New Materials: Fiberglass, Fiberstone and Fibercement

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.

Producing Fibercement planters
Fibercement planters

 

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.

Resin
Glass fiber
Stone powder
Pigments

It is a more advanced material, thinner, and lighter than Fibercement, with a smoother surface.

Fiberstone surface
Fibercement surface

Preferred for its natural appearance, Fiberstone pots can also be painted and are suitable for outdoor use.

Natural surface
Painting
Sandstone surface

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.

Painting
Wood veneer
Gold leaf
Silver leaf
Seashells

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.