To resurface a pool, first drain the water and clean the surfaces. Then apply a new plaster, pebble, or tile finish.
Resurfacing a pool is a crucial task for pool maintenance and increasing its longevity. Over time, your pool’s surface will start to show signs of wear and tear due to water, chemicals, and activity. It can lead to leaks, stains, and other structural damages.
Resurfacing it not only restores its appearance but also improves the overall safety and hygiene of the pool area. This article covers some of the best practices for resurfacing a pool, including preparation, selecting the right material, and post-resurfacing care.
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Understanding Your Pool’S Surface
Maintaining your pool’s surface is fundamental to prolong its lifespan and avoid costly repairs. Identifying the type of pool surface, knowing when to resurface, and assessing the severity of damage can help you make informed decisions.
Identifying The Type Of Pool Surface
Before you start the resurfacing process, you need to identify the type of surface your pool has. The three most common types of pool surfaces are concrete, plaster, and fibreglass. Here are some key characteristics of each surface:
- Concrete: Durable and tough surface with roughened texture, susceptible to cracking and stains over time.
- Plaster: Smooth surface that can be painted in various colors and easily repaired; typically lasts seven to ten years before it needs resurfacing.
- Fibreglass: Easy to maintain, long-lasting surface that resists mold, algae, and stains.
Knowing When To Resurface
Several factors determine when it’s time to resurface your pool. The age and condition of the surface are significant to consider. Here are some signs that you may need to resurface your pool:
- Rough surface: If you notice rough and bumpy texture in your pool, it’s time to resurface.
- Stains: If you have difficulty removing stains, resurfacing might be necessary.
- Cracks: If you see cracks in your pool, they can worsen over time and cause more severe damage to your pool structure.
Assessing The Severity Of Damage
It’s vital to assess the severity of damage before deciding on resurfacing your pool. If you take care of minor issues early on, you can prevent the need for more significant repairs. Here are some tips to assess the severity of the pool damage:
- Cosmetic damage: Consider minor repairs if there are only minor cosmetic issues.
- Structural damage: If there are severe structural issues, it’s best to resurface before more damage occurs.
- Budget: Consider the budget for repairs and resurfacing; resurfacing can be a cost-effective option for long-term maintenance.
By understanding your pool’s surface, you can maintain it efficiently, save money on costly repairs, and prolong its lifespan. Remember, regular maintenance and early repairs can prevent significant damage, and resurfacing can restore your pool to its full potential.
Preparing For Resurfacing
Gathering The Necessary Materials And Equipment
Before starting the pool resurfacing process, it’s essential to gather all required materials and equipment. Here is a list of things you must arrange before getting started:
- Pool resurfacing material – such as plaster, quartz, or pebble
- Cleaning supplies
- Paintbrushes and rollers
- Pressure washer
- Pool drain pump
- Trowel
- A putty knife
- Safety equipment such as gloves and goggles
Make sure that you have all these items available before beginning the process. Having everything on hand will ensure that you won’t have to stop the resurfacing process in between to buy some necessities.
Draining And Clearing The Pool
The first and most important step in pool resurfacing is to drain the water and clean the pool thoroughly. Here are some vital things you should remember while draining and clearing the pool:
- Turn off the power supply to the pool pump.
- Rent a pool drain pump and use it to drain the water from the pool.
- Remove all debris and dirt from the pool using a net or a skimmer.
- Use a pressure washer to wash the pool’s interior walls and floor to remove all stubborn stains and build-up.
It’s essential to be careful when draining the pool, considering small kids or pets that might wander into the empty pool. Always make sure you drain the pool securely and have someone with you as a safety precaution.
Repairing Cracks And Damage
Before resurfacing the pool, it’s crucial to repair all the cracks, damages, and leaks. Here is what you have to do:
- Scrape off all the old plaster or pebble with a putty knife.
- Check for any structural damages, such as cracks or chips.
- Use a trowel to even out all irregular surfaces in the pool.
- Fill in all cracks with epoxy filler, ensuring they are entirely filled and leveled.
Repairing damage before resurfacing the pool eliminates the chances of it showing through the new surface. It also helps the new surface adhere better to the pool’s structure.
By following these instructions, getting your pool ready for resurfacing will be much more comfortable and streamlined. Remember to take all safety precautions while resurfacing your pool. With time and effort, you can have a shining new pool that you can enjoy with your family and friends.
Resurfacing Your Pool
If your pool is looking worn or stained, resurfacing it can give it a fresh appearance. Here are some tips for resurfacing your pool:
Applying The First Coat
The first coat is the most important step in the resurfacing process. Follow these steps for applying the first coat:
- Start with a clean pool surface by washing and acid-washing the old surface.
