The Ultimate Guide to the Best Pool Plaster and Finishes

A great plastering job and long-term water balance management are both benefits and are made possible by a competent chemical pool starter. 

This is the link that makes the difference. 

A nice pool plaster finish that can last for more than 20 years may be maintained with the help of a good starter.

The question that needs to be answered is how a startup program handles and prevents "plaster dust" from collecting in newly plastered pools.

Plaster "dust" is a calcium carbonate precipitate that typically forms when new pools are filled with water. 

This precipitate eventually settles to the bottom of the pool, where it is known as plaster dust. 

There is a widespread misconception that the release of calcium from newly applied plaster (which results in the formation of "dust") is natural and cannot be stopped.

That statement is not accurate. 

Plaster dust can be avoided entirely by following the steps outlined in this article, which include filling newly plastered pools with water that falls within the appropriate range of the 

Langelier Saturation Index (LSI), and by doing one additional simple step.

Understanding the Science of New Plaster

Plaster cured successfully can be applied using water with an LSI of 0.0 and is balanced. 

On the other hand, water that has been properly balanced can be harmful to plaster that is less than two to three weeks old, particularly when it is being used to fill new pools for the first time. 

Some people have the misconception that achieving water with an LSI value of 0.0 is always the aim, therefore, this basic truth comes as a surprise to them.

The reason for this is due to the fact that a byproduct material known as calcium hydroxide accounts for around 20% to 25% of the hardened plaster (cement). 

This substance is soluble and dissolves in 0.0 LSI balanced water for the first two to three weeks. 

This results in the development of plaster dust and a plaster surface that has been compromised.

This dissolution process is responsible for the significant increase in the following pH and the progressive conversion of soluble calcium carbonate into insoluble calcium carbonate. 

This insoluble calcium carbonate eventually precipitates out of the solution as plaster dust (calcium carbonate).

If pools are filled with water that has an LSI of +0.5 or above, this helps prevent calcium hydroxide from being dissolved from the plaster in the first place, which is both fortunate and good news. 

Because the calcium hydroxide continues to be present in the plaster, it can be carbonated, transforming it into insoluble and significantly more durable calcium carbonate. 

This is called the "carbonation process," and it typically takes two to three weeks to complete.

When carried out in the correct manner, this beginning procedure yields a plaster surface that is denser, firmer, smoother, and more resistant to stains.

1. Choosing Your Plastering Color

Clear and succinct communication is the foundation of any successful pool plastering operation. 

To construct a project estimate and timeframe that will explain all of the expected work that must be accomplished to repair pool plaster, we collaborate closely with every customer to ensure that we meet all of their needs.

The pool plastering color options that are available for your swimming pool will be presented to you by our experts. 

We will help you decide which color will look best in your pool, whether or not you should add tiles to the waterline, how your color of choice will look at different water depths, and much more! 

Your comfort and understanding are our top priorities, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that you achieve both.

Plastering catalogs that are entirely digital, complete with color samples and other content, are now available from our company. 

You can look at the several color possibilities for our online plastering here: Plastering Colours for the Pool.

2. Draining the Pool

After we have come to an agreement over how to proceed with the plastering of your pool, our crew will travel to your location and get to work as soon as possible. 

Using our submersible pumps, the first thing that needs to be done for quality pool plastering work is to empty the pool completely. 

The water is able to be evacuated rapidly and effectively as a result of this. 

The shallow end is often where the submersible pump is placed and left running until the majority of the water has been drained. 

Once this is accomplished, our team will return the following day to complete the draining process.

3. Relieve Hydrostatic Pressure

During the process of replastering, one of the most important steps is to release the hydrostatic pressure that has built up beneath your swimming pool. 

During the process of plastering the pool, this will prevent the water from "popping up" on the surface. 

As the water has been drained from the pool, there is nothing left to act as a weight that keeps the pool in its original position. 

This means that the pool has the potential to rise up on its own! 

Because of this, getting rid of the hydrostatic pressure as soon as possible is of the utmost importance.

4. Prepare the Drained Pool for Plastering

After the hydrostatic pressure has been released from under the pool, the next stage is to prepare the pool for plastering by undercutting all waterline tiles and undercutting any pool fittings and features, including lighting, jets, returns, and the main drain. 

After we have begun, we are able to work in the plaster thanks to undercutting.

5. Assess the Drained Pool for Hollows

After the pool has been completely drained and prepared, the next step is to inspect the swimming pool walls thoroughly. 

During this stage, we will be on the lookout for any cracks, hollows, or other issues that could affect the durability of the resurfacing process.

Calcium nodules eventually develop hollows as they age. 

They result in the formation of a void beneath the pool's plaster surface, which, in most cases, leads to degradation, bubbles, or delamination over time.

