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How to Get the Best Finish for your Pool’s Plaster

Posted on: September 4th, 2015 by affordablepoolrepair No Comments

There are a number of options that you can go through before you jump into pool construction. Everything from shape, size, depth, and most importantly, surface finish can be customized as you wish. Plaster is a popular choice as it gives pools a nice smooth and easy on the skin finish. Pool plaster is a mix of white cement, marble aggregates and water. It also makes the pool look good while being cost effective. In fact, building codes dictate that in most public pools, the surface has to be plastered.

Here are a few tips on getting the finish perfect and keeping it that way

  • White is not the only color
    Back in the day, there was no other choice of color except white, but recent innovations in the field have made it possible for a wide range of colors to be added to the plaster. Addition of color has made it possible for further customization.
  • Quartz additives
    Quartz additives are a way to ensure the finish of the pool lasts a lot longer. They may increase the total cost of your pool construction, but will be worth it in the long run. Quartz also makes the color sheen and pop more, while making it stick longer. Surface finishes range from smooth to matte for enhanced grip.
  • Time of year
    High humidity and comfortably cool temperatures are best suited for plaster to cure well, so start your construction project around the end of spring and early fall time. Plaster needs to take its time and cure evenly for best results. If it’s too hot, the outer layers will quickly harden and cause cracks to form. If its too cold, the hot mix added will make it dry instantly, but will leave behind structural rigidity issues overtime.
  • Acid start
    It is done to make sure the plaster’s surface has no dust or loose particles while creating a smooth top layer. The process takes about two to three days where the pH level is brought down to 0 and then back to normal after brushing the pool down in between. Acid starting a pool results in an even cure and smoothness while also correcting any chemical imbalances that may be present.

As far as cost and pricing goes, it is likely to vary between regions, so make sure you check out a few places and get a number of quotes and estimates before hiring a contractor.