There’s a good chance you own an Apple iPhone, but there’s an even better chance you had no idea Apple headquarters in Cupertino, California, was built with the world’s largest freestanding carbon fiber roof, which was named the “Theatre.” Originally, the roof was to be constructed from aluminum, but Apple wanted to make an even greater leap into the future and opted instead for carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) as their construction material of choice. The ring-shaped roof spans 140 feet in diameter and weighs more than 80 tons, built from panels 11 feet wide and 70 feet long. The intent was to create a building with net zero carbon emissions, with an overall reduction in the building’s ecological footprint. The building is a great testament to the innovation and ingenuity that is beginning to take over the industry of construction—buildings, bridges, decks, and the repair of stressed and compromised concrete structures.

The advantages of CFRP in construction include its perfect suitability for the construction of exterior trim, door components and systems, windows, fencing, and also its lighter weight, which reduces the manpower needed for handling, which thus saves time and expense in any project. Unfortunately, the cost of carbon fiber construction products does not make CFRP a cost-effective option in residential construction. But as carbon fiber gains more acceptability in the construction industry, beyond just foundation repair and the reinforcement of concrete structural supports, demand will increase, and eventually, technology will find less expensive methods for the manufacturer of carbon fiber. In the future, carbon fiber will replace the need for asphalt, rubber, and metal roofing, and will become a siding option that requires no repair.

The future of carbon fiber as a go-to option in the construction industry is coming, and Carbon Fiber Support takes pride in being one of the first providers of CFRP materials for use in the reinforcement and repair of concrete foundations, basement walls, and concrete structural supports. Look over our catalog of the products available for your current projects. You don’t have to wait for the future to put carbon fiber to use on your job site!