nqfiberglassmesh | Breakdown of Different Fiberglass Cloths and Their Applications

Breakdown of Different Fiberglass Cloths and Their Applications

Introduction

Fiberglass may seem complex, but understanding what fiberglass is used for reveals its key role in various fields such as wind turbine blades, automotive manufacturing, and building materials. Knowing the different types of fiberglass will help you make more informed and professional decisions.
This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the main types of fiberglass, the pros and cons of each product, typical applications, and a comparison between fiberglass mat and fabric, helping you quickly identify the best material for your project.
Ready to dive into the world of fiberglass? Let’s get started!

What is Fiberglass Fabric?

Fiberglass fabric is a reinforcement material woven from glass fiber yarns. It offers excellent properties such as lightweight, high strength, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance. Commonly used with resins like epoxy or polyester, fiberglass fabric is widely applied in boat building, construction reinforcement, thermal insulation, automotive parts, and mold making. Depending on the weave pattern—such as plain, twill, or satin—it can adapt to different shapes and performance requirements for structural reinforcement. 

The following are the more common specifications and models of fiberglass cloth.

Poids

 (oz/yd²)

GSM

Weave Type

Warp Count (ends/10cm)

Weft Count (ends/10cm)

Épaisseur

 (mm)

1.5

51

uniaxial

10

10

0.13

3

102

uniaxial

20

20

0.20

6

203

uniaxial

40

40

0.35

8

270

biax

50

50

0.45

10

340

biax

60

60

0.55

12

407

triaxial

70

70

0.65

18

610

triaxial

90

90

0.90

24

813

multiaxis

110

110

1.10

75

2537

multiaxis

300

300

2.00

Types of Fiberglass Fabric

Woven Fiberglass Fabric

Woven fiberglass fabric consists of long glass fiber yarns. These yarns are interwoven in both the warp and weft directions. The fabric structure is stable and has excellent mechanical properties. Common weaving methods include plain, twill and satin. It resists high temperatures, corrosion, and electricity well. This makes it great for reinforcing composite materials. You can also find it in electrical insulation, fire protection, and anti-corrosion uses.

Advantages

  • Strong and rigid: the woven design offers great tensile strength and stable dimensions.
  • Good high temperature resistance: adapt to a variety of high temperature application environments.
  • Excellent electrical insulation performance: suitable for electrical insulation and protection purposes.
  • Corrosion and chemical resistance: can resist erosion by a variety of chemical media.
  • Lightweight and easy to process:This is great for molding composite materials. It also enhances the material’s overall performance.

Disadvantages

  • Rough surface: not as soft as coated cloth, easy to hook or wear.
  • No waterproof or oil-proof features: you need extra coating to ensure protection.
  • Easily absorbs moisture:This can change mechanical properties and insulation effectiveness in humid settings.
  • Easy to generate fiber dust: protective measures should be taken during processing.

Perforated PVC/Silicone Coated Fiberglass Fabric

Perforated PVC/Silicone Coated Fiberglass Fabric starts with a fiberglass base. First, a layer of PVC or silicone is applied. Then, holes are punched in the fabric using a precise process. This makes the fabric breathable and drainable. It’s popular for ventilation, heat insulation, filtration, and drainage.

The perforated design enhances breathability and drainage, expanding the fabric’s applications while keeping its strength and durability.

Advantages

  • Breathability and drainage: The perforated design allows for air flow and moisture removal. This makes it suitable for many uses.
  • High temperature resistance and chemical stability: PVC and silicone coatings guard against heat and chemical damage, making it ideal for industrial environments.
  • Enhanced mechanical strength: The perforations don’t significantly weaken the fabric, which maintains high tensile and tear resistance.
  • Wide applicability: It can be used in tents, ventilation ducts, heat shields, and filtration equipment, increasing application flexibility.
  • Waterproof and antifouling: The coating keeps the fabric dry and effective in humid conditions.

Disadvantages

  • Impact on structural strength: While the overall strength remains, excessive perforations may weaken tensile strength under heavy loads.
  • Higher cost: The perforation process raises costs compared to standard coated fiberglass cloth.
  • Rigidity in low temperatures: Like regular PVC and silicone coated cloth, it may harden in cold environments.
  • Cleaning and maintenance challenges: Cleaning can be more time-consuming due to dirt buildup in the holes.

Fiberglass Prepregs

Manufacturers create fiberglass prepregs by soaking fiberglass fabrics in thermoplastic or thermosetting resins. This process boosts fiber strength and performance. The prepregs offer even resin distribution and high consistency. Hot pressing or vacuum bagging is used to mold them. They are strong, well-insulated, and more affordable than carbon fiber. These materials are useful in many industries. They help reduce weight in areas like aerospace, motorsports, sporting goods, pressure vessels, and commercial products.

