The Fiberglass Reinforced Resin Pool Coating

The Fiberglass Reinforced Resin Pool Coating forms a durable, waterproof shell that seamlessly conforms to the contours of your pool, free from wrinkles, creases, seams, or other structural weaknesses.
The Gelcoat finish not only simplifies maintenance but also enhances the water’s color, creating a visually stunning effect. Applied through pool lamination, this reinforced resin effectively addresses the limitations and challenges associated with traditional pool liners. Quote.
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What is a fiberglass reinforced resin pool coating?

The fiberglass reinforced polyester resin pool coating is an innovative waterproofing solution designed to address the challenges of traditional coatings such as plaster, paint, and mosaic tiles. It also overcomes the technical limitations of membranes like vinyl liners and reinforced PVC.

Detail of the polyester coating without folds, sealed under coping stones
The reinforced resin, with its fluid and continuous elegance, fuses seamlessly under the coping stones

Characteristics and Implementation

This composite pool coating owes its exceptional strength to the process of lamination— a technique that combines polyester resin with a reinforcement material, fiberglass. Applied in successive layers, the liquid resin saturates the fiberglass, bonding together as it hardens in the open air to form a thick, durable and seamless structure. The same lamination technique is widely used in the construction of pleasure boat hulls, showcasing its versatility and proven effectiveness. The strength of fiberglass-reinforced polyester resin is derived from several key characteristics inherent to this composite material:

Mechanical Resistance: The unique composition of this approximately 3.5 millimeters thick shell gives it remarkable resilience against mechanical stresses, including the risks of punctures, tears, and acts of vandalism to which flexible Vinyl Liners may be exposed.
Chemical Resistance: Polyester resin offers excellent chemical resistance, notably to saltwater and chlorine. This resistance results in a coating that does not easily degrade over time, unlike flexible PVC materials that can deform due to a temporary chemical imbalance in the water.
Resistance to Deformation: The sturdy fiberglass shell remains unaffected by repeated foot traffic from swimmers and withstands temperature variations without deforming.

Aesthetics

The liquid application of resin provides exceptional flexibility, allowing the coating to conform seamlessly to even the most intricate shapes and fine details. This process ensures a superior aesthetic finish while maintaining the highest standards of functionality.
From an aesthetic perspective, traditional options like vinyl liners and reinforced PVC membranes have certain limitations that reinforced resin can effectively overcome:

The Vinyl Liner

A Vinyl Liner is a flexible membrane made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) that lines the interior of the pool, providing a waterproof barrier. It is custom-fabricated to fit the shape and dimensions of the pool and is installed as a single piece that rests against the pool’s walls and floor.
Since the liner is not permanently bonded to the structure, it may develop folds, creases, or wrinkles, particularly in corners, curves, or areas with steps. These imperfections can become more noticeable over time and may trap dirt and debris.
While vinyl liners offer a budget-friendly waterproofing solution, they are more susceptible to punctures, tears, and fading compared to more durable options like fiberglass-reinforced resin coatings.

Reinforced PVC

Reinforced PVC is thicker than a traditional vinyl liner and is installed using pre-cut strips that are welded together through thermal fusion. However, this process creates a unique challenge: the seams.
Over time, impurities can accumulate along these welds, causing the seams to become more prominent and creating visible lines. Although arranging the welds thoughtfully during installation can help to reduce the visibility of these lines, it does not completely eliminate the issue.

Pool coating in light blue resin with swim lanes
A reinforced resin coating ensures aesthetic enhancement of each pool's unique shapes

Suitable for Freeform Pools

The unique properties of reinforced resin enable a high-end coating that smoothly adapts to the fluid shapes of freeform pools, avoiding the need for traditional joints found between tiles or seams seen in reinforced PVC membranes.
The absence of these potential weak points results in a seamless, wrinkle-free appearance and enhances the durability of the pool surface.

The fiberglass reinforced resin coating allows for optimal coverage of stairs and gutters
Reinforced resin achieves absolute conformity to the most complex shapes and reliefs

This coating excels in its ability to seamlessly conform to intricate features such as fittings, gutters, and stairs. The Gelcoat finish provides a smooth, uniform surface that minimizes the risk of algae and dirt buildup, even in hard-to-clean corners.
Its adaptability ensures that maintenance remains easy, regardless of the pool's complex shapes or elaborate contours.