- Dampen the pool surface before applying the first coat of plaster.
- Using a trowel, apply the plaster evenly and with the proper thickness.
- Allow the first coat to cure completely before applying the finish coat.
Mixing And Applying The Finish Coat
After the first coat is completely dry, it’s time to apply the finish coat. Here’s what you need to do:
- Mix the finish coat thoroughly
- Apply the finish coat with a trowel in a thin and even layer.
- In order to avoid color variations, it’s important to mix and apply each batch of finish coat all at once and not mix it back into the next batch.
- Work the surface with a pool trowel to smooth it out as much as possible.
Tips For Ensuring A Smooth Finish
Resurfacing your pool is not an easy job and requires attention to detail. Here are some tips for ensuring a smooth finish:
- Keep the pool surface damp throughout the process.
- Apply the plaster evenly over the surface.
- Make sure to work the surface with a trowel to smooth it out as much as possible.
- Pay close attention to the curing time of both the first and finish coats, as a lack of patience may result in cracks or other imperfections.
By following these tips, you can successfully resurface your pool and enjoy a fresh-looking pool for the summer season.
After Resurfacing
Refilling And Balancing The Water Chemistry
After resurfacing your pool, the next step is refilling it. However, before adding water to your newly resurfaced pool, it’s crucial to balance the water chemistry. Here are the key points to consider:
- Test the water’s ph, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels using a test kit.
- Adjust the ph level first to make it between 7.2 to 7.8. Use soda ash or muriatic acid to increase or decrease the ph level, respectively.
- After the ph level is balanced, adjust the total alkalinity levels to range between 80 to 120 ppm using either muriatic acid or baking soda.
- Adjust the calcium hardness levels to ensure proper water balance and prevent corrosion or scaling of the pool’s surface.
Curing And Cleaning The New Surface
Once you’re done refilling and balancing the water chemistry, you must clean and cure the new surface to maintain its quality and longevity. Here are the key points to consider:
- Curing is essential to ensure the new surface sets and dries correctly. Start by running the pool pump for at least 24-48 hours, which helps circulate the water and prevent staining or discoloration.
- Brush the pool surface daily for the next two weeks to ensure that any debris or sediment is removed. This step also aids in removing excess plaster or pebbles that could damage the pool’s surface.
- Backwash the pool filter weekly and ensure that you use a non-abrasive cleaner that won’t damage the new surface.
- After two weeks, you must balance the pool’s water chemistry again and test the chemical levels.
Regular Maintenance And Upkeep
To ensure that your newly resurfaced pool remains in top condition, you must follow the recommended maintenance schedule. Here are the key points to consider:
- Maintain proper chemical balance by testing the pool’s water chemistry weekly using a test kit or a pool supply store’s service.
- Also, make sure to clean the pool regularly, including skimming the debris from the water surface daily and brushing the pool’s walls weekly.
- Check and maintain the pool’s filter system, including cleaning the filter monthly and replacing the filter media as necessary.
- Professionally service your pool as required, mainly by checking for and repairing any leaks, cracks, or other issues that could damage the pool’s surface.
Follow these simple yet essential steps, and your newly resurfaced pool will be in perfect condition for years to come, providing enjoyment and relaxation for your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions On How To Resurface A Pool
How Often Should You Resurface Your Pool?
It’s recommended to resurface your pool every 10-15 years, but it also depends on the type of finish you have and the climate you live in.
Can You Resurface Your Pool Yourself?
Yes, you can resurface your pool yourself if you have the necessary tools, materials, and skills. However, hiring a professional is recommended for best results and to ensure safety.
How Much Does It Cost To Resurface A Pool?
The cost of resurfacing a pool depends on the size of the pool, the type of finish you choose, and the condition of the pool. On average, it can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000.
How Long Does It Take To Resurface A Pool?
The time it takes to resurface a pool depends on its size, the extent of the damage, and the type of finish. It could take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to complete the process.
What Are The Different Types Of Pool Finishes Available?
There are various types of pool finishes available, including plaster, pebble, and tile finishes. Each has its pros and cons in terms of durability, maintenance requirements, and cost.
Conclusion
After resurfacing a pool, it will not only be beautiful and look new again, but it will also be safer and more hygienic. Homeowners can enjoy their backyard oasis and entertain guests with peace of mind, knowing that their pool surface is safe and sanitary.
While resurfacing a pool is no easy feat, it’s definitely an investment that’s worth making, as it can extend the life of the pool and add value to the property. With the proper knowledge, tools, and materials, the resurfacing process can be a rewarding diy project.
Following these guidelines and tips, homeowners can save a lot of money by resurfacing their pool themselves. So why not get started today and give your pool the facelift it deserves?
