Fiberglass
Fiberglass
The Unique Molecular properties of Fiberglass Make it the Ideal Structural Material for Repairing:
Pool Cracks
Commercial Pools
All Types of Pool Shells
What is Fiberglass?
5 Layers of Strength
Gel Coat———————
Vinyl Ester Resin———————
Woven Roving———————
2 Layers Chopped Fiberglass———————
2 Layers Chopped Fiberglass
Woven Roving
Vinyl Ester Resin Plus Gel Coat
Fiberglass material being installed to the interior surface of a swimming pool has Modernized the swimming pool resurfacing industry
Which Interior Resurface Material Type Is Right For Your Swimming Pool or Spa?
Plaster
A Natural Porous Finish
4,500 PSI
Composite
As smooth as an egg shell. Stronger & More Durable Compared To Plaster & Mini Pebble.
18,000 PSI
Pebble
We install all types of aggregate and pebble finishes.
8,500 PSI
We install all types of resurfacing materials; plaster, pebble, fiberglass. We do not push our customers to go with one option or the other.
Here are the facts that make each resurface material different:
Composite
vs.
Plaster
Composite
Plaster
Stains
Fiberglass offers resistance to stains with its easy-to-clean surface.
Little resistance to stains and blemishes even if the surface has been recently applied.
Stains
Composite: Fiberglass offers resistance to stains with its easy-to-clean surface.
Algae Resistance
The smooth, dense, non-porous surface of fiberglass prevents algae from adhering.
Algae adheres to porous surfaces.
Algae Resistance
Composite: The smooth, dense, non-porous surface of fiberglass prevents algae from adhering.
Plaster: Algae adheres to porous surfaces.
Chemical Demand
Noticeable reduction in chemical usage due to the inert nature of fiberglass. Makes pool chemicals more efficient.
Plaster and Pebble Tec require a high demand for chemicals at all times. It is a reactive surface.
Chemical Demand
Composite: Noticeable reduction in chemical usage due to the inert nature of fiberglass. Makes pool chemicals more efficient.
Attractiveness
Fiberglass maintains its attractive appearance.
Becomes unsightly when stained or deteriorated.
Attractiveness
Composite: Fiberglass maintains its attractive appearance.
Durability
The superior corrosion-resistant and inert properties of fiberglass ensure exceptional durability.
Depends on application. Re-plastering often separates from the original surface due to poor adhesion. Material limitations reduce the durability of plaster and Pebble Tec.
Durability
Composite: The superior corrosion-resistant and inert properties of fiberglass ensure exceptional durability.
Water Chemistry
The inert surface of fiberglass is less sensitive to out-of-balance water chemistry.
Very sensitive to incorrect water chemistry. Plaster surface is easily compromised.
Water Chemistry
Composite: The inert surface of fiberglass is less sensitive to out-of-balance water chemistry.
Life Expectancy
Exceeds that of Plaster and Pebble Tec. Time tested with 25 years industry experience.
Varies. Depends on water chemistry, maintenance regime, plaster mix, and application technique.
Life Expectancy
Composite: Exceeds that of Plaster and Pebble Tec. Time tested with 25 years industry experience.
Leachable
Materials
Due to the inert nature of fiberglass, no leachable material is available to cause roughness. The surface remains smooth.
Salts / Plaster constituents will adhere and create a very abrasive surface.
Leachable
Materials
Composite: Due to the inert nature of fiberglass, no leachable material is available to cause roughness. The surface remains smooth.
Startup
Simple. No brushing needed. Allow the fiberglass to cure and then start up.
Plaster and Pebble Tec requires brushing and attention.
Compare Surface Materials
Fiberglass is reinforced and better than plaster (higher strength and durability)
Composite is a cleaner installation although it requires more skill to handle
Plaster requires a truck with a long hoses and other pieces of equipment
Composite and mini pebble are easiest to maintain
Advantages of Plaster |
Disadvantages of Plaster |
|---|---|
Classic appearance |
Prone to cracking and etching |
Initial cost is lower |
Requires more frequent resurfacing |
Smooth texture |
May require more chemicals to maintain |
Advantages of Mini Pebble |
Disadvantages of Mini Pebble |
|---|---|
Natural, textured appearance |
Can be rough on the skin |
Improved durability compared to plaster |
More expensive than plaster |
Resists stains and etching |
May require more maintenance |
Advantages of Composite (Over Plaster and Mini Pebble) |
Disadvantages of Composite |
|---|---|
Exceptional durability and longevity |
Higher initial cost |
Low maintenance and fewer chemicals |
May have limited color options |
Smooth and comfortable surface |
Requires professional installation |
Resists cracking, staining, and etching |
Soil Movement Can Cause Plaster and Pebble Finishes to Crack
Fiberglass Resists Cracking
Why Not Paint?
We are not 100% certain as to why paint does not hold up in pools or spas or fountains.
