Planefibra Launches Composite Roofs to Replace Metal Roofs

Brazilian company Planefibra has launched an opaque roofing material called Planemax, made from glass fiber reinforced polymer composites (GFRP). It is specifically developed for environments with significant corrosion, such as chemical plants, port warehouses, and industrial fertilizer sites, where traditional materials have a shortened lifespan.

According to Planefibra, this new material can replace metal or fiber cement roofing materials—the latter often experiences performance degradation due to erosion by moisture and corrosive media. Corrosion causes significant economic losses worldwide. According to the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), the annual economic loss due to corrosion globally accounts for approximately 3.4% of the global GDP, equivalent to about $2.5 trillion annually.

Against this background, composite materials are receiving increasing attention as structural alternative solutions exposed to chemical, saline, or humid environments.

The manufacturer claims that the product can last for more than ten years with "almost zero maintenance." In contrast, metal roofs typically last no more than five years in corrosive environments, while fiber cement materials may absorb water, potentially leading to leaks and structural overload.

The weight of the board is approximately 3.4 kilograms per square meter, while some fiber cement boards can weigh up to 17 kilograms per square meter. Over a ten-year usage period, it is expected to save up to 70% in overall costs. This product supports complete customization in color and surface treatment.