At Fiberglass Warehouse, we see thousands of orders go out the door, but we don't always get to see the final result. When we do, it reminds us exactly why we love this industry.

Recently, a customer named Richard shared his latest project with us, and it is a perfect example of how vision, skill, and the right materials can come together to create a backyard oasis. Richard built a custom fish pond from scratch, and the results are nothing short of professional.

We want to highlight how he achieved this look and the specific Fiberglass Warehouse products that made it possible.

The Vision: A Backyard Oasis

Building a fish pond isn't just about digging a hole and filling it with water. It requires careful planning to ensure the structure is watertight, durable enough to withstand the elements, and safe for aquatic life. To achieve this, Richard utilized a combination of our products to layer up a pond that is built to last.

The Materials Behind the Magic

For a project involving constant water submersion and outdoor exposure, material selection is critical. Richard used a specific combination of reinforcements and resins to ensure his pond wouldn't leak or degrade over time.

Vinyl Ester Resin

The foundation of a good aquatic structure often lies in the resin. Richard chose vinyl ester resin for key parts of this build. Vinyl ester is known for its superior corrosion resistance and ability to withstand water absorption better than standard polyester resins. This makes it an excellent choice for boat hulls, tanks, and, of course, fish ponds and pools. It creates a robust barrier that prevents blistering and water damage.

Chopped Strand Mat

To build up the structural thickness of the pond liner, chopped strand mat was used. This fiberglass reinforcement consists of glass fibers laid randomly across a binder. When wetted out with resin, it creates a strong, stiff layer that conforms easily to curves and corners—perfect for the organic shapes found in a pond design.

ISO Resin

Richard also employed ISO (Isophthalic) resin. This acts as a step up from general-purpose orthopedic resins. It offers higher strength, better flexibility, and improved resistance to environmental factors. It is a workhorse material for projects that demand durability without the higher cost of using vinyl ester for every single layer. Vinyl ester really only needs to be used on the last couple of layers of a thick laminate for the ultimate protection.

Black Gel Coat

The finishing touch—and perhaps the most impactful visual element—was the black gel coat.

In the world of koi ponds and water gardens, black is a strategic color choice. It creates the illusion of infinite depth, hides algae growth or sediment on the bottom, and provides a high-contrast background that makes the colors of the fish and aquatic plants pop. By sealing the fiberglass work with a high-quality black gel coat, Richard ensured a smooth, durable surface that ties the whole project together visually.

Start Your Own Fiberglass Project

Richard’s project is a great reminder that working with fiberglass and resin isn't limited to boat repairs or automotive parts. With a little planning and the right guidance, you can build custom water features, planters, and architectural elements for your own home.

Whether you are looking to build a small patio pond, a massive koi enclosure or repair a pool, we have the vinyl ester, gel coats, and fiberglass mats you need to get the job done right. If you have a project in mind but aren't sure which resin or reinforcement is best for your specific application, our team is always here to help guide you toward the right materials. sales@fiberglasswarehouse.com