Basalt Rebar for Pools That Last

While steel is a typical pool construction material, Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) is a better alternative. Basalt fibers are derived from volcanic rock. When combined with polymer fibers, this material becomes stronger, lighter and more durable than steel. For pool construction, BFRP offers impressive performance against chemicals and water.

With BasTech® basalt rebar from Basalt Engineering, your next pool construction project will last longer and be easier to complete.

BENEFITS OF BASALT REBAR FOR POOLS

BFRP delivers several advantages to engineers, contractors and their clients. Basalt rebar is:

Non-corrosive: Basalt rebar is more resistant to chlorides and pool chemicals, reducing rust bleed-through and pool shell cracking that affects steel. This characteristic makes basalt rebar valuable for aggressive water chemistry and saltwater pools.
Lightweight: Up to 75% lighter than steel, basalt rebar is easier to transport and lift, reducing freight weight, installation costs, crew fatigue and risk for injury.
High in tensile strength: The tensile strength exceeds 1,000 MPa — far greater than steel — and maintains structural performance in wet conditions.
Low in thermal conductivity: When the temperature swings, steel rebar expands and contracts, causing pool shells to crack. Basalt rebar’s low thermal conductivity minimizes the risk of cracking.
Nonconductive and nonmagnetic: Safely install basalt rebar near pool equipment and electrical systems without issue.
Cost-effective: Reduce life cycle costs for clients with lower maintenance expenses. Basalt rebar also extends average pool shell life while protecting finishes like tile, epoxy and plaster.
Eco-friendly: Basalt rebar is a sustainable material with a significantly smaller carbon footprint compared to steel.

Recommended Applications

BFRP easily replaces steel in various pool construction applications:

Shotcrete and gunite pools: Shotcrete and gunite are two common methods for constructing pools. Use basalt rebar instead of steel for better concrete wear.
Precast panels and modular systems: Basalt rebar can also be used for a structural framework in precast panels and modular pool shells, offering the same benefits for concrete wear.
Pool decks and water features: The benefits of basalt rebar extend beyond pool construction. Use this rebar for decks and unique water features to support long-term wear for clients.

Swimming Pool Rebar Installation: Step-by-Step Overview

The pool rebar installation process is similar to steel rebar installation. Follow these steps:

Design a grid of rebar using ACI 440.1R and ASTM D7957 guidelines.
Cut basalt rebar with a standard diamond blade or fine-tooth saw.
Place rebar and tie with standard wire or approved zip-tie systems.

The team at Basalt Engineering can work with your engineers to determine the appropriate splice length and bar sizes for your project. While many engineers and contractors are accustomed to #3 to #5 steel, this metric needs to be adjusted to account for BFRP’s higher tensile strength.

Why Contractors and Engineers Choose BasTech®

BasTech® Rebar from Basalt Engineering is an excellent replacement for steel, addressing some of the most significant challenges in modern construction. In addition to the benefits of BFRP, our team provides rebar in 400-foot coils for pool projects. These coils minimize splicing and enable longer runs of rebar that can contour to various pool shapes. Remove the risks of oxidation and corrosion while improving environmental compliance, increasing sustainability and stretching the lifespan of your pool construction projects.

We manufacture BasTech® in the United States, adhering to stringent quality standards for raw basalt fibers. Adapt our rebar to your project with #3 through #6 diameters and smooth or sand-coated finishes. BasTech® rebar is also backed by ASTM D7205 and D7957, and developed with a strong understanding of Florida building codes.

Choose Basalt Engineering for Pool Construction

Basalt Engineering helps pool construction teams build smarter, stronger and greener with BasTech®. Transform your next project with basalt rebar to lighten the load on your crew and deliver exceptional wear for your clients. Get in touch with us today to talk to our team about your needs.

Up Your Reinforcement Game

Request a quote or learn more about our superior grade, sustainable and innovative basalt fiber rebar solutions.