Common Pool Plaster Problems

Whether you’re looking to invest in a new backyard pool or simply spruce up your old one, pool plaster is a smooth, durable, and attractive finish for any pool. However, like any surface under such repeated use, it can become worn and tired over time.

But how do you know when to replaster your pool? Here at Miller Pools, we’ve compiled some of the common pool plastering problems that indicate it might be the right time for pool replastering.

What is pool plaster?

Typically made of Portland cement, aggregate – usually marble sand – and water, pool plaster is a finishing material that acts as a waterproof seal for your pool. In addition to standard white, pool plaster can be customized to feature different colors and textures, including quartz or pebble plaster.

Common pool plastering problems

Delamination

If you’ve noticed large bare patches where the plaster has come away from the surface of your pool, this is called delamination. This occurs when the plaster doesn’t adhere properly to the shell of your pool, creating an air bubble. Delamination is often caused by a weak or substandard plaster mixture, so it’s important to work with an experienced contractor when replastering your pool.

Fading

The near-constant exposure to chlorine, sunlight, and other chemicals can cause your pool plaster to fade over time, making your once-white pool look shabby and worn. While acid washing might be able to bring a bit of brightness back to your pool, if done repeatedly, it can wear down the plaster and result in serious damage. 

If you’ve got an older pool, replastering would be a more effective long-term solution; not only can this improve the appearance of your pool, but it can also increase its lifespan and fix underlying problems with its surface.

Spalling

While problems with your pool plaster often develop over time, what happens if the surface isn’t plastered properly in the first place? Painstakingly applied by hand using a trowel, it takes a lot of care and attention to ensure a smooth, even finish for your pool plaster. 

If you use a pool contractor without the proper skills and experience to do the job properly, you could end up with a rushed surface that flakes and peels over time – this is called spalling. Not only does spalling make your pool look ugly, but it can also cause serious structural issues if the plaster falls away and exposes the shell. To prevent this, it’s vital that you only choose a trusted pool company, like the team at Miller Pools, to carry out your pool replastering.

Staining

No matter how much you try to avoid it, it’s only natural that your pool will develop stains after a while, making it a less inviting place to spend time. Pool stains can be caused by any number of things: algae, debris, minerals, organic matter, and more. 

Once pool stains have developed, they can be time-consuming and expensive to get rid of, so it’s best to prevent them from happening in the first place. This can be done by implementing a regular pool maintenance routine that includes frequent brushing, skimming, and cleaning, as well as water chemistry tests to ensure balanced pool water.

Etching and scaling

A rough pool surface can make for an unpleasant and sometimes painful swim. This is known as etching and this coarse texture is often caused by improperly balanced water. Another issue that can affect the feel of your pool is scaling, which occurs when excess calcium or other minerals accumulate. 

To tackle this, you should enlist a professional to properly maintain your pool by brushing and cleaning your pool walls, as well as regularly testing the water chemistry. However, if the damage is too severe then a complete pool replastering might be needed.

When should you replaster a pool?

It’s generally recommended that you should replaster your pool every 10 years or so. However, if you notice any of the above issues, then replastering may need to happen sooner rather than later.

Luckily, the team at Miller Pools is here to help with our pool replastering service. For over 30 years, we’ve been working with pool owners across Humble, Pasadena, Atasoscita, and the wider Texas region. Our experienced team will have your pool back in top condition in no time – contact us to schedule a consultation.