Advantages

  • Cost-Effective: This material costs less than carbon fiber, making it ideal for budget projects.
  • Excellent electrical insulation: ideal for electrical devices and PCB support structures.
  • Superior Corrosion Resistance: Performs well in wet, chemical, and salty environments.
  • User-Friendly Processing: Lower temperatures and tooling needs simplify manufacturing.
  • Higher Impact Toughness: Less brittle than carbon fiber, which lowers cracking risks.

Disadvantages

  • Lower Mechanical Strength: Not suitable for high-load or stiff structures.
  • Heavier Material: Denser than carbon fiber, limiting ultralight designs.
  • Moderate Heat Resistance: Less stable at high temperatures.
  • Limited Aesthetic Appeal: Lacks the sleek appearance of carbon fiber on visible surfaces.

PTFE (Teflon) Coated Fiberglass Fabric

PTFE-coated fiberglass fabric is made from strong fiberglass. It has a layer of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), known as Teflon, on its surface. It also offers great anti-sticking and corrosion resistance. This fabric is commonly used in food processing conveyor belts, demolding cloths, anti-corrosion seals, and electronic insulation materials.

Advantages

  • High temperature resistance: Works well from about -70°C to 260°C.
  • Excellent corrosion resistance: Resistant to nearly all chemicals and solvents.
  • Ultra-low friction coefficient: Smooth surface with great anti-sticking properties; easy to clean.
  • Excellent aging resistance: Stands up to UV, ozone, and weathering for a long life.
  • Good electrical insulation: Suitable for various electrical insulation and protection needs.
  • Safe during combustion: Produces no toxic smoke when burned, making it environmentally friendly.

Disadvantages

  • Poor flexibility: The hard coating can crease or crack at bends.
  • Complicated processing technology: Requires high coating uniformity and adhesion, which raises costs.
  • Weak heat sealing and bonding: Hard to bond with heat sealing or regular adhesives.
  • High cost: More expensive than regular fiberglass cloth and other coated fabrics.

Axial Fiberglass Fabric

Axial fiberglass fabric is a non-woven, multi-axial material. It includes unidirectional, biaxial, triaxial, and multiaxial fiberglass cloths. Layers are held together with stitching technology. Axial fabrics are defined by their fiber orientation: uniaxial (0°), biaxial (0°/90°), triaxial (+45°/0°/-45°), and multiaxial (0°/90°/+45°/-45°). Unlike traditional woven fiberglass, axial fiberglass does not have interlacing or curling. It provides consistent thickness, better strength, and is lighter. This fabric is often used in wind turbine blades, boats, cars, and buildings.

Advantages

  • High-strength directional reinforcement: Increases strength in specific directions, like 0° and 90°. This boosts structural efficiency.
  • Smooth surface: No yarn interweaving and low resin absorption lead to uniform thickness. This cuts down on resin use and lightens the final product.
  • Stitched design: It strengthens the bond between layers and reduces the delamination risk.
  • High processing efficiency: It performs effectively with large-area molding methods like VARTM, RTM, and hand lay-up.
  • Flexible design: You can change the fiber direction and weight to fit different reinforcement needs.

Disadvantages

  • High manufacturing costs: Stitching equipment and multi-axial layering make it more expensive than woven fabrics.
  • Limited flexibility: The fiber layout cuts down the fabric’s flexibility. This makes it tough to use for complex curves.
  • More difficult to cut: Stitched edges may fray easily, requiring special treatment or thermal cutting.
  • High process requirements: You need to control layer direction and thickness carefully. This makes it best for experienced manufacturers.
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Key Applications of Fiberglass Fabric

Concrete Reinforcement:Insulation & Roofing Systems

In modern construction, fiberglass fabrics significantly enhance material performance. Embedding woven fiberglass mesh in concrete increases tensile strength by up to 30-40%, effectively reducing crack formation and extending structural lifespan (Source: ACI Journal, 2021). In insulation and roofing applications, fiberglass materials improve thermal regulation, helping buildings retain up to 25% more heat during winter and deflect up to 20% more solar heat in summer (Source: ASHRAE Research Report, 2020).These improvements contribute to an overall reduction in building energy consumption by as much as 15-20%, delivering both durability and energy efficiency in one integrated solution (Source: DOE Energy Efficiency Studies, 2019)

Automotive: The Lightweight Armor Behind Smarter Vehicles

Fiberglass has become the go-to material for automakers chasing the holy grail: strength without weight. Used in body panels, bumpers, and structural parts, fiberglass composites help reduce overall vehicle weight while maintaining crash safety and design flexibility. It’s the unseen hero behind sleeker shapes, improved fuel economy, and the push toward greener transportation—where every gram matters.

