Acrylic VS Fiberglass

In 2017M as a manufacturers we started our journey with fiberglass hot tubs and after several years while market tendencies were changing together with customer’s needs, we supplemented production with acrylic hot tubs. Having experience with both materials, we want to tell you about their properties, because many people face the question - what to choose?

Briefly about each:

Fiberglass is a composite material made of fine glass fibers with various resins. This combination creates a strong, lightweight and water-resistant material that is ideal for making a hot tub shell. Research suggests that a fiberglass liner can last 5-20 years or more. However, the liner may not last long if you: buy a cheap tub that is potentially made of cheap and low-quality materials, and do not maintain and clean the shell after each use. The fiberglass insert, although made of high-quality materials and professional workers, has the property of color fading, is easily scratched, and relatively quickly loses its commercial appearance. It also has a limited selection of colors. However, it is a much cheaper option, so it will suit those looking for an economical option.

In the world, fiberglass tub shells were started to be produced around 1970, but soon they were replaced by acrylic ones. This change in the market has proven to be particularly beneficial for maintaining cleanliness, as acrylic tubs have become much easier to maintain.

Acrylic - an acrylic tub liner is made from a single sheet of acrylic, which is heated to the point of melting and placed on the liner form. The vacuum then pulls out the air between the sheet and the mold until a smooth and beautiful insert is formed. This process is carried out with the help of special equipment. In order for the formed acrylic insert to gain strength, its lower part is coated with fiberglass.

It is a much stronger and more impact and scratch resistant material. Acrylic is durable, has a soft and pleasant surface for the body. The quality of the acrylic used also plays a big role in the maintenance of your product. Sidabras Spa uses acrylic of USA origin, which is of the highest quality and certified. Acrylic is considered one of the best materials for hot tub shells, and the world's leading hot tub brands (Bullfrog Spas, Jacuzzi, Thermo Spas, Sundance Spas, Hot Spring, Caldera Spas, etc.) use this material. High quality acrylic is durable, energy efficient and looks great. It also retains heat well when insulated with quality materials! It is important to emphasize that acrylic is also much easier to maintain and clean, but it is a more expensive option compared to fiberglass.

To conlude, acrylic is definitely superior to fiberglass. However, our team also wants to recommend that before purchasing a hot tub, visit the manufacturer or its store and see both types of bathtubs in person, this can make it easier for you to decide whether it is worth paying more for an acrylic bathtub, or whether a fiberglass bathtub will satisfy your needs.