Printable Glassfibre Wallcovering: Built Tough for Demanding Interiors

Made from woven glass fibers and engineered for exceptional strength, breathability, and longevity, printable glassfibre substrates combine performance with printability. They’re ideal for environments where traditional vinyl or textile wallcoverings may not hold up — yet still need to look great.

Here’s what makes printable glassfibre wallcoverings unique, and when they’re the right choice for your next interior print project.

What Is a Glassfibre Wallcovering?

Glassfibre (or fiberglass) wallcoverings are made from thin strands of glass woven into a strong, stable fabric. These are then coated to create a print-receptive surface compatible with digital printing.

Originally used for paint-on finishes in commercial spaces, modern versions are optimized for latex and UV printing, giving designers and architects the ability to combine form, function, and full-color branding.

Why Choose Printable Glassfibre Wallcoverings?

• Incredibly strong and tear-resistant

• Resistant to mold, mildew, and moisture

• Highly breathable — won’t trap condensation or promote peeling

• Flame-retardant by nature 

• Scratch-resistant and scrubbable

• Long-lasting — often outperforms vinyl in harsh environments

Where Glassfibre Wallcoverings Are Most Commonly Used

• Healthcare facilities (hospitals, clinics, labs)

• Education environments (schools, libraries, universities)

• Kitchens and bathrooms in hospitality and commercial interiors

• Hallways and staircases in apartment complexes or hotels

• Municipal and transport buildings

• Spaces with moisture, wear, or hygiene demands

These are high-performance wallcoverings — ideal for walls that see real use, not just decoration.

Print Compatibility & Handling Tips

Ink systems:

• Best results with latex and UV-curable inks

• Solvent is not typically recommended due to coating limitations

• White ink layering can be used for texture effects on some versions

Handling tips:

• Print at lower speeds if needed to prevent ink pooling in woven texture

• Allow proper curing and drying — fibers can retain heat slightly longer

• Store flat or rolled in clean, dry areas — avoid excessive bending or folding

Installation:

• Paste-the-wall or traditional wall adhesive methods

• Some glassfibre materials require special adhesives due to weight

• Seams can be overlapped and double-cut for a seamless finish

Certifications and Performance Specs

Most glassfibre wallcoverings come with:

• EN13501-1 & ASTM E84 flame resistance

• Washability and scrubbability ratings

• VOC compliance (GREENGUARD, A+ rating)

• Long-term lifecycle guarantees (5–10+ years in commercial installs)

Use platforms like Substrate Bank to confirm certified specs by product.

hings to Watch Out For

• Not all printers can handle heavier, stiffer substrates — check your media feed and pinch roller specs

• Installation requires trained personnel due to material weight and thickness

• Surface prep is essential — apply only to clean, sealed walls

Conclusion: Tough on the Outside, Print-Ready on the Surface

Printable glassfibre wallcoverings offer architectural-grade durability with the creative freedom of full-color digital print. They’re ideal for demanding environments where safety, hygiene, and longevity matter just as much as design.

Because in commercial interiors, a wallcovering shouldn’t just look good — it should perform.