Pool coating in polyester resin with smooth gelcoat
The Resin coating's smooth Gelcoat finish facilitates maintenance and cleaning

Enhancing Old Pools

The polyester resin coating gives pool owners the flexibility to implement structural upgrades easily. Adding corner stairs is achievable without creating vulnerable seams that could compromise aesthetics and waterproofing. Constructed from concrete blocks, the stairs are integrated into the pool's structure and encapsulated within a fiberglass-reinforced resin shell.
This rigid, non-deformable shell conforms precisely to the shape of the stairs, providing a smooth and uniform finish. It adapts to any shape, filling and covering the roughness of concrete surfaces, making it an ideal choice for renovations and projects with complex or custom designs.

Construction of a staircase before applying the polyester coating
Construction of a staircase before applying the reinforced resin coating
The polyester coating reinforces the pool structure
The reinforced resin forms a rigid shell conforming to the shape of the steps

Waterproofing of Fittings

The resin coating effectively seals the junction between the pool's structure and its fittings, ensuring that main drains, skimmers, return inlets, and light fixtures are seamlessly integrated.
For rigid flanges designed for liners, the polyester resin lamination overlaps the fitting’s seat, with the styrene in the resin providing an excellent bond. The rigid flange is then replaced and securely fixed over the polyester coating.
The reinforced resin is compatible with all types of fittings, including skimmers and return inlets, even those without flanges for mosaic pools. In such cases, a specialized resin-based adhesive ensures a reliable and durable seal between the fittings and the coating, guaranteeing long-lasting integration.

Polyester resin coating and waterproofing of return inlets
The resin optimizes the waterproofing of the inlets
Polyester resin coating and skimmer waterproofing
The reinforced resin covers the junction between concrete and skimmer

Water Quality of your Pool

The quality of your pool water relies not only on the filtration system and the correct use of maintenance products but also on the surface of the pool itself. The type of coating used for waterproofing significantly influences how impurities adhere to the pool walls.
Rougher coatings tend to trap more deposits on their surface, while wrinkles can create spaces where dirt accumulates, promoting the growth of algae.

The resin coating perfectly adapts to complex pool shapes
The smooth gelcoat limits impurity deposits and improves water cleanliness

Structurally Independent

When a pool's structure undergoes changes, such as the development of micro-cracks, it can directly affect coatings that rely on the stability of the underlying surface, such as paint, plaster, and tile finishes.
Plaster, for example, is closely tied to the condition of the substrate on which it has been applied. As the surface deteriorates or cracks, the plaster inevitably follows suit, leading to further cracking and potential crumbling. This compromises the pool's waterproofing and often results in frequent and costly repairs.
In contrast, a reinforced resin shell offers a more resilient solution. Similar to a boat hull, it forms a solid, uniform barrier that adheres to the pool's interior while maintaining structural independence. Unlike plaster and tile coatings, the composite nature of reinforced resin often allows it to retain its integrity regardless of changes in the substrate. As a result, it is a more reliable choice for pools where the underlying structure may be prone to weakening over time.

Advantages of the Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester Coating

  • No wrinkles and no seams
  • Faithfully follows all shapes and reliefs
  • Increased resistance to punctures and tears
  • Semi-adherent, structurally independent from the substrate
  • Significant longevity
  • Gelcoat finish with a wide choice of colors
  • Improved cleanliness of the swimming area and water
  • Easy to repair in case of external damage (No patches)
  • Enhancement of old pools
  • Structural improvements (Adding stairs)
  • Neutral pH of the coating (Less need for pH adjustment)

Choosing the Color of Your Gelcoat Finish

Waterproofing your pool with a reinforced resin coating involves several steps, culminating in the application of a Gelcoat layer, followed by the Topcoat. This finish is essential for both protecting the underlying coating and enhancing the pool’s visual appeal.
The color of the Gelcoat is also customizable and plays a significant role in shaping the ambiance of your pool area. Below, we explore the various color options and how they can transform the look and feel of your outdoor space.

RAL for Gelcoat/Topcoat Pool Finish

  • The shades are represented approximately
  • For a 100% faithful representation, consult a color chart available from the specialist
Yellows
RAL 1013
Pearl White
RAL 1014
Ivory
RAL 1015
Light Ivory
Blues
Special 201
Light Blue
Special 2012
Light Blue
RAL 5012
Light Blue
Grays
RAL 7035
Light Gray
Whites
125 Special
White
RAL 9016
Traffic White
RAL 9010
Pure White

What is Gelcoat Finish?

Gelcoat is commonly used to cover fiberglass-reinforced structures, such as laminated pool coatings and boat hulls. It can be applied using a brush, roller, or spray gun, depending on the scale of the project and the desired outcome.
Typically, Gelcoat is applied in two layers: The first layer remains tacky and does not dry when exposed to open air. The second layer, known as the Topcoat, contains paraffin, allowing it to dry in the open air and create the glossy, smooth finish with reflective qualities that are characteristic of pools coated with polyester resin.