Marine: Engineered to Withstand the Sea

Salt, waves, wind—fiberglass takes it all. Boats, hulls, decks, and marine equipment are increasingly built using fiberglass-reinforced structures and fiberglass sheets for boats thanks to their excellent waterproofing and anti-corrosion properties. Known for its impressive strength, fiberglass offers a rare combination of high strength, lightweight construction, and long-term durability—making it ideal for vessels that face nature’s harshest elements. If you’ve ever wondered how strong is fiberglass, rest assured that its robust tensile strength and resistance to environmental damage make it a top choice in marine applications.

Aerospace: Lightweight Materials for Sky-High Efficiency

In aerospace, every kilogram counts. Fiberglass fabrics are used in various aircraft components to help reduce weight without compromising on structural integrity. These advanced composites contribute to better fuel efficiency, extended flight ranges, and lower emissions. It’s a material that empowers the industry to literally go further—faster, and cleaner.

Sports Equipment: Hidden Power in Performance Gear

From golf clubs and tennis rackets to bicycle frames and skis, fiberglass fabrics bring strength, flexibility, and precision to athletic gear. By absorbing impact while maintaining structural form, they help athletes push their limits without being weighed down. The result? Gear that feels like an extension of the body—lighter, faster, stronger.

DIY Projects: The Creative Reinforcer for Makers

Fiberglass fabrics aren’t just for industrial giants—they’re a favorite among DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists too. Whether repairing broken furniture, building model airplanes, or crafting custom designs, fiberglass offers unmatched versatility and strength. It’s easy to mold, surprisingly durable, and opens up endless possibilities for those who like to build with their own hands.

Comparison: Fiberglass Mat vs Fiberglass Fabric

Category

Tapis en fibre de verre

Tissu de fibre de verre

Structure

Non-woven; randomly oriented fibers

Woven; fibers arranged in patterns (e.g., plain, twill, satin)

Surface Appearance

Soft, fuzzy texture with irregular fiber distribution

Smooth surface with visible weave patterns

Flexibility & Conformability

Highly flexible; easily conforms to complex shapes

Moderate flexibility; stiffer at higher weights

Mechanical Strength

Lower tensile strength; suitable for non-load-bearing applications

High tensile strength; ideal for load-bearing or structural use

Resin Absorption

Fast resin wet-out; excellent for quick lamination

Slower resin penetration; requires careful application

Ease of Handling

Easy to cut, doesn’t fray; beginner-friendly

Requires precise cutting; edges may fray

Typical Applications

Insulation backing, boat linings, large surface coverage, DIY repairs

Aerospace panels, automotive parts, boat hulls, structural reinforcements

Mold Compatibility

Great for complex, irregular molds

Best for flat or geometrically stable molds

Heat & Chemical Resistance

Good general resistance

Superior resistance, especially under heat and stress

Cost

More cost-effective; ideal for mass production

Higher cost; justified by high performance

Conclusion

Fiberglass fabric is a reliable, cost-effective, and versatile material widely used for insulation, reinforcement, and more. Whether you’re tackling DIY repairs, installing fiberglass rolls for building insulation, or sourcing fiberglass insulation fabric for industrial use, it delivers excellent performance across applications. As a fiberglass fabric manufacturer with 16 years of experience, we are here to help you find the right fiberglass solution for your project. If you’re wondering where can I buy fiberglass cloth, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp at 0086-13775339109, WeChat 13775339100, or email us at fiberglassmesh@hotmail.com—we’re ready to assist you!

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Can you touch fiberglass fabric?

Yes, you can touch fiberglass fabric, such as fiberglass cloth, fiberglass woven fabric, or fiberglass rolls, but it’s not recommended without protection. The tiny glass fibers can cause irritation, itching, or even micro-cuts on the skin. Always wear gloves, long sleeves, and use a dust mask if cutting or sanding. Contact with fiberglass proof clothes is safer, especially in professional applications like boat building or insulation installation.

The purpose of fiberglass is to provide high strength, light weight, thermal insulation, corrosion resistance, and fire retardancy. Fiberglass is used in many forms such as fiberglass cloth, fiber glass cloth, fiberglass fabric and resin systems, and glass fiber unidirectional cloth. Its typical applications include boat stringers, automotive panels, roofing, and composite structures. Fiberglass can also be layered with resin for added rigidity in marine and aerospace applications.

Fiberglass mat, with its randomly oriented fibers, excels at conforming to complex shapes and is often used for creating smooth surfaces or for adding thickness in a mold. Fiberglass cloth and mat are both used to reinforce resin in composite construction, but they offer different properties and are suited for different applications. Fiberglass cloth, with its woven structure, provides high strength and is ideal for projects needing structural support and dimensional stability. 