A variety of factors can bring about these "hollows" or voids, and it is natural for all pools to possess at least some of them. 

We cover up to fifteen percent of these hollows, which is typically sufficient for the majority of pools that are being replastered at the appropriate time.

After holes have been filled, cracks have been repaired, and the pool has undergone a comprehensive inspection, we will start washing the pool walls with muriatic acid (if this step is required).

6. Wash the Entire Interior of the Pool With Muriatic Acid

When we wash the pool walls with muriatic acid, we are able to remove a thin layer of the surface, which helps remove persistent stains, calcium deposits, and other things that may be on the previous plastering finish that was done on your swimming pool.

In addition, we are able to remove a layer of the surface. 

Additionally, this helps to roughen the surface, making it possible for the bonding materials used in step 7 to connect the old finish to the new one more effectively.

7. Utilize a Bond Kote Material as a Bonding Agent

After that, it is necessary to apply a bonding material in order to ensure that the new pool plastering finish will adhere properly to the previous finish. 

The Bond Kote material is an acrylic-modified cement and sand mixture comprising equal parts bonding cement and resin.

After these two components have been combined, they are rolled or sprayed onto the pool wall and flooring in order to facilitate the formation of a bond between the old and new components of the pool.

8. Applying the New Plaster Finish

At long last, the swimming pool is prepared to have its first layer of pool plaster applied. 

Plaster for the pool will be applied on top of a scratch coat, and the thickness of the plaster will range from 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch. 

After the new layer of plaster has been put in, the finish will be troweled to a smooth consistency. 

To ensure that your newly replastered swimming pool has a finish that will remain for a long time, this layer of plaster will fill any hollows that were created by the hammering.

When it comes to draining, preparing, and replastering your pool, hiring a skilled pool plastering crew can assist you in avoiding any potential complications that may arise during the process. 

Not only would Sublime Pools & Spa expertly refurbish your pool, but they will also walk you through the entire process so that you are aware of what is happening at each stage.

9. Hand Wash the Entire Surface to Prevent Over-Exposure and Roughness

This only smoothes out any uneven surfaces that may have been produced as a result of the application procedure. 

It also makes it possible to smooth out any rough spots, making the newly plastered pool surface more comfortable to walk on.

10. Application of New Tile Coping Waterline Tiles

During the process of replastering your swimming pool, if you have opted in for new waterline tiles or coping/deck, we will also be working on these additional components of your pool. 

In addition to this, each of these has its very unique procedure! 

After applying these components and the plaster, we will proceed with the final inspection. Phew!

11. Final Inspection

One last check will be done to confirm that the plastering has been correctly applied before beginning the process of filling your pool with water. 

Before continuing the refilling process, the staff will examine the situation and address any issues requiring maintenance or updates. 

This strategy of measuring three times and cutting only once reduces the likelihood of any problems or blunders occuring.

12. Refilling the Pool & Chemistry Balance

After the pool has passed the last examination of the plaster, it is finally time to fill the pool with clean water. 

However, before we simply refill the pool for fun in the sun, our crew will add sequestering agents to the pool water in order to prevent any stains on the new plaster surface. 

This will allow us to keep the pool in pristine condition for as long as possible.

In addition, one free month of pool service is included in each and every one of our resurfacing contracts. 

This is due to the fact that ensuring that the chemistry within the pool is maintained at the appropriate PH level is the most crucial component after a pool's replastering is completed. 

If you do not keep the PH of your swimming pool at the appropriate level, you may end up with a damaged finish, a shorter lifespan, and even stains that are difficult to remove.

You can anticipate your new pool plastering to last longer if you keep the water in your pool clean and maintain it regularly.

6 Common Pool Surfaces Sold in Australia

• Pebble ( + glass beads)
• Fiberglass
• Vinyl Lined
• Quartz
• Painted
• Fully Tiled

Unbalanced Water Will Damage Any Pool's Surface

The fact that every pool surface, despite the manufacturer's claims to the contrary, will have a noticeable and unfavorable reaction to water that is out of balance makes the task of selecting a surface for the pool much more difficult.  

This is due to the fact that water is an extremely potent material, and because of this, it is frequently referred to as "the universal solvent" in the field of chemistry.  

It is important to keep in mind that the chemical power and qualities of the water, if the water is not properly managed, have the potential to easily etch, calcify, discolor, bleach, corrode, and even entirely damage pool surfaces.  

This image demonstrates how even a very straightforward rainwater drain may, over time, generate significant etching in concrete surfaces.

Pool Surface Lifespan Is Less When Applied in an Older Pool

When you apply a pool interior surface treatment to a pool that has been recently renovated, in many instances, the product will not last as long. 

