Understanding Fiberglass Pool In Detail

There is a specific kind of swimming pool constructed from a single piece structure. It is constructed in the factory and then comes in a single piece for installation within the house boundary or specified place. The pool structure is made from fibreglass material and hence the name.

A fibreglass pool takes less time to get installed. If compared to the closest competitor, a vinyl liner pool comes with metal or plastic wall panels, vermiculite or grout pool bottom, and vinyl liner placed at the top. On the other hand, there is also a more expensive option in the form of concrete pool settings that features steel bar cages being encased in pure concrete coverings of plaster.  Fibreglass pools of the highest quality will feature shells comprising of 6 different layers of fibreglass, all being melded together to provide the ultimate finishing and toughness. 

Speaking of Fibreglass pool designs, the shell will be near about ⅜ inches in terms of thickness. Now, if you are comparing this with the thickness of a concrete pool, you will find it around 5-6 inches (quite massive in comparison to the fibreglass counterpart) and that would include the rebar too. For vinyl liner pools, the wall panels will be around 4” in thickness.

Focusing on the mold

When it comes to the mold construction for pools made of fibreglass, the part is handled in the manufacturing unit. Due to this reason, you will stand low when it comes to dealing with options related to customization of the shape and size.  Good quality fibreglass pools are manufactured with the best of options and elements. The molds are made from the highest form of fibreglass and then steel bars are being reinforced into them for added toughness.  The question is: whether the mold has smooth and maintained finish? Is it true and level? All of these factors define the quality of the pool.

Handling the gel coat

Pools made of fibreglass have a certain gel coat finishing. The inside finish is applied as a gel and the hardening happens through chemical bonding polymerization. It promises super smoothness and assures high durability. It is also algae resistant and low on maintenance efforts. 

The resin

Whenever applying chopped fibreglass, mixing is done with either polyester resin or vinyl ester resin. This resin is used as an adhesive in order to let the fibreglass stick properly to the surrounding layers of the shell. In simple words, the resin can be described as the glue to the fibreglass. Once mixed and then applied, it helps in keeping up with the correct shape and appropriate support. 

Dual stages

When considering installing a fibreglass pool, the steps involved are shorter than usual. Basically, there are two steps involved:

1. Manufacturing
2. Installation

As already discussed, a fibreglass pool will be constructed fully in the factory unit. They will come well-constructed in one unit and will be directly installed, thus saving a whole lot of time. It takes a few days to weeks for the entire installation part to get completed.