Fibreglass is one of the most popular and useful materials around when it comes to constructing both above-ground and in-ground swimming pools, and it's easy to see why -- this glass fibre-reinforced plastic is enormously durable and resistant to all forms of moisture damage, making for extremely durable pools that can be expected to last for many years.

However, even these redoubtable pools aren't invulnerable, and sooner or later fibreglass pools can begin to suffer noticeable wear and tear, particularly on their internal surfaces. When this occurs, replacing your pool is very rarely necessary, and pool renovation services can renew the strength, durability and appearance of your fibreglass pool quickly and efficiently.

When should I have my fibreglass pool renewed?

Fibreglass pools naturally fade somewhat over the years, as they are exposed to repeated cycles of pool cleaning chemicals and UV lights. This is no cause or concern, but a fading pool that is also starting to show these other signs of wear and tear should be a cause for concern:

• Leaks are the most obvious sign of a degrading fibreglass pool and may not be easy to spot in in-ground pools. Drain your pool to make searching for cracks and holes easier, or use leak detection dyes to precisely ascertain the location of your leak(s). Waterlogged ground around an in-ground pool indicates a serious leak requiring immediate attention.
• Peeling and surface cracks on the bottom and sides of your pool can indiciate that the fibreglass's protective outer coating has eroded, leaving your fibreglass rough, uncomfortable and prone to harbouring bacteria and fungi in its cracked surface.
• Mould and algae can simply signify a pool that needs cleaning, but persistent colonies of mould can indicate the locations of leaks or damaged fibreglass, especially when located on the outside edge of an above-ground pool.

How should I have my fibreglass pool renewed?

Fibreglass pools are renowned for their low maintenance requirements, and renewing one can be just as simple as maintaining it. To bring all but the most irreparably damaged fibreglass pools back to life, a simple recoating of your pool's interior surfaces is required. You can go about this in one of two ways:

• Applying a new layer of fibreglass to your pool is the most reliable and durable way to renew it and is ideal if you wish to return your pool to the way it looked while new. This new fibreglass layer is just as durable and low-maintenance as the previous one. However, fibreglass can be difficult for DIYers to safely use and apply, so you should bring in professional pool renovators if you choose this option.
• Applying a layer of epoxy pool paint is a viable alternative to laborious and expensive fibreglass and forms a tough, waterproof coating that is practically indistinguishable from true fibreglass. These paints are generally quite inexpensive and are simple enough for the relatively experienced DIYer to apply themselves. However, they can lack the long-term durability of a new fibreglass coat.