This is due to the fact that older concrete pools will have aged and become more porous over the course of their lifetime. 

Additionally, most companies who renovate pools will immediately place the new surface over the old (or the already existing surface). 

This indicates that the previous surface is still in the pool and has been pushed below the current one.  

Due to the fact that your previous surface is still present, it will not be feasible to form a firm link to the shell of the pool. 

Consequently, the terms of several product warranties become much more restrictive (or even null and void) when they are used to pool renovations rather than brand-new pools. Below, you'll find a more in-depth discussion on this topic.

Which Swimming Pool Surface Is Best?

After reading this material, you might have the impression that any swimming pool surface that is currently on the market is a potential accident waiting to happen. 

Even though this is the case for some pool owners, if the water is properly managed, these problems may never manifest themselves or may take several years. 

In addition to proper water maintenance, the expert application of the new swimming pool surface by a trained professional during rehabilitation will play an essential role in the surface's ability to last for many years.  

Keep in mind that even if you do a good job of maintaining the water, serious issues will still arise if the surface application is done incorrectly.

The key to having a pool surface that lasts for a long time is to apply it correctly and keep the water clean.  

If you do these things, you will boost your chances of maintaining the beautiful appearance of your new pool and bringing joy to your family for many years to come.

Should You Test Your Own Pool Water?

Testing the water on a consistent basis is beneficial to the health of swimmers and will also maintain the surface of your pool looking beautiful.  

We frequently use the phrase "pool stain removers would be out of business if everyone maintained their water perfectly" to describe the situation.  

Additionally, using a high-quality home water test kit will help you manage the water more consistently because it will reduce the number of times you have to travel to the pool store.  

High-quality water test kits perform admirably and provide astonishing levels of detail.  

In point of fact, we like the older models that use liquid drops rather than test strips because, on average, the older models are more accurate than test strips and cost less per test. 

Always remember that the best thing you can do for your pool is perform routine water tests and make any necessary adjustments. 

However, it is a good idea to visit the pool store on a regular basis in order to have a complete water test performed. 

This will ensure that all of the other levels in the water are balanced properly.

Renovating Your Pool Can Transform Your Backyard

Renovating a pool can significantly impact the visual appeal of a home and its surrounding yard.  

If the work is done correctly, even an old pool may be updated to give the impression that it was just built and become an impressive focal point in your garden.   

Bear in mind that we have successfully accomplished our mission if the information you have read here has caused you to feel startled and frightened. 

We want you to be aware of everything that lies ahead, both the good and the bad.

We do not intend to frighten you with the contents of this essay.  

Instead, we want to assist you in approaching this remodeling job with an accurate informational foundation and a healthy amount of healthy skepticism.  

This is due to the fact that we frequently hear heartbroken customers claim that "if only" we had checked things out previously and done our homework in an adequate manner, we would have never used company or product XYZ. 

This occurs virtually every day.  

Remember that customers stuck in these kinds of predicaments frequently have the added stress of having to pay for pricey repairs. 

To summarise, before signing up for anything, you should do some preliminary research on the company and the product.

Pool Problems Can Cause Genuine Emotional Distress

In the latter half of 2018, we witnessed an event that exemplifies the mental anguish that can result when things go awry.  

A client who was really upset with me shared that she had recently constructed a new pool in Brisbane for $65,000, but within seven weeks, the surface began to have significant staining difficulties.  

Due to the severity of these problems, she was unable to fall or stay asleep.  

When she was asleep, she would clench and grind her teeth with such force that her husband suggested she make an appointment with a dentist. 

After spending $4,500 to repair many fractures in her teeth, the dentist advised her to lessen the amount of stress in her life and quit grinding her teeth. 

He also recommended that she stop grinding her teeth. 

He cautioned her that if she did not, there would be nothing else that he or anyone else could do for her. 

He added that if she did not, there would be nothing that anybody else could do for her.  

Her tale got me thinking about writing this post in the first place.

Take Time to Find a Great Pool Contractor

In conclusion, the pool sector is home to a large number of exceptional pool contractors. 

When it comes to making things right for their clients in the event that something goes wrong, these contractors go above and above what is required by law.  

They are persons of the highest moral character and good intent and have an outstanding reputation.  

Their customers adore them, and many people in the swimming pool industry hold them in high regard.  

Many times, I have witnessed real and honest builders personally pay for treatments, even in situations where the problems have absolutely nothing to do with them or their handiwork. 

This is something that I have witnessed on multiple occasions.  

It is my sincere hope that this article may be of assistance to you in establishing connections with contractors such as these.  

They follow through on their commitments and have integrity in everything they do.

We hope that your endeavor to build a pool goes as smoothly as possible.

Conclusion

Plaster dust can be prevented by filling newly plastered pools with water in the right Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) range and following one simple step. 