We theorize paint is not a suitable resurfacing material due to the following reasons:
Paint applied to a fountain or pool surface may deteriorate due to constant water movement, harsh or standard chemicals used to maintain the water’s chemistry, sun or weather related damage, the fountain or pool surface being exposed to sunlight without water covering it, inconsistent water treatment or maintenance, abrasive brushes rubbed on the fountain or pool surface, poor workmanship when applying the paint product, poor quality paint product, or paint material and surface not being compatible.
While there are better paint based products compared to others – based on our experience the life span for most pool related paint products are extremely minimal for commercial or residential fountains or pools or spas.
Fiberglass Advantages
Durability: Fiberglass has greater durability than plaster or pebble surfaces
Heat Resistance: Especially important for commercial installations where water is heated 24/7
Algae Resistance: Making pool easier to maintain
Easy Maintenance: No floor brushing or water balancing required
Stain Resistant: Any surface stains are easier to remove than with plaster or pebble surfaces- Prevents Copper Staining
Cures Without Water: The fiberglass is already cured by the time water goes in
More Advantages
Smooth Surface
Composite fiberglass surfaces have a smoother feel than plaster. Due to the inert nature of fiberglass, no leachable/extractable material is available to cause roughness. The surface remains smooth.
Crack Prevention
Prevents most or all pool shell cracks from showing
Prevent water loss due to cracks
Color Options
Multiple color options are available.
PSI Protection
Fiberglass Has The Highest PSI protection out of all interior swimming pool or spa surface materials
Convenience
Once fully dry, pool can be filled and you are ready to swim. Compare this with a 30 day wait for plaster or mini pebble
Less Porous
Fiberglass is less porous than plaster, which contributes to easy maintenance.
Waterproofing
Composite waterproofs the entire swimming pool
Water Temperature
8 to 10 degrees warmer
Crack Repairs
When cracks are present in the swimming pool shell-composite is the only option.
Faster Installation
Lower Lifetime Cost
No liner replacement or resurfacing needed
Corrosion Resistance
Structural Strength
Superior tensile strength of composite material, ideal for pools with structural problems.
Algae Stains
Black algae cannot adhere to fiberglass. Rebar stains cannot bleed through.
Rust Stains
Resists rust stains from rebar
Copper Stains
Fiberglass resists staining from copper piping
Life Expectancy
Not subject to water or chemical corrosion. Longevity exceeds that of cement-based specialty/aggregate plasters
Long Term Aesthetics
Excellent water clarity and sparkling appearance. Superior aesthetics over the life of the surface.
Comfort
NO scratched feet or toes
Structural Cracks
Fiberglass adds structural strength to the pool shell and prevents leaking.
15 Year Warranty
The odds of fractures or deep cracks showing or becoming visible through your swimming pool interior surface is dramatically lowered. While we cannot guarantee cracks will not appear or show we can say we have never seen a crack reappear within our warranty time frame .
The very nature of composite materials implies that a more comprehensive, realistic warranty is offered.
Schedule Maintenance 1-2 Days After Pool is Full
Get ph to right level
Turn pump on
Ready to swim
Can start heating asap
Compare to plaster or mini pebble 30 days for mini pebble
Our Process
First Coat: A coat of resin is applied as a primer (Roll-On)
Second Coat: Resin Plus Fiberglass (Roll-On)
Third Coat: Resin is applied (Roll-On)
Foutth Coat: Gel Coat (Color is added in this step)
Fifth Coat: Final Coat (Sprayed On)
Our Process
First Coat
A coat of resin is applied as a primer (Roll-On)
Second Coat
Resin Plus Fiberglass (Roll-On)
Third Coat
Resin is applied (Roll-On)
Fourth Coat
Gel Coat (Color is Added in this step)
Fifth Coat
Final Coat (Sprayed On)
Fiberglass Application
Sprayed or Rolled
Lights and Drains
Pool Light and drains are installed after spray next day
Between Coats
Surface is sanded between each coat
Note:
Fiberglass should not be exposed to the sun past 2-4 days the fiberglass is dry
Drying
Need to wait for fiberglass to be 100% dry before putting water in the swimming pool
*Please note: warmer days like summer we wait 1 day
If it’s colder we wait 2-3 days
For all Fiberglass Jobs we Take the Following Steps:
1. Treat all Visibile Flaws and Cracks
2. Apply First Primer Coat of Isophalic Resin
3. Laminate Total Area with Fiberglass Mat and Resin
4. Apply Third Coat of Isophalic Resin
5. Apply the Final Coat of Gel
What is Gel Coat?
Uses
Gel coating, also known as gelcoat, is a type of surface coating commonly used on the interior surfaces of swimming pools, as well as on boats and other fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) structures.
Benefits
It serves several purposes, including enhancing the appearance of the pool, protecting the underlying materials, and providing a smooth, water-resistant surface.
