Frequently Asked Questions

When is it time to resurface?

As plaster ages and wears, the cement (or binder) begins to erode away, exposing the marble dust sand. Resurfacing is recommended when the surface becomes rough and deteriorated. Usually, your swimmers will complain of tender feet and you will notice that fine debris is difficult to remove from the pool surface. Keep in mind that older plaster is usually just a cosmetic and tender foot issue and not a structural problem. Because most Oregon and Washington pools were built using “wet” gunite, they hold water even if the plaster has worn away to expose the gunite shell.

What is “floating” a pool?

In Oregon, a pool can float out of the ground if the water is drained from the pool and there is a high water table below the pool. The water in the pool provides the weight to keep the pool in the ground. If the weight is removed and a high water table exists, the pool will pop out of the ground and take the decks with it!

What is a POP-OFF?

A pop-off is an area on the plaster that has lost its bond. Usually they bubble-up and spider crack before breaking open. In some severe cases, the entire plaster surface delaminates and begins to fall off when not properly bonded to the old surface.

How much time does resurfacing require?

This depends upon the condition of the existing surface. In some instances, the pool or spa has already been resurfaced at some point in its life. If this second or third surface has begun to develop “hollow spots” or delamination areas throughout the pool, it needs to be chipped-off and removed. The new surface MUST have a solid foundation for proper bonding. If this is not obtained, the new surface will eventually fall off with the old. If a “chip-off” is not required, the pool will be drained in two stages to prevent “floating” the pool out of the ground. This will require about 3 days. The plaster is chipped away from the tile line, all fittings, lights, etc. The pool is thoroughly inspected and any concerns are brought to the client’s attention at this time. It is turbo blasted with a 5,000 psi pressure washer and then a bond coat is applied to the entire surface. This bond coat is allowed to cure to the old surface and then the new plaster surface is installed and hand-trowelled until smooth. The pool will begin to fill the same day it is plastered. AD-Tech will set-up a garden hose in the deepest part of the pool or spa and have the client turn on the water later in the afternoon. The water MUST remain on until the pool or spa is full or a waterline will be left in the new plaster. This entire process requires approximately 5-6 days. . . Contingent upon weather

Why are the first 30 days so important?

The first 30 days are very important for a newly surfaced pool or spa. Your new surface is a cement product and will typically require 28 days to fully cure. During this time it is crucial that the water chemistry is closely monitored to prevent scaling.

Why do I need to brush my pool after surfacing

Plaster produces a very fine dust that must be brushed from the surface. If allowed to remain, it will create a hard scale on the surface.

What if my pool is painted?

The paint will be sandblasted from the pool surface and then the bond coat applied as usual.