This helps prevent calcium hydroxide from being dissolved from the plaster, which can then be carbonated into non-soluble and harder calcium carbonate. 

Choosing a plastering color is essential for a successful pool plastering job, and our team will drain the pool using submersible pumps. 

The submersible pump drains the pool, relieves hydrostatic pressure, prepares the pool for plastering, and assesses the pool for hollows. 

Replastering a swimming pool involves removing hollows, washing the walls with muriatic acid, using Bond Kote material as a bonding agent, and applying a new plaster finish to fill all hollows.

Sublime Pools & Spa will guide you through replastering your pool, including hand washing, applying new tile, coping/deck, final inspection, and refilling the pool with fresh water with sequestering agents. 

The most important details in this article are that unbalanced water can damage any pool surface and that the secret to a long-lasting pool surface is to apply it properly and maintain the water. 

Additionally, it is important to test the water regularly and find a great pool contractor to make things right for customers if something goes wrong. 

Additionally, it is important to research products and companies before signing up and to find a great pool contractor to make things right for customers if something goes wrong. 

Finally, it is important to take time to find a great pool contractor to make things right for customers if something goes wrong.

Content Summary

• The key is how a startup program deals with and prevents "plaster dust" from forming in newly plastered pools.
• Plaster "dust" is a calcium carbonate precipitate that usually forms when filling new pools, which then accumulates on the bottom of the pool.
• Plaster dust can be prevented altogether by filling newly plastered pools with water in the right Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) range and following one other simple step, as explained here.
• UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE OF NEW PLASTER  Water that is balanced with an LSI of 0.0 is good for cured pool plaster.
• However, that same balanced water is detrimental to brand-new plaster that is less than two to three weeks old, especially during the initial filling of new pools.
• That compound is soluble and dissolves in 0.0 LSI balanced water during the first two to three weeks, leading to plaster dust formation and a compromised plaster surface.
• Choosing Your Plastering Color Every successful pool plastering job begins with clear and concise communication.
• Our team will show you the pool plastering color options available for your swimming pool.
• You can review our online plastering color options here: Pool Plastering Colors Draining The Pool Once we have landed on a path forward for your pool plastering project, our team will arrive at your property and set to work.
• The first step in a quality pool plastering job is to drain the pool entirely using our submersible pumps.
• Relieve Hydrostatic Pressure Removing hydrostatic pressure from under your swimming pool is critical to replastering.
• This will prevent the pool from " popping" during the pool plastering project.
• This is why it is critical for the Hydrostatic pressure to be removed.
• Prepare The Drained Pool for Plastering Once the hydrostatic pressure is removed from under the pool, the next step is to prepare the pool for plastering by undercutting all waterline tiles and undercutting on any pool fittings and features such as lights, jets, returns, and main drain.
• Wash the Entire Interior of the Pool with Muriatic Acid Washing the pool walls with muriatic acid allows us to remove a thin layer of the surface and helps remove stubborn stains, calcium deposits, etc.
• that may be on the previous plastering finish done on your swimming pool.
• It also helps roughen the surface and allows the bonding materials in step 7 to bond the old finish with the new one better.
• Utilize a Bond Kote Material as a Bonding Agent Next, it is important to add bonding material to ensure proper adhesion between the old and new pool plastering finish.
• Applying the New Plaster Finish Finally, the pool is ready to receive the first layer of pool plaster.
• Once the new plaster layer is applied, the finish will be smooth-troweled.
• Once again, hiring a professional pool plastering team will help you avoid any potential issues that may happen as you drain, prep, and replaster your pool.
• Final Inspection Before filling your pool with water, one final inspection will take place to ensure that the plastering has been appropriately applied.
• Refilling The Pool & Chemistry Balance Once the final inspection of the pool plaster is complete, it is finally time to refill the pool with fresh water!
• The cleaner and more maintained your pool's water is, the longer you can expect your new pool plastering to last!
•  Remember, the chemical power and properties within the water can easily etch, calcify, stain, bleach, corrode or even completely destroy pool surfaces if the water is not maintained.
• Pool surface lifespan is less when applied in an older pool In many cases, a pool interior surface product will not last as long when you apply it to a renovated pool.
• This is because older pool concrete pools will have aged and become more porous over the years.
• Also, most pool renovation companies will apply the new surface directly over the top of the old (or existing) surface.
• This means that the old surface is still in the pool and is now under the new surface.
• Because of this, some product warranties will reduce significantly (or eliminated) when used on a renovation rather than a brand-new pool.
• Along with good water maintenance, the professional application of the new swimming pool surface during the renovation will play a critical role in surface longevity.
•   In short, the secret to a long-lasting pool surface is to apply it properly and maintain the water.