Strength aud variety

Press, 22 October 1980, Page 13

Strength aud variety

A fibreglass pool uses a combination of three materials. A polyester resin is impregnated with layers of glass fibre, called laminate. Over this is the gelcoat which' is a thin layer of resin. .... Together, these form a material as strong 'as structural steel. In fact, for design certificate purposes it is regarded as slightly stronger than steel -of the same thickness.. These materials are formed into the shape of

the pool mould and then cured to ensure a smooth, hard-wearing surface. In the past, shape and size have been limited by, transportation and a selection of standard moulds. These problems have now been overcome by the use of fibreglass sheets. These are up to 60m long and can be formed into any shape. ■•■ Once the hole is dug, the sheet is placed and moulded on site to the de-, sired shape and size before the. base is poured in. .’. .. ; ,

The choice of colours is also wide open. Fibreglass pools can be manufactured in many colours by the introduction of dyes to the gel-coat of the interior finish. With a swing to more natural effects for pools, browns, greens and even black complement a pool setting. They also absorb solar heat. For the confirmed handyman, a complete do-it-yourself ’‘package’’ can save the pool buyer up .to $lOOO.