Fibreglass or gelcoat?

[Andy H]

What are the main advantages of fibreglassing instead of just painted bricks???!

[Jules]

A life time span of at least 25 years if applied correctly. G4 to name 1 painted finish peels eventualy. This creates the need to empty the pool temporary rehome fish, and fix.

Fibreglass is a more expensive initial outlay but in my opinion the only way to finish a pond correctly.

Jules

[Andy H]

ok many thanks.

Andy

[Jon W]

Hi Andy

Another advantage is that with fibreglass you don't necessarily have to render the inside of the pond. It is possible to line it with instead foam which also means that it will have much better insulation properities resulting in heat being retained for longer which results in a more stable temperature.

Cheers

Jon

[Jules]

This is true Jon however for the extra cost is it worth it? Where is the main heat of the pond lost? Verticaly across the surface area. Does foam realy make that much difference?

Jules

[stuart t]

I guess depends a bit if pond is in a fish house providing its own micro-climate or not?

rgds

Stuart

[Jules]

True mate but then in this situation it is a worth while cost but what if you do not have your own indoor system? is it worth the extra £££'s?

Jules

[stuart t]

Not as much as a covering or enclosure I'd suggest.

[Jon W]

Hi Jules

I take your point about covers. On it's own the foam won't make a huge difference but combined with covers it would have some additional affect. Also foam is a possible diy job so perhaps the the cost would be comparative with rendering (which are lot people avoid doing themselves) rather becoming an additional expense?

I guess it also depends on the particular factors affecting a specific pond build. In my case I wish my outdoor pond (which was came with the house) was insulated because half it's depth is out of the ground and even with a cover it is subject to rapid temperature fluctuations (it is only 4K gals though).


Cheers

Jon

[Andy H]

Keep commenting, enjoying the banter!

Interesting debate about insulating against covers and above ground etc.....