BRIDGE REFURBISHMENT WITH FIBREGLASS

What is bridge refurbishment with fibreglass?

Bridge refurbishment with fibreglass is the renovation or replacement of worn bridge decks using GFRP planks instead of traditional materials such as wood, steel or concrete. It is especially relevant when the existing bridge structure can still be used, but the deck needs a lighter, corrosion resistant and low maintenance replacement.

For bridge owners, municipalities, engineering consultants and contractors, fibreglass can be a practical choice when the bridge is exposed to moisture, changing weather, de icing salts or coastal conditions. The material does not rust or rot, which makes it suitable for projects where long service life and reduced maintenance are important decision factors.

Fiberline’s plank programme supports refurbishment projects where the bridge deck must be replaced without adding unnecessary weight to the structure. The planks can be cut to length at the factory or machined on site, which gives the project team flexibility during installation.

When should you refurbish a bridge deck with fibreglass?

Bridge deck refurbishment with fibreglass makes sense when the existing deck is worn, slippery, corroded, rotten or expensive to maintain. It can also be relevant when the bridge owner wants to reduce the future maintenance burden without replacing the full bridge structure.

Typical project situations include:

• Replacement of worn wooden bridge planks
• Renovation of pedestrian bridges and cycle bridges
• Bridge decks in wet, coastal or exposed areas
• Projects where low weight can reduce installation complexity
• Locations where closures and heavy lifting should be limited
• Bridges where anti skid performance is important for users

The final solution should always be assessed based on the existing substructure, span, load requirements, fixing method and project environment. Fiberline can provide documentation and guidance for professional project teams before the final bridge deck solution is specified.

What are the benefits of using fibreglass for bridge deck refurbishment?

Fibreglass bridge deck refurbishment can reduce weight, simplify installation and lower maintenance needs compared with traditional bridge deck materials. This is particularly relevant in exposed bridge environments where corrosion, rot and surface wear can lead to recurring repair work.

The main benefits include:

Low weight
Fibreglass planks are lightweight, which can make transport, handling and installation easier. This can be an advantage when access to the bridge is limited or when the project team wants to reduce the use of heavy lifting equipment.

Corrosion resistance
GFRP does not rust or rot, making it suitable for wet, coastal and weather exposed bridge environments. This can reduce the need for recurring surface treatment compared with steel or timber deck materials.

Practical installation
Fiberline planks can be cut to length before delivery or machined on site. This helps contractors adapt the deck to the existing bridge structure and mounting details.

Anti skid surface
The planks can be delivered with an anti skid surface, supporting safe access for pedestrians and cyclists. The required surface and slip resistance should be selected according to the project and use conditions.

Low maintenance
A fibreglass bridge deck can reduce maintenance needs over time because the material resists corrosion and rot. Inspection and maintenance should still follow project requirements and relevant documentation.

Which Fiberline planks can be used for bridge refurbishment?

Fiberline offers different plank options for bridge deck refurbishment, depending on the load requirements, bridge type and project conditions. The choice of plank should always be based on the specific bridge design and engineering assessment.

Medium Duty Plank
Fiberline Medium Duty Plank is made of GFRP and is designed with an efficient price performance ratio.
See our Medium Duty planks here

Heavy Duty Plank
Fiberline Heavy Duty Plank is suitable for applications with load requirements such as decks for bike paths and pedestrian bridges.
See our Heavy Duty planks here

Ultra Duty Plank
Fiberline Ultra Duty Plank is described as the strongest Fiberline bridge decking option and is designed for stringent load requirements for pedestrian and cycle bridges.
See our Ultra Duty planks here

For exact plank selection, load requirements and installation details, contact Fiberline for project specific documentation.

How does fibreglass support faster bridge deck replacement?

Fibreglass can make bridge deck replacement more practical because the planks are lightweight, machinable and suitable for prefabrication. This can help contractors reduce complexity during installation, especially when working on existing bridges where access, time and disruption are important factors.

Fiberline planks can be cut to length at the factory or adjusted on site. Since the material does not rust, cut surfaces do not require the same corrosion protection as steel. Several brackets are available for fixed mounting, and fittings and bolts are supplied in acid proof stainless steel EN 1.4404.

This makes fibreglass relevant for refurbishment projects where the project team needs a durable bridge deck solution that can be adapted to the existing structure.

How can Fiberline support your refurbishment project?

Fiberline supports professional bridge refurbishment projects with GFRP planks, profiles, brackets, technical drawings and product documentation. Overview drawings are available for refurbishment schemes, and that project teams can contact Fiberline experts for more information.

With more than 40 years of experience in fibreglass, Fiberline can help bridge owners, municipalities, engineering consultants and contractors assess whether GFRP is relevant for a specific bridge deck replacement. Contact Fiberline for specifications, drawings and documentation before final project decisions are made.

FAQ about bridge refurbishment with fibreglass

What is bridge refurbishment with fibreglass?
Bridge refurbishment with fibreglass means replacing or upgrading worn bridge deck components with GFRP planks. It is often used when the existing bridge structure can remain in place, but the deck needs a lighter, corrosion resistant and low maintenance replacement.

When should I choose fibreglass for bridge deck replacement?
Fibreglass is relevant when the bridge deck is exposed to moisture, weather, de icing salts or corrosion risk. It is also useful when low weight, practical installation and reduced maintenance are important project criteria.

Can fibreglass planks be adjusted on site?
Yes, Fiberline states that the planks can be cut to length at the factory or machined on site. This gives contractors flexibility when adapting the deck to the existing bridge structure.

Do fibreglass bridge planks need corrosion treatment after cutting?
No additional corrosion treatment of cut surfaces is needed in the same way as with steel, because GFRP does not rust. There is no need for further treatment of cut surfaces because the material does not rust.

Are Fiberline bridge planks available with an anti skid surface?
Yes, all planks can be delivered with an anti skid surface. The right surface should be selected based on bridge use, user requirements and project documentation.

Which plank should I use for bridge refurbishment?
The right plank depends on load requirements, span, bridge type and the existing substructure. Fiberline offers Medium Duty Plank, Heavy Duty Plank and Ultra Duty Plank for different requirements, and the final choice should be assessed with project specific documentation.

Can Fiberline provide drawings for refurbishment schemes?
Yes, overview drawings are available for refurbishment schemes. Contact Fiberline’s experts for the relevant drawings and documentation for your project.

See all our fibreglass bridge solutions here