Our Novel Process For Crack Repair
What is Recommended
Expose Cracks
Install Staples Every 6 In
Use 6500 psi hydraulic cement
Coat with Fiberglass
Your one stop solution for Cracked or damaged swimming pool shells
Treat all visible flaws & cracks
Apply first primer coat of Isophalic resin
Laminate total area with fiberglass mat and resin
Apply third coat of Isophalic resin
Apply final coat of gel
Add composite behind waterline tiles if existing tiles are being replaced
We Intall Hydrostatic Valves
These special valves are used if the pool has been empty or if there are aggressive leaks present.
In addition, we place SDX covers over the hydrostatic valves we install.
See it in Action!
Crack Repair
Expose Cracks
Install Staples Every 6 In
Use 6500 psi hydraulic cement
Coat with Fiberglass
Treat all visible flaws & cracks
Apply first primer coat of Isophalic resin
Laminate total area with fiberglass mat and resin
Apply third coat of Isophalic resin
Apply final coat of gel
Add composite behind waterline tiles if existing tiles are being replaced
Fiberglass Services
We fiberglass all common outside surfaces
Swimming pools
Vinyl pools or above ground pools or manufactured pools
Fountains
Remodeling
Spas
Planter Boxes
Anti-Slip Surfaces
Decks, Steps
Diving Boards
Steps For Ladders
Fiberglass Repair
Kevlar reinforced crack repair
Solutions for pools with structural tile problem
Glass Coat
Guarenteed to Outlast & Outperform Other Materials
Pigment integral glass/polymer matrix Glasscoat Layer 2
Fiberglass Eliminates
Cracks and Leaks
Algae and Staining
Rough Surfaces
Discoloration
High Chemical Usage
Rebar Stains
Plaster Problems
Pool Conditions |
Plaster |
Glass Coat |
|---|---|---|
ROUGH SURFACES |
As plaster wears, roughness increases. Quartz and pebble plaster becomes rough with age. |
Always smooth. No scratched feet. |
STRUCTURAL CRACKS |
Any substantial pool movement can cause cracks and leaks. |
Adds structural strength to pool shell. Prevents leaking |
BLEMISHES & STAINS |
Little resistance to stains and blemishes, even if surface has been recently applied. |
Resistance to stains, with easily cleaned surface. |
ALGAE RESISTANCE |
Algae adheres to porous surface. |
Smooth, dense, non-porous surface prevents algae from adhering. |
CHEMICAL DEMAND |
High chemical requirement at all times. Reactive surface. |
Noticeable reduction in chemical usage due to the inert nature of Glasscoat. Makes pool chemicals more efficient. |
APPEARANCE |
Unsightly when stained/ deteriorated. |
Maintains attractive appearance. |
DURABILITY |
Depends on application. Replaster often separates from original surface (poor adhesion). Material limitations reduce the durability of plaster. |
The superior corrosion resistant and inert properties of Glasscoat ensure exceptional durability. |
WATER CHEMISTRY |
Very sensitive to incorrect water chemistry. Plaster surface easily compromised. |
Inert surface less sensitive to out-of-balance water chemistry – a very forgiving surface. |
WARRANTY |
Because of material limitations, very limited warranty offered (workmanship only). |
Applied by specialists. More comprehensive warranty offered. |
LIFE EXPECTANCY |
Varies and depends on water chemistry, maintenance regime, plaster mix and application technique. Average is 5–7 years. |
Far exceeds service life of plaster. Time tested with 30 years industry experience. |
START-UP |
complicated. Requires brushing and attention. |
Simple. No brushing needed. Allow to cure, then start-up. |
Smooth Non-Porous Texture
Learn More
Simple, more cost effective startup; no brushing or tending needed
Commercial Fiberglass Pools
No large amounts of water required like plaster
Mobile – easy to apply on any floor of any sized sky scraper vs. plaster or mini pebble
FAQs
I have a fiberglass pool in need of repair, can you help me?
Absolutely! call us today to have someone come out and inspect the problem and tell you what can be done.
Visit the Contact Us page
How is fiberglass superior to any other surface?
It is well established that fiberglass is far superior to any other pool surface. Fiberglass lasts much longer than plaster or pebble surfaces, eliminating the need to resurface over and over through out the life of the pool. Fiberglass is smooth eliminating painful skin abrasions, and virtually non-porous making it virtually impossible for algae to get a foot-hold, unlike that of plaster or pebble surface. In addition fiberglass can save you 30% to 50% on chemicals.
What affect do chemicals have on fiberglass?
We use a premium highly corrosive resistant resin that can be used to make containers to store corrosive chemicals. However, chemicals such as pool acid and chlorine over time will attack and break down a plaster surface and pebble surfaces.
What if I have a vinyl liner pool?
Vinyl liner pools can rip, tear and fade and are subject to puncturing. A permanent easy solution to this is to have your pool fiber-glassed.
How long does fiberglass last?
Fiberglass comes with a limited-lifetime warranty from peeling, cracking or chipping of fiberglass.
How much does fiberglass cost?
The easiest way to find out is to Contact Us for a free estimate.
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CPR Pools
C-53 Contractor License No. 1098868
14320 Ventura Blvd. #204
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Call Us at 818-792-5020
How To Contact Us
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