Now is the Time to Market FRP Composites in Construction

At ACMA we are expanding our efforts to help members supplying construction materials as several market forces combine to make FRP composites more attractive. Over the past decade, the priorities of the construction and architectural industries have evolved dramatically, shaped by regulatory pressure and consumer demand for greener products. Today, the demands for sustainability, affordability and resilience are reshaping how architects, designers, builders and building owners approach every new project. In this shifting landscape, the industry can position FRP composites as a breakthrough material – and there has never been a better time to bring their benefits to the forefront of the market.

Sustainable Building Design

The rise of sustainable building design reflects a universal commitment to environmental stewardship and cost efficiency. Structures are designed to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste and utilize resources more efficiently. FRP composites align perfectly with these goals. They are lightweight, require less energy to transport and install, and can be manufactured with recycled materials. Additionally, their resistance to corrosion and durability means fewer replacements, reducing long-term environmental impact. Architects and designers seeking LEED certification or striving to meet strict environmental standards will find FRP composites an attractive option for sustainable construction.

Affordable Housing

Affordable housing remains one of the greatest challenges facing cities and communities nationwide. Builders are under pressure to deliver safe, modern living spaces at lower costs without sacrificing quality. FRP composite products offer a compelling answer: they can be prefabricated, reducing labor and construction time, and they are less expensive to maintain than traditional materials. Their lightweight nature also enables rapid assembly and transport, making them ideal for modular and prefabricated housing units. For building owners and developers working within tight budgets, FRP composites present an opportunity for innovation and efficiency.

Resilient Housing

Extreme weather, climate change and unforeseen disasters have heightened the need for resilient construction. Buildings must withstand floods, earthquakes, hurricanes and other environmental stresses. FRP composites excel in resilience: they are non-corrosive, high-strength and offer excellent resistance to moisture and chemicals. Their flexibility and adaptability mean they can be engineered to meet a variety of structural demands, ensuring homes and buildings remain safe and inhabitable, even in adverse conditions. This is crucial for communities rebuilding after disasters or preparing for future risks.

Why Now?

The convergence of sustainable building design, affordable housing and resiliency trends has created a perfect opportunity for marketing FRP composites. Architects and designers are searching for materials that solve multiple challenges at once. Builders and owners are seeking solutions that are both practical and future-proof. FRP composites answer these needs with a unique blend of sustainability, cost-effectiveness and durability. By highlighting these advantages, marketers can position FRP composites as the material of choice for modern construction and seize the moment in an industry hungry for innovation.

ACMA’s FRP in Sustainable Buildings Initiative

To capitalize on the current momentum for FRP composites, ACMA has launched a comprehensive program with three key pillars: branding and communications, industry education and strategic market positioning for manufacturers. This will be a significant topic at the 2026 ACMA Washington Fly-In, June 9-11 in Washington, DC. A steering committee is directing association programs for ACMA’s FRP in Sustainable Buildings Initiative. The committee is composed of ACMA members focused on increasing sales of products for the built environment.

First, the steering committee is overseeing development of a strong branding initiative to craft a unified message that highlights the sustainability, affordability and resilience of FRP composites, leveraging case studies and visual storytelling to demonstrate real-world benefits. This will be paired with targeted communications across digital platforms, trade publications and industry events to reach architects, builders and owners where they make material decisions.

Second, the ACMA FRP in Sustainable Buildings Initiative will include educational efforts focused on raising awareness about green building standards and the critical importance of resilience and cost efficiency. Workshops and webinars will equip industry professionals with knowledge about how FRP composites meet or exceed LEED and other sustainability benchmarks. These initiatives should also address regulatory changes and best practices, ensuring that stakeholders understand the long-term value and compliance advantages of FRP materials.

Industry members especially need education about the recently announced Common Materials Framework, based on the American Institute of Architect’s Architecture and Design Materials Pledge, which will provide a common standardized framework used by construction products manufacturers to report on the climate, environmental, human health and societal impacts associated with their products.

Finally, the ACMA program will position manufacturers as thought leaders and solution providers, which will be essential for effective market penetration. By collaborating with architectural firms, construction companies and regulatory bodies, manufacturers can showcase innovative applications and provide technical resources that simplify the adoption of FRP composites. Joint marketing campaigns, demonstration projects and strategic partnerships can further elevate the profile of FRP solutions, driving industry-wide acceptance and preference for these advanced materials.

With these integrated strategies, ACMA’s initiative will not only educate and inspire the industry but also empower manufacturers to capture the growing demand for sustainable, resilient and cost-effective building solutions.

John Schweitzer is Vice President of EH&S and Sustainability at ACMA. Contact him at jschweitzer@acmanet.org to learn more about ACMA’s FRP in Sustainable Buildings Initiative.