construction, but each comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks.
Fiberglass beams are made of fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) — a composite of glass fibers and resin. FRP is strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant, and fiberglass beams are also non-conductive, a good choice where electrical shock is a risk. They do run more expensive than steel beams, though, and can be trickier to work with.
Steel beams are made of steel — a strong, durable material that’s also relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. Steel isn’t as corrosion-resistant as fiberglass, though, and can rust if exposed to moisture.
So which beam is better? It depends on your project’s specific requirements. If corrosion resistance is a major concern, fiberglass beams are the better pick. If cost is the priority, steel beams make more sense. Ultimately, a qualified engineer or architect should weigh in on the final decision.
Here’s a quick summary of the key differences:
| Feature | Fiberglass beams | Steel beams |
| Strength | Just as strong as steel in the lengthwise direction | Stronger than fiberglass in the lengthwise direction |
| Weight | Lighter than steel | Heavier than fiberglass |
| Corrosion resistance | Highly corrosion-resistant | Not as corrosion-resistant as fiberglass |
| Electrical conductivity | Non-conductive | Conductive |
| Cost | More expensive than steel | Less expensive than fiberglass |
| Ease of working with | More difficult to work with than steel | Easier to work with than fiberglass |
Other Factors to Weigh
The environment where the beams will be used matters — fiberglass beams handle wet or humid environments better than steel. The size and weight of the beams matters too, since fiberglass is lighter and may be preferable where weight is a concern. And of course, budget plays a role — steel beams cost less, making them a fit for tighter-budget projects.
Ultimately, the best way to choose between fiberglass and steel beams is to consult a qualified engineer or architect, who can assess your specific needs and recommend the right beam type for your project.