The Differences Between Fibreglass and Marbelite

So, you’ve decided to add the ultimate summer investment to your home – a swimming pool. But you’ve probably heard many a debate on whether to use fibreglass or marbelite. Let’s discuss the differences.

Choosing between the two will depend on a number of things such as the size, depth, the shape you want your pool to be, the type of ground it’s going to be installed in, and, of course, how much you’re willing to invest.

Here is a guide to the pros and cons of both to help you make an informed decision.

 Marbelite

Marbelite pools are created using coloured marble plaster and cement.

Because it has a porous finish, dirt and algae are more prone to attach to the walls of a marbelite pool than those of a fibreglass pool. This means that marbelite pools require a bit more TLC to be kept in top condition.

If built correctly and maintained with proper care, you can expect a marbelite pool to last for about 15 years until you need to re-marbelite.

Pros

• Customisable in terms of unique shapes
• Non-slippery surface
• Able to customise the pool with ceramic mosaics
• It allows for a wide variety of colour finishes

Cons

• Surfaces become rough over time
• Due to the porous finish, algae is able to attach itself to surfaces more easily
• Chemical mismanagement can lead to discolouration of the surfaces

Fibreglass

With fibreglass pools, the structure is built and then finished with a coating of fibreglass pool coat, making them non-porous and ideal for those looking for a basic, functional pool that requires the least amount of maintenance.

If installed correctly, a fibreglass pool could easily last up to 30 years. However, they do need a top-coat replacement every 20 years.

Pros

• Requires fewer chemicals
• Non-porous
• Easier to treat algae growth
• Able to use chemicals and pool cleaners 72 hours after construction

Cons

• Slippery surface
• Have a higher acidic level
• If not applied correctly, will de-laminate and detach itself from the wall

Do you have an existing pool but are unsure if it is fibreglass or marbelite? This is important to know in order to determine certain chemical dosages such as Aqua Pro Alkalinity Booster. The recommended range for Total Alkalinity in a pool differs for fibreglass and marbelite, being between 120 – 150 ppm (parts per million) for fibreglass and 80 – 120 ppm for marbelite.

Let’s have a look at how to identify your pool surface in order to maintain it correctly.

There are two ways to tell if your pool is marbelite or fibreglass:

• Marbelite and fibreglass differ in their texture. If the pool surface has a rough, plaster-like feel, it is likely marbelite whereas if it feels smooth then it is fibreglass.
• The two surfaces also require different types of mosaics. If your mosaics are ceramic then your pool would be marbelite whereas fibreglass pools would have a mosaic that is made from tissue fibres with a pattern printed onto it. Fibreglass mosaics do not protrude and cannot be felt like a ceramic tile can. They are flat as if they are part of the fibreglass coating.

Still not sure which option to choose or how to tell what you have? Contact a professional at any of The Pool Team stores for further advice on your personal marbelite and fibreglass solution.