Is fibreglass a viable option for pool resurfacing?

While fibreglass is not a new product – it has been used in pools in the U.S. for 35 years – it is just beginning to gain popularity in Canada.

The application of fibreglass is technical in nature, which is why it was less viable in the past. But this same technology is now more widely available to pool operators. It is very versatile and can be applied over steel and concrete. It bonds well to both substrates due to the special preparation techniques employed.

Fibreglass has many benefits. It is structural in nature, making it ideal for repairing cracked and leaking pools. It can be applied quickly, assuring a short facility downtime and the rapid return to service immediately following the application. Fibreglass does not flake, peel or chip like some products – or become rough and stained like cement-based materials. The surface is inert, which reduces chemical consumption and makes chemicals more efficient. In fact, it provides an overall reduction in pool operating costs.

With fibreglass, the pool maintains excellent water clarity and aesthetic appeal over the life span of the surface. Additionally, the application is very clean. It requires no sandblasting around the facility. Fibreglass has a smooth, dense, non-porous surface that prevents algae from adhering to it or rebar stains from appearing. The cure time is fast, and start-up is cheaper and less complicated than traditional materials. In hot water spas, it will not spall or get rough because it is unaffected by high temperatures. It can be applied to any shape or size pool, and does not have to be sized like vinyl material.

Peter Gibson is a specifying/corrosion engineer with GRC Fiberglass Coatings.