There is a difference between plastic and plastic in a pool

When ordering a pool, it is easy to think that all pools are more or less the same except for size, color, and shape. At first, you might just focus on the aesthetics and think about how the pool will look in your garden. And that is a good thing. But it can also be a good idea to consider what you want your pool to be made of. Is there a difference between plastics? Yes, the differences may be greater than you think.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

Many of the pools sold in Sweden today are lined with a PVC liner, even though the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation advises against using it. Perhaps mainly because the base material in the plastic is actually hazardous to health. But also because so-called phthalates are added to make the plastic softer. These substances are not only hormone-disrupting but also carcinogenic. And since they tend to break loose from the plastic and seep into the water, they can also find their way into the body.

Therefore, the EU introduced a ban in 2015 on the use of these substances in the production of PVC within the EU. So today's modern PVC materials should no longer contain this, IF they are now produced within the EU, that is. Because legislation outside the EU is not as strict. So you should be careful to find out where your ordered liner comes from and also how old it is. Today's production of PVC within the EU is regulated, but not the sale. So PVC produced before 2015 can still be sold and used in pool production. And also PVC produced elsewhere outside the EU. Therefore, be a bit critical and ask your pool supplier questions about which material they will use and where it comes from.

Polypropylene (PP)

Instead of lining their pool with a PVC liner, many today choose a PP pool . This pool is delivered as a ready-made tub that is lowered into a dug hole in the ground. The plastic for these pools is usually polypropylene (PP). Hence the name PP pool.

Polypropylene is a strong and relatively environmentally friendly plastic that provides good insulation. This means that heat does not escape as quickly through the pool itself, and the water therefore stays warmer for longer. Otherwise, it is a lightweight material that is also super strong and homogeneous. Therefore, it also resists scratches well and lasts a long time.

This plastic can be colored and does not look like plastic at all when the pool is molded. It is also easy to shape, so you can order stairs, benches, or whatever you want for your pool.

Unlike PVC plastic, it can withstand a lot of heat without changing. So in this type of pool, you can swim at temperatures over 30 degrees if you want, without anything happening. The only thing that will happen over time is that it may become a bit more matte on the surface.

Fiberglass (polyester)

Fiberglass is also a plastic used when molding finished spas. The molding technique often gives slightly softer lines. The material also provides a light glass-like and sparkling surface. It therefore gives a different impression than the PP pool's somewhat more elegant design. So it is, of course, a matter of taste what one likes.

The pool is built up of several layers of fiberglass, unlike a PP pool, which consists of a single homogeneous material. Depending on how many layers you build and which materials you use for the different layers, the price and, of course, durability are also affected. A pool with fewer layers and cheaper materials has a durability of 4-5 years, while a more expensive one can last 25 years. This should be compared to a PP pool, which can last up to 45 years.

Another thing to consider when it comes to a fiberglass pool is the risk of what is called "boil plague." Fiberglass is not completely waterproof. And when water penetrates the different layers, it leaves moisture that can lead to mold growth. After a while, the mold fungus develops a gas that forms bubbles, which then expand and push boil plague out into the fiberglass. This is usually called boil plague.

Another problem with fiberglass not being really tight is that water remains when it gets cold. And we all know what happens to water in winter. It freezes. And this is where the next risk comes into play. When water has penetrated the layers and stays there, there is a risk that the material freezes from the inside. And this is difficult to avoid since water migration cannot be controlled or prevented. But the risk is, of course, reduced when the manufacturer mixes in denser materials. So find out thoroughly what the fiberglass pool you are looking at is made of. There can be a very big difference from one fiberglass pool to another.

As you now understand, there is a difference between plastics. And there is every reason to be aware of which one you choose, from many different perspectives. But with this review, I hope you have a few more facts in your pocket when you consider your purchase of a pool . Price is of course always important. But there are also other things to consider. And once you have decided to invest, it might be nice to make an active decision and choose what allows you to sleep well at night.