FRP Grating Installation Checklist: From Delivery to First Walk

The full install briefing on one page.

On delivery

• Check panel count and numbering against the layout drawing before the truck leaves
• Verify panel depth and mesh on sample panels — depth errors are visible instantly, resin errors are not
• Store flat, on bearers, out of direct sunlight if storage exceeds a month (pigments are UV-stabilized; why test it)

Before laying panels

• Confirm support centres against the load table's span basis — not the nominal drawing span
• Check support flatness; shim before laying, not after
• Mark span direction on pultruded panels — bearing bars perpendicular to supports, every time

Laying and fixing

• Minimum 25 mm bearing per edge (40 mm preferred); overhangs ≤ 50 mm
• 3–6 mm panel-to-panel gaps; ≥ 10 mm at walls
• Clip pattern: corner clips at 4-panel intersections, edge clips at 600 mm, hold-downs at 1 200 mm
• 316 stainless hardware only; snug torque — do not crush bars

Cut-outs and edges

• Openings over 150 mm: add trimmer support — a cut-out is a bearing loss, not just a hole
• Pultruded cut ends: end-cap or resin-seal
• Molded cut edges: no sealing required — verify this clause didn't sneak into your spec

Handover

• Walk the deck: listen for drumming (loose clips), feel for rocking (shimming skipped)
• File: panel layout as-built, load table, mill certs, chemical confirmation

Expanded reasoning for each item lives in the full installation guide.