Q Are fibreglass pools stronger than conventional concrete or gunnite pools?
A The key phrase here is ‘flexible strength’. Only factory pre-formed fibreglass units successfully combine strength and flexibility to allow you the option of sitting your pool in almost any soil condition and on ground not suitable for conventional pools.

Q Can a GRP pool ‘pop out’?
A Any pool or underground sited structure, such as a storage tank, can ‘pop out’. However, in the unlikely event of ‘pop out’, the flexible strength of a fibreglass pool will ensure that it is not irreparable damaged (which is not the case with most other types of pool construction). It is important to note that most pool ‘pop out’ results from a floating action in high water table conditions. Therefore NO POOL SHOULD EVER BE LEFT EMPTY. Always get professional advice before you empty your pool.

Q Is a fibreglass pool leak proof?
A If it is pre-formed in the factory, the answer is yes. A factory manufactured fibreglass pool does not have any seams or joints, which means that it is ultra strong and cannot leak. It’s an assurance every reputable fibreglass pool manufacturer is prepared to give.

Q Is a fibreglass pool any more costly to maintain and keep clean?
A On the contrary, a pre-formed fibreglass pool is significantly less costly to clean and maintain. Compared to a concrete or gunnite pool, your monthly bill for pool chemicals could be reduced considerably. And the satin-smooth surface of a fibreglass pool means it is child’s play to keep clean. There are no seams or crevices in the walls or floors in which dust or debris can be lodged, making routine cleaning a quick and effortless operation.

Q Can you use salt water chlorination in a fibreglass pool?
A Most certainly. This is the trend in Australia where it has been proved that GRP pools are the perfect partner to salt chlorination.

Q What about algae and staining?
A The smooth, non-porous surface of a fibreglass pool eliminates algae infestation and permanent stains.

Q If factory pre-formed fibreglass pools are smooth, aren’t they slippery?
A A non-slip finish, introduced at the factory manufacturing stage, eliminates the danger of skidding or sliding on a glass fibre pool.

Q Will a fibreglass pool fade?
A The chance of a fibreglass pool fading or discolouring are negligible as professional pool makers only use the highest quality gelcoat (approved by Lloyds and the South African Bureau of Standsards). And as all mosaics and tiles are impregnated in the fibreglass, there’s nothing to break or fall off.

Q How hygienic is a pre-formed fibreglass pool?
A This is an important aspect of owning a pool. The good news is that the non-porous surface of a fibreglass pool dramatically reduces the risk of bacterial build-up.

Q Are there any problems with the installation of a fibreglass pool?
A All fibreglass pools, pre-formed in the factory by reputable and approved manufacturers, are delivered on-site as a single entity. As a result, installation is super-fast and the mess and inconvenience usually associated with traditional building techniques, is avoided.

Q Are all fibreglass pools constructed to the same standards?
A A good point. Before ordering a GRP pool, check that the manufacturer has a reputation in the industry for service and workmanship. A visit to the factory to satisfy yourself is a good idea.
For your guidance, the standards used for GRP pools are:
• SABS 0209 – 1986
• NSPI Specifications and Code of Practice for the manufacture and installation of GRP swimming pools.

Q Does having a fibreglass pool limit me to a choice of size or shape?
A fibreglass pool suppliers have a portfolio of popular pool sizes and shapes, which satisfy most homeowners. There is no limitation to the shape of a fibreglass pool, but as with any pool installation, an irregular or unusual design could increase the initial cost of the pool.

Q What is the expected lifespan of a fibreglass pool?
A The oldest single moulded fibreglass pool on record in South Africa is sited in Cape Town. It is more than 26 years old, and it is still in excellent condition. As GRP Technology develops, so the expected lifespan of your fibreglass pool increases. An indication of just how long lasting comes from researchers in Ohio, USA who recently unearthed a fibreglass underground gasoline tank and subjected it to extensive laboratory teating. Their conclusion: the tank was effectively unchanged from when it was installed as a new unit.

Q How easy is it to obtain finance for a fibreglass pool?
A A recent survey of building societies and banks reflected that there is no discrimination between fibreglass pools and gunnite or concrete pools when it comes to obtaining home loan finance. Significantly, several of the building societies surveyed indicated that they preferred to finance a fibreglass pool as the experience had shown that these installations were less susceptible to damage or leaking, particularly when sited in relatively unstable soils or in hilly terrain.