The Qualities of Gelcoat

Gelcoat has many advantages:
  • Pleasant to the touch
  • Easy maintenance
  • Wide choice of colors
  • UV resistant, preserves its color over time
  • Excellent resistance to scratches, impacts, and chemicals
  • Minimizes the buildup of algae and other impurities

The Different Pool Color Choices

Gelcoat is available in a wide range of shades and finishes. For instance, light colors can enhance the shadows of surrounding trees, while darker shades create mirror-like reflections on the water. To create a warm and inviting ambiance, it's generally recommended to opt for lighter tones such as Light Blue, Light Gray, Ivory, or White.

Blue Pool: The Market Dominator

The iconic "Light blue" coating color is favored by nearly 70% of pool owners, thanks to the beautiful crystalline hue it imparts to the water, creating a fresh and inviting look.

Pool coating in resin with light blue gelcoat before filling
Reinforced resin coating with light blue gelcoat
Pool with fiberglass reinforced resin coating and light blue gelcoat filled with water
The same pool filled with water
Pool coating in resin with light blue gelcoat
100% winkle free, the Gelcoat enhances the pool's aesthetics.
Pool staircase with light blue gelcoat
Light Blue Gelcoat highlighting the staircase

A pool with a light blue gelcoat finish is ideal for places enjoying optimal sun exposure. In good weather, the sky and sun reflect on its surface, giving it that typical deep hue. In overcast weather or when the shadows of plants and your house reach the pool, the water takes on a magnificent blue tint. Prefer light blue 201 or the slightly darker special 2012.

Pool with polyester lining and blue gelcoat
Lining in resin with dark blue gelcoat
Pool with polyester lining and blue gelcoat filled with water
The pool with its new composite coating filled with water

A reinforced resin coating is particularly suitable for pools with complex-shaped diving pits. These types of pools, with their multiple angles and intricate designs, present significant challenges for waterproofing with traditional coatings. A rigid resin lining resists deformation and reliably maintains its integrity over time.

Ivory Gelcoat (RAL 1015): Bring the Beach to Your Backyard

Transform your pool into a serene, beach-like retreat with the warm, natural tones of Ivory Gelcoat. This soft, sandy hue evokes the calming atmosphere of a tropical shoreline, perfect for creating a tranquil and inviting space. Ideal for both contemporary and traditional settings, This choice of color enhances the reflective qualities of the water, mimicking the peaceful allure of a beach.

Resin coating with ivory gelcoat color
Polyester coating with "Light Ivory" finish (RAL 1015)
Pool with ivory-colored resin coating filled with water
The same pool filled with water

White Gelcoat: A Timeless Choice to Highlight the Water’s Clarity

White is a classic, timeless color that beautifully enhances the crystal-clear quality of the water. When the sky reflects off the surface, it creates a stunning light blue hue, while sunlight passing through the pool makes the water shimmer with sparkling light.
The transparency of the white pool water is so remarkable that you can admire the shadow of its waters dancing across the pool floor.

Pool with polyester coating and white gelcoat
Renovated pool with white gelcoat finish
Pool with polyester coating and white gelcoat filled with water
The sky reflects on the water's surface

White pool water has another quality: it allows you to quickly spot algae starting to grow in your pool. You can thus take the necessary measures before they develop.

Light Gray Gelcoat Finish (RAL 7035): Contemporary Elegance for Indoor or Outdoor Pools

A light gray Gelcoat finish adds a sleek, modern touch to both indoor and outdoor pools. This refined color enhances contemporary spaces with a minimalist vibe and complements rustic designs by blending seamlessly into natural surroundings. Indoors, the light gray tone can amplify the sense of calm and sophistication, offering a polished look that pairs well with any architectural style.
Whether your pool is bathed in sunlight or integrated into an indoor sanctuary, light gray Gelcoat evokes the tranquility of natural watercourses, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a serene yet stylish aesthetic.

Pool after applying the last layer of gray gelcoat
Pool after applying its final layer of Gray gelcoat
Pool with gray gelcoat in a modern environment
Light gray enhances the architecture of a modern environment

Ivory Pool Color (RAL 1014): Feel Like You're by the Sea

For pool owners looking to create an outdoor space that stands out, the Ivory shade offers a bold and innovative choice. This unique color presents a charming alternative to traditional options, transforming your swimming area into more than just a place for relaxation—it becomes an invitation to escape, evoking distant, idyllic beaches.

