Pots crafted from traditional materials have maintained their allure over time. However, the ever-evolving needs of society have led to the emergence of newer materials with enhanced features. In this article, we introduce three novel materials—Fibercement, Fiberstone, and Fiberglass—each with distinct characteristics and benefits.
1. Fibercement:
Originating from cement discovered around 400 years BC, it has been integral to various aspects of life, including pot production. Combining cement with fiberglass results in Fibercement, enhancing the product’s durability.
Not only significantly reducing weight when combined with fiberglass, these pots are also sturdier due to fiber reinforcement. They maintain their integrity even if broken, with the fragments held together by the embedded fiber. Offering competitive pricing, Fibercement boasts diverse surfaces and styles.
However, it may not be the choice for those seeking a lightweight product with a smooth surface.
2. Fiberstone:
Also known as polystone, this material comprises resin, glass fiber, stone powder, and pigments if color customization is required.
It is a more advanced material, thinner, and lighter than Fibercement, with a smoother surface.
Preferred for its natural appearance, Fiberstone pots can also be painted and are suitable for outdoor use.
Positioned in the higher price bracket, they maintain a natural but imperfect surface with pinholes, potentially not meeting the expectations of those seeking flawlessness.
3. Fiberglass:
A premium material made of resin, glass fiber, and minor additives. Fiberglass pots are exceptionally lightweight with a smooth surface, offering versatility in design—from painting to wood veneer, gold/silver leaf, and seashell finishes. Their delicate appearance recommends them more for indoor use.
4. How to distinguish those materials?
For many people, it is sometimes easy to get confused between the above materials. Please look at the summary table below to be able to distinguish them and avoid unnecessary situations:
Main Ingredients | Weight | Painting shinny/matte | Small rock/matt surface | Price | |
Fiberglass | Glass fiber + Resin | Very light | Perfect | No | High-class = High price |
Fiberstone (Polystone) | Glass fiber + Resin + 30% – 50% Stone Powder | Light | Ok | Ok | Medium |
Fibercement | Glass fiber + Cement | Heavy | OK, but not smooth like fiberstone and fiberglass | Ok | Cheap |
It’s essential to note the distinctions between Fiberstone and Fiberglass, especially in terms of cost, weight, and surface quality. Despite many suppliers referring to Fiberstone as “Fiberglass” due to cost-saving measures, the weight and surface texture vary significantly. Fiberglass, albeit pricier, is smoother and lighter compared to Fiberstone.