ABOUT FIBERGLASS

Fiberglass resurfacing has been used in the swimming pool for over 40 years. Applied properly, it is the perfect finish for swimming pools, as it is corrosion-resistant and extremely durable. However the techniques and methods for fiberglass finishes have evolved over these years. There is a vast difference between application methods and materials used.

A BRIEF HISTORY: THE PROBLEMS WITH THE HAND-LAY FIBERGLASS METHOD

The "hand-lay" method for fiberglass pool finishes was used early on in the industry but this technique had its share of problems.  This technique requires the applicators to roll the materials (resin and fiberglass mat) onto the pool surface, using paint rollers. A lot of white pigment is added to the resin, which helps give the appearance of solid coverage. This method does not provide a uniform finish and the finish coat cannot achieve the thickness compared to that of a sprayed-on application. In addition, a hand-mixed catalyst will vary from mix to mix, causing an unevenly cured surface. The hand-lay method is now not as common in the industry, as many applications suffered from poor surface preparation, bond failures with the old surface, and curing problems with the finish.

THE ADVANCED-GLASS DIFFERENCE

Advanced Pool Coatings has addressed these issues in a number of ways. Our process starts with careful, professional and rigorous surface preparation.  We begin disk grinding the surface, filling voids and addressing all loose or hollow plaster areas.  Be careful of companies that simply fiberglass right over old hollow or loose plaster! Many companies skimp on surface preparation and application of the fiberglass lining.  This is a short-sighted approach that provides less value to the customer.  

In 1993 we introduced our bonding barrier coating, a breakthrough technology that assures the best chemical bonding of the Advanced-Glass system to your substrate. This bond coat consists of an unfilled non-pigmented resin barrier coat that is applied directly to the substrate. For more than 25 years, we at Advanced Pool Coatings have been recognized in the industry for providing the most durable and the longest lasting pool finish in the industry.

OUR INVESTMENT IN TECHNOLOGY

Superior technology makes a huge difference when it comes to fiberglass applications. The technology starts with our investment in the best fiberglass chopper guns that are available on the market. Yes, this equipment is expensive, however laminating the fiberglass using the chopper gun allows us to apply approx. 30% more material, adding structural strength to the laminate. Compare this to the thickness of the fiberglass mat (usually 3/4 or 1 oz mat per foot) used by hand-lay applicators. Using our chopper guns, we are not limited to such thin laminations. Our guns also have a reservoir for the catalyst, and a pump that regulates the exact catalyst-to-resin ratio required to guarantee the best cured finish. Our equipment also allows us to spray our Finish Coat much thicker than any other applicator - this provides a much longer protection to the fibers, and provides a superior water-tight barrier.

OUR INVESTMENT IN OUR PEOPLE

Performing such specialized work requires extensive and on-going training. We invest in our team members to ensure they are highly trained professionals. You can rest assured knowing our team is a stable one, led by crew leaders with an average of over 25 years of gun laminating experience. We have very little turnover of manpower, and this continuity of our workforce means you get a consistent and quality application.  Advanced Pool Coatings is a swimming pool contractor, licensed to do all aspects of pool renovations - coping, tile, equipment and deck work. We carry workers compensation insurance on all our employees.

DEVELOPERS OF THE APPLICATION STANDARD

Advanced Pool Coatings is the exclusive installer of Advanced-Glass fiberglass coatings. We have developed specifications for our materials and our application system to ensure your project is completed properly. It is critical that your installer have a proper understanding of the matrix of the polymer composite that is being used. Fiberglass coatings applied in the field are subject to many variables, including proper surface preparation, and also environmental factors such as weather, ambient temperatures and surface temperatures.

Our team understands the influence of environmental factors and they will make adjustments to our formulas and installations, as needed, to ensure a successful outcome. Our experience from over 25 years in the industry allows us to understand these challenges and train our team to make proper adjustments. Temperatures too hot or too cold inhibit the proper cure of the laminate which will shorten the life expectancy of the fiberglass surface. All of our materials are pH stable, consistently mixed, and tested for proper cure upon completion of the application.

To make sure you are getting the highest quality application for your project, ask the contractor for the specifications for the materials and application system they plan to use. This will also help you compare bids from multiple contractors and ensure you are comparing "apples to apples.” You will quickly see the Advanced-Glass difference!