Pool with sand-colored gelcoat just applied
"Ivory" color gelcoat (RAL 1014) just applied
Polyester pool with sand-colored gelcoat filled with water
Filled with water, the "Ivory" color produces an "Emerald Green" effect

It’s important to note that Ivory differs from colors typically associated with purity and clarity, such as White (RAL 1013) or Light Ivory (RAL 1015). With its warm yellow undertones, Ivory adds depth and warmth to your poolscape. On sunny days, the water takes on a subtle emerald green tint, evoking the natural beauty of tropical waters while maintaining a serene and elegant ambiance.

The atmosphere you create around your pool can be invigorating, relaxing, or even inspire leisurely idleness and swimming. It can also showcase a modern and elegant flair. The essence of this ambiance, however, is greatly influenced by the color of your pool’s coating. The various shades of the Gelcoat finish not only provide an exceptional aesthetic appeal but also significantly enhance the overall atmosphere of your swimming area.

Additionally, the durability and longevity of your pool are closely tied to the quality of the Gelcoat and the precision with which it is applied. Only an experienced professional can ensure a flawless application, marked by meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. For an impeccable finish, request your quote from Revêtement Piscine Polyester, in Paris, France.

Epoxy Resin Pool Coating

High Temperature Resistance

Epoxy resin is highly resistant to elevated temperatures, making it an excellent choice for pools where the water is heated above 30°C. This is particularly relevant for balneotherapy pools, where maintaining high water temperatures is essential.

Odorless Application

Unlike polyester resin, which can emit strong odors during application, epoxy resin is virtually odorless. This makes it a preferred option for locations such as public facilities that remain operational during waterproofing work, where minimizing disruption is important.

Longer Application and Curing Time

While epoxy resin offers several benefits, it requires a longer application process and curing time compared to polyester resin. This extended time frame should be considered when planning pool renovation or waterproofing projects.

A Bit of History on Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester

Introduced in the 1950s, fiberglass reinforced polyester transformed the shipbuilding industry with its remarkable combination of strength and lightness. This composite material gained significant popularity, especially in the 1980s, when it became the material of choice for building pleasure boats. Shipyards around the world embraced polyester and its derivatives due to their superior durability and resistance to harsh marine environments.
The advantages of reinforced polyester extended beyond shipbuilding. Its excellent corrosion resistance, durability against wear, and resilience in demanding aquatic conditions led to its widespread use in other water-related applications, such as manufacturing canoes, kayaks, and surfboards—equipment that must withstand similar conditions to those found at sea.
The material's success eventually reached the pool industry, where its robustness, low maintenance requirements, and aesthetic qualities made it a preferred option for pool coatings. This innovation enabled the industry to meet growing demands for durable, easy-to-maintain, and visually appealing pools.
Today, fiberglass reinforced polyester remains a material of choice for waterproofing pools and ponds, maintaining its position as a trusted choice in various aquatic applications.

Implementation of the Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester Pool Coating

Applying a fiberglass reinforced polyester pool coating begins with cutting fiberglass mats to the exact dimensions of the pool. The substrate is then meticulously prepared through thorough cleaning and mechanical surface preparation, including grinding to create the ideal texture for adhesion. Any holes or cracks are repaired to ensure a smooth surface. An adhesion primer is applied across the entire area, playing a vital role in absorbing residual moisture and ensuring optimal adhesion for the subsequent layers.

Laying the fiberglass
Laying the fiberglass mats on the adhesion primer
Applying successive layers of resin and fiberglass
Applying successive layers of polyester resin and fiberglass

The fiberglass is laid out and impregnated with marine-grade isophthalic anti-electrolysis polyester resin, applied in successive layers. Two layers of fiberglass, fully saturated with the polyester resin, are manually applied to achieve the optimal optimal thickness and waterproofing.

Intermediate surface sanding
Intermediate surface sanding
Applying a first layer of gelcoat
Applying the first layer of Gelcoat

Once the fiberglass layers have hardened, the surface is sanded using a grinder to achieve a smooth, defect-free finish. After grinding, all dust is removed, and the pool is thoroughly cleaned. Finally, a first layer of Gelcoat resin in the chosen color is applied to the surface.

Applying the final gelcoat pool finish layer
Applying the final Topcoat finish layer that completes the waterproofing
The polyester resin coating
Final result: Pool with its new fiberglass polyester resin coating

The final layer of special marine paraffin Topcoat is applied, completing the pool’s waterproofing process. After a 7-day hardening period (allowing time for the solvents in the resin to fully evaporate), the pool is thoroughly rinsed and then filled.

Pool work carried out under a construction shelter. The temperature is maintained at the ideal level with construction heaters
Pool work carried out under shelter with construction heaters

Lamination work is frequently carried out under special shelters. Thus, work is possible all year round. The ambient temperature is maintained at the ideal level using construction heaters.