When deciding to buy a pool, customers often think that it is best to abandon the inexpensive composite one by settling on concrete structures. Even though their price is so high, they are reliable and durable. To what extent does this bias correspond to reality?
About composite pools
Such artificial reservoirs have different names, which confuses the buyer more. But fiberglass, fiberglass, fiberglass, coke-polyester are the same thing. Made in the form of a solid fiberglass bowl, mounted in a pit.
It consists of several layers that help to protect against external damage, distribute the load evenly, give strength, etc. For example, the first layer is a gelcoat, which sets the color of the product. It is made from epoxy resin with a dye. It is intended not only for aesthetics, but also has a protective function.
Why are stiffeners needed
When the outside temperature drops and the soil freezes by 1.5 meters, the effect of frosty squeezing appears. This subsequently leads to deformation of the structures. To avoid this, the following solution was invented – equipping composite bowls with stiffening ribs. When frost heaving occurs, they compensate for the pressure, taking on the entire load.
Debunking the myths about composite pools
- They are unreliable. Due to their elasticity, they are able to withstand heavy loads and are shockproof. If, for example, we compare them with concrete structures, the latter are inferior to fiberglass by 17 times, which is reflected in special tests. Its reliability is confirmed by the fact that the material from which they are made is used in the manufacture of yacht hulls.
- Composite bowls are unstable. Only those users who have turned to unscrupulous firms can face such a problem. High-quality hydraulic structures are manufactured according to certain standards, which avoid subsidence and help to strengthen the structure.
- Installation can be done by yourself. Yes, the installation of such pools is very simple, an ordinary foreman can handle such work. Despite this, you need to understand that the installation process requires some knowledge and skills. If you do not have experience in this matter, it is better to turn to professionals, as you may miss important points that may come around and cause inconvenience in the future.
- They are inconvenient to use, as the surface is slippery and subject to external influences. The materials from which the bowl is made are considered to be resistant to damage, unlike concrete. They also withstand chemical exposure well, the influence of ultraviolet radiation. And to achieve an anti-slip effect, a special layer is made at the bottom of the pool.
- Cannot be mounted in a building. The composite pool can be installed both indoors and outdoors. But it is important to understand that it is difficult to mount it in an already finished structure. An artificial reservoir must be built with the house.
- Composite bowls sink. Such a problem may indeed be present. But, if the space under the seats and steps is filled with sand, this can be avoided. In this case, it is important that no voids remain. Regular sand will not work, you only need river sand. Such a measure will prevent the pool from sinking and extend the service life.
- Low price. This stereotype has developed because we compare the cost of a bowl with the cost of installing, for example, a concrete hydraulic structure. If you make a full estimate, you can see that the difference is small.
- Another myth associated with price is the inexpensive maintenance of a composite pool. In this regard, it will also not differ much from other types of artificial reservoirs. The main reason is that the cost depends on how often you bathe, how you care.
- No preservation is required for a composite pool. A similar opinion could be formed because the fiberglass bowls are frost-resistant. In fact, any hydraulic structure is subject to conservation, but this must be done on time. If you start this process too early, it is possible that algae overgrowth and even special means will not help. This advice, by the way, applies to all types of pool.
Pros and cons of fiberglass bowls
- This is not to say that this is the ideal solution in all plans – to install a composite pool, as it has its drawbacks:
- A frequent argument in favor of such bowls is the warranty period of more than 50 years. But it is difficult to verify such information for authenticity, because they appeared on the market not so long ago;
- Despite the strength of the material, microcracks may appear on the surface of the pool. This leads to dark spots. Also, over time, microorganisms arise in these lesions;
- It is difficult, almost impossible to install this type of pool in a finished room;
- Composite bowls are sold ready-made. More often, the buyer chooses from what is, and the proposed options are not always suitable;
- It will be difficult and problematic to install without the help of builders.
Still, fiberglass pools have more advantages:
- quick installation work, the installation will not take months;
- withstands harsh conditions, for example, a sharp drop in temperature, groundwater. Suitable for those who have water bodies nearby;
- easy to maintain and take care of, as the surface is not subject to chemical attack, decay and corrosion. Able to withstand exposure to alkalis, acids;
- simple repair, the price of which is low for the user;
- the low weight of the bowl;
- strong material that can withstand mechanical stress;
- monolithic structure, effectively avoiding water leakage.