Unlike gunite or shotcrete, which provide a watertight seal under plaster, a pool shell is porous and requires plaster to protect the concrete beneath. Under ideal conditions, plaster finishes can last up to twenty years before requiring replastering. But the world is rarely ideal and pool plaster can degrade, leading to a variety of problems.
The most common problems plaguing pool Swimming Pool Plastering plaster are stains and cracks, but a number of other issues may arise as well. These include:
Stains on the pool surface can be caused by a wide range of things, including organic stains from leaves, twigs, and stems that are often situated close to the pool; and inorganic stains from minerals in the soil or concrete of the pool. Stains are generally easy to remove, but they can be difficult if left untreated for long periods of time.
While algae is usually the culprit for most stains, other types of stains can also plague pool plaster. These are typically due to the presence of heavy metals in the pool or groundwater, such as copper or iron.
Pool plaster is available in a wide variety of colors, and if you’re going with an aggregate finish like quartz or granite, there are even more options to consider. The color you choose can greatly affect the appearance of your pool and may help to hide organic or inorganic stains.
Once you’ve chosen your pool plaster color, it’s important to keep up with maintenance. To start, it’s a good idea to brush the entire surface of your pool once a week. This will help to remove any dirt, debris, or microorganisms that might have made their way into the plaster and prevent them from staining your pool. To do this, you can use a telescopic pole with a pool brush or skimmer net attached. You’ll want to be sure to use a telescopic pole with nylon bristles, as steel wires can damage your plaster.
Another step you should take to avoid the need for replastering is to wash the pool walls with muriatic acid once a year. This is done to help remove tenacious stains, calcium deposits, and other debris that have been allowed to build up on the plaster. It’s a very effective way to avoid the need for pool replastering, and it’s an inexpensive solution to the problem.
If your pool plaster is starting to show signs of deterioration, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional who can handle pool plaster repair and stain removal. They can advise you on what options are best for your pool, and they can patch the damaged areas to save you the hassle of having to replaster your whole pool. They can also help you decide whether a more durable option such as aggregate or tile would be better for your pool. These materials are less prone to stains, but they will still need to be resurfaced every ten years or so, just as plaster does.