Fiberglass fabric can be used safely with proper handling. However, when the material is cut or disturbed, it may release fine airborne particles that can cause skin irritation or respiratory discomfort. Direct contact may lead to rashes, while inhaling the fibers may irritate the lungs. To minimize risks, users should always wear protective clothing—preferably fiberglass-resistant fabric—along with safety goggles and an N95 mask, and ensure the workspace is well-ventilated. These precautions are especially important when working in enclosed areas or applying heat during the use of fiberglass fabric and resin.

Generally, yes. Glass fabric, fiberglass cloth, and fiberglass woven fabric all refer to fabrics made from glass fibers. However, specific glass types (E-glass, S-glass) and weaves (plain, satin, twill) may differ by application. Glass fiber unidirectional cloth is a specialized form of fiberglass used in aerospace and high-performance composites.

Fiberglass fabric: Inorganic, heat- and fire-resistant, used with epoxy or polyester resins. Ideal for marine, industrial, and insulation applications.Polyester fabric: Organic, less heat-resistant, commonly used for clothing and upholstery.In composite work, polyester cloth with fiberglass resin is sometimes used, but it does not offer the same mechanical strength as fiber glass cloth.

No, fiberglass cloth, especially tightly woven versions like woven fiberglass cloth, is not breathable. It forms an effective barrier against moisture and air, which is why it’s used in composite skins, fire blankets, and thermal barriers.

For example, fiberglass roofing can last 30-50 years with good maintenance. Fiberglass fabric can last for decades, even up to 60 years or more, if properly cared for and installed. The lifespan can vary based on several factors, including the quality of the fiberglass, the type of resin used, and environmental conditions.

Fiberglass fabric offers excellent weather resistance, corrosion resistance, and thermal stability, making it well-suited for long-term outdoor use. It is widely used in applications such as wind turbine blades, sunshades, building facades, and boat reinforcement. To enhance UV and water resistance, fiberglass fabrics with surface coatings like silicone, PVC, or PTFE are recommended.

Fiberglass fabric (e.g., 6 ounce fiberglass cloth) has tight weaves, excellent strength, and is used for structural reinforcement.Fiberglass mesh is loosely woven and used more for surface finishing, crack prevention in walls, or plastering support.Mesh is not suitable for high-stress applications like boat stringers or structural layers.

 

Fiberglass cloth: Woven (various weights: 4 oz, 6 oz, 10 oz)Fiberglass mat: Chopped strand mat (non-woven)Fiberglass rolls: For large-scale useFiberglass cloth tape: Narrow rolls for joint reinforcementUnidirectional fiberglass: Strength in one directionEach type varies by weave, fiber orientation, and resin compatibility.

E-glass: Most common, excellent electrical insulation and affordability.S-glass: Superior strength and temperature resistance.C-glass: Chemical resistance.A-glass: Low cost, low strength.Use S-glass woven fiberglass fabric in critical applications like aerospace or racing.

  • Pain weave is the most basic and widely used, offering good stability and easy handling.
  • Twill weave provides improved flexibility and drape due to its diagonal pattern, making it better for curved surfaces.
  • Satin weave offers a smooth finish, high strength-to-weight ratio, and excellent conformability, ideal for complex shapes in high-performance applications like aerospace.

Fiberglass cloth, on the other hand, is a woven fabric with fibers aligned in a grid-like pattern, offering greater tensile strength and durability, making it suitable for applications requiring structural reinforcement. The key difference between fiberglass mat and cloth lies in their structure and resulting properties. Fiberglass mat is a non-woven material made of randomly oriented short glass fibers held together by a binder, making it flexible and good for filling gaps and building thickness.

Factors to consider:Weight: e.g., 4 oz for lightweight, 10 oz for strengthWeave: Twill for curved surfaces, plain for flatResin type: Ensure compatibility (polyester, vinyl ester, epoxy)Use case: Choose fiberglass sheeting for boats, or cloth tape for pipe joints

Yes, fiberglass fabric can be used outdoors in the U.S. climate. It is known for its durability and weather resistance, including resistance to rain, snow, and sunlight.

  • Biaxial/Triaxial Fabrics: Reinforce in multiple directions, ideal for structural composites.
  • High Silica Fabric: Extreme heat resistance, used in fire protection and aerospace.
  • PTFE-Coated Fabric: Non-stick and chemical-resistant, suitable for harsh outdoor and industrial environments.
  • Silicone-Coated Fabric: Waterproof, flame-retardant, used in insulation and protective covers.
  • AR Fiberglass Fabric: Alkali-resistant, designed for use in cement and concrete (GRC).
  • Woven Roving: Heavy-duty, high-strength fabric for large composite structures.


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