A Guide to the Process of Swimming Pool Replastering

If your home features an in-ground swimming pool, consider yourself blessed. For one, the pool is sure to increase the valuation of your home. The right poolside landscaping ideas can make it the perfect spot to entertain friends and family. And there is no better way to beat the summer heat than soaking in the pool.

However, if your pool has a concrete or gunite shell, maintaining its structural integrity requires regular attention, including replastering a pool.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why replastering a pool is vital when you need it, the process involved, and the costs associated with it.

What is replastering?

In simple terms, replastering a pool means applying a new layer of plaster to the plaster surface of the pool’s walls and floor. This thin layer acts as the waterproof barrier that makes your pool functional. While materials like concrete and gunite provide structural stability, they are porous by nature and require a protective plaster layer to keep the water in place.

Besides waterproofing, plaster gives the pool walls a smoother finish and an appealing look compared to raw concrete.

How often does your pool need replastering?

While some experts suggest pool owners ideally need to replaster their pool every five to seven years, that period can be stretched to almost 20 years. The lifespan of your pool plaster depends on how often you clean your pool, the pH levels of the swimming pool water, and general maintenance.

Telltale signs of damage to the plastering include the plaster cracking and pitting. As the plaster wears away, the pool walls and surface will feel uneven, bumpy, and uncomfortable. With time, the plaster is also sure to fade and lose its visual appeal. If the concentration of iron or copper is high in the water, the plaster surface and the entire pool itself can experience staining, making the pool look dirty and uninviting.

Of course, stop-gap measures exist, including patchwork and in some cases, adding a layer of plaster over the existing one. However, you will eventually need to hunker down and pay for a professional swimming pool replastering.

Keep in mind though that while you may be able to handle some aspects of replastering a pool as a DIY activity, some aspects, such as trowelling an entire pool will seem insurmountable unless you are a professional plaster mason yourself. It is best to leave the entire job to professionals.

The process

Here is a look at the process of replastering a swimming pool.

Draining the pool

The pool will need to be completely drained before you can begin work on the project. Use a submersible pump to drain the pool entirely.
Check local and state laws regarding draining swimming pool water in your local area. There are very strict laws regarding where and how pools need to be drained.
Chlorine is detrimental to local water ecosystems. If you use chlorine in your pool, use products such as Chem Out to remove all traces of chlorine from the water before you drain it.
Also, remember to expose and open the hydrostatic valves before you drain the pool. These hydrostatic valves relieve hydrostatic pressure, preventing the possibility of pool pops, which occur when excessive underground water pressure displaces the pool shell.

Prep work

A diamond blade grinder will be used to make a ¾ inch cut underneath the tile band on top of the pool. An air chisel is used to start the chipping process an inch and a half below the cut at an upward angle.
The purpose of this is to chip off space under the tiles where the plaster can be installed without a bulge.
Space around the inlet and drain fittings as well as underwater light niches will also need to be chipped.
All trained professionals wear protective glasses and gloves during this process since it is fairly dangerous.

The acid wash

Acid wash the pool walls and floor to remove a thin layer of the old plaster. This process creates the rough texture needed for a new bonding layer to adhere.

Straight muriatic acid is poured over the walls and floor of the pool, and allowed to rest for a few minutes.
This is done to etch out and rough up the old plaster so the new plaster layer has something to adhere to.
The acid will need to be neutralized before it can be disposed of.

Plastering the pool

Apply a bond coat and allow it time to dry.
White Portland cement and sand mixed in a plaster rig. The mixture is then pumped into the pool.
The surfaces are smoothened out using long trowel strokes.
The entire process takes between two and four hours. It is done quickly so the new plaster can begin curing underwater at the earliest.
Pool paint is applied after this and allowed to dry before the pool is filled.
Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to plaster swimming pools.
If swimming pools are not filled to the brim with water as soon as the paint dries, you are likely to see cracks within a day or two, depending on the weather.

Post plastering care

Caring for your pool after replastering a pool ensures durability and appearance. Here are some tips on how best to care for your swimming pool after it has been replastered.

During the first year, the plaster will continue to cure underwater, and during this time, the water pH levels will rise drastically. You will need a pH controller to keep it in the ideal range of 7.2 to 7.4.
During the first month, test the water quality on a daily basis and make sure the new plaster is brushed at least twice a day using a hard brush. This will make plaster dust rise, making it easier to remove it through the filtration system.

Costs of pool replastering

The pool plastering cost varies depending on pool size, location, and materials. For example, a standard 120-square-foot pool costs approximately $200 in materials and $500 in labor, totaling around $700. While patchwork can help in the short term, hiring a professional pool technician for a full replastering job ensures high-quality results. Always ask for a free consultation to discuss specific requirements and associated expenses.

Bottom line

Replastering a pool is a crucial maintenance activity that enhances functionality, aesthetics, and longevity. Whether addressing worn-out plaster, rough pool walls, or uneven surfaces, following a professional pool resurfacing process ensures your pool remains a valuable asset for years.

For pool owners, the key to preserving their oasis lies in timely intervention, proper care, and engaging reputable professionals. Don’t let your pool’s beauty and usability fade—replaster it and keep it as refreshing and inviting as ever!

Written by Narayan Shrouthy. February 27, 2022

Narayan is a content writer for Kukun. With experience in both content writing and editing, Narayan mixes his writing and love for reading with his passion for music. As an active musician, He aims to be a key player in Kukun's content experience.

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Comments

April 11, 2022 Log in to Reply
carolina.rodriguez41@outlook.com
There are times when plastering is useful, but you have to know how to differentiate when deeper touch-ups are necessary, with cement or replacement of entire parts.