Tag: Plastering Swimming Pools - page 6

When installing an in-ground pool you have a variety of different surfaces to consider including fiberglass, vinyl, plaster and pebble tec.  The most common type of surface material used when installing an in-ground pool is plaster.  Plaster is available in a variety of colors and textures; additives such as quartz can be added for extra durability. The chemical additions to the plaster help to hide stains and imperfections to the surface of the pool.  Below you will find tips to help ensure your freshly plastered pool surface is perfect.

Plaster During the Spring and Fall

Plastering a pool is best done in the spring and fall months because of the cooler temperatures.  Having plaster laid in the hot months can cause the plaster to dry out prematurely before the water is added to the pool.  It is less worrisome to plaster in the cooler months as a calcium additive can be added to the plaster to naturally speed up the curing of the plaster.

The prime time to have your pool plastered is when the temperature is consistently between fifty and seventy-five degrees with decent humidity.  Contact your local pool plasterer to schedule an appointment to have your pool plastered when the weather is perfect for your area. You can schedule an appointment for the fall even now.  If you know that after this season the pool will need to be re-plastered schedule a time to have it done during the cooler fall months.

Fill the Pool with Water Without Stopping

Having your in-ground pool filled with water all at once is the best situation for a freshly plastered pool.  The best way to accomplish this is to bring water from a hydrant or brought water in via a truck.  The new plaster cures better underwater and is best to be filled quickly.  Do not stop filling the pool with water at any point a dirt line or demarcation line will occur and is not the perfect addition to a newly plastered pool

Keep the Pool Clean

It is so important that your pool stay clean especially during the first few weeks after having it freshly plastered.  Dirt and leaves can stain new plaster so it is important that they are not allowed to find a home in your pool.  Instead of using a manual or automatic pool cleaner get out the pool brush.  Use the pool brush a few times a day, if possible, to keep the sides clean while also using a skimming net to filter out floating debris.

Balance the Chemicals in the Pool Water

Fresh plaster requires balanced pool chemicals.  The plaster will naturally have a high pH condition so it will be important add a pH reducer as necessary.  During the first year keep an eye on and adjust the total alkalinity regularly.  The calcium hardness needs to be maintained as well as if any of these things is off balance your plaster can etch or pit.  Not exactly the look you want for a newly plastered swimming pool.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

It is finally the time of year that we can start discussing swimming pool spring cleaning.  It may seem early but it isn’t!  The sooner you start the better the outcome when you are ready to open the pool for the summer.  Spring cleaning your pool will help prevent algae from taking hold.  As soon as the temperature hits sixty degrees algae blooms and we all know it is not a friendly beast.  Test the water and add shock to avoid algae from sprouting at the very least.

Now let’s get started on where you should begin.  The first thing to do as a pool owner is to prep the area around the pool for what is to come.  Trim all of the shrubs, trees, grass and flowers that surround the pool area.  This step should never be overlooked as spring blooms can cause major issues when it comes time to open the pool.  If the bushes harbor old leaves it is time to pull them out.  Remove all of the extra debris left over from the fall and winter, paying especially good attention around the pump, filter and other pool equipment.

Once the area around the pool is clean it is time to move on to the cover of the pool.  If there is water on the cover it is best to use a pump to remove it.  Be careful to avoid taking water from beneath the cover out of the pool.  Once the water is removed off the cover the debris will be easily removed by gently sweeping the surface.  Clean the cover well and allow it to dry well; only a clean, dry cover should be stored.

Next check the pool water.  In this step it is also time to look at the pools plaster.  If the pools plaster is in need of repair now is the time to empty the pool and schedule the pool to be resurfaced.  Pool plastering should be done only by professionals as it is the one of the key structural elements to your pools integrity. If the plaster is fine it is time to get the pool water in to shape.  Get the pool equipment running, filters and skimming baskets in place and start adding water to the pool.  Fill the pool on the higher side because you will waste water as you go.  Vacuum out the pool waste and get the equipment running.  The filter is the pools best friend when it comes to spring cleaning.

Use a pool opening kit.  Follow all of the directions on the chemicals when using a pool opening kit.  Before testing the water allow the chemicals to circulate for at least a day before testing.  This ensures that you are not wasting money adding chemicals that are unnecessary.  Spring clean all pool toys while you’re at it and get ready to enjoy.  Using a pool heater you may even begin to use your pool during the spring season this year!

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

There are a variety of surfaces available when it comes to in-ground pools: fiberglass, vinyl, plaster or pebble tec.  The most common material for in-ground pools is plaster and with that commons many choices in color and texture. To make the most of your in-ground swimming pools plaster you will want to ensure your pool plaster is applied properly, cured properly and cared for.  Different additives can help hide imperfections and conceal staining when added to your pools plaster.  Below you will find tips on how to ensure your pools plaster is properly installed and cared for.

The best time to plaster your pool is during the later part of the summer into the fall.  If you plaster during the hottest months you can cause premature cracking.  The plaster needs time to dry and the pool needs time to fill with water.  After your pools plaster has been applied it is important to be on the lookout for small cracks in the surface.  Plaster is more susceptible to drying out too quickly when applied during the heat of the summer months.  This is one of the most important reasons to apply plaster to your pool in colder temperatures.  You can add special preservatives to help the plaster cure.  For the best results it is important that the temperature range between fifty and seventy degrees with excess humidity in the air.

The best way in which to fill the pool is using a truck or fire hydrant.  Pool water cures faster under water and the quicker this is done the better.  By filling the pool at a faster rate you are better able to secure your pools plaster and curing.  If the pool stops filling by any chance, even if only for a few hours, you risk the plasters appearance.  Your plaster may show a dirt line where the filling was paused.

The pool and the new plaster should be kept clean throughout the filling process and for several weeks after it has been installed.  Use only a pool brush to clean the pools plaster daily.  If time allows make sure you use the pool skimmer as well.  The cleaner you are able to keep your pool after the plaster is installed the longer your pool plaster will look brand new.

The last thing you need to take into account when having your pool newly plastered is balancing the chemical balance.  Remember that the chemicals in the pools plaster will add a different balance to the pools water.  Be ready to add chemicals to ensure that the pools ph and alkalinity levels keep your pools plaster in brand new condition.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Winter is bound to come to an end at some point soon.  When the weather starts to heat up there will be no better place to cool off, relax and take in some sun other than your own swimming pool.  Owning a pool is a lot like owning a boat in that it is a lot of fun but requires regular maintenance to keep the pool running properly.  In order for a pool to function properly you will want to create a maintenance schedule.  Don’t be tempted to skip regular maintenance as this is what will keep your summer free of major pool repairs.

1)      It is crucial to your pools longevity that you allow the pools pump to run frequently.  Not running the pump enough will through off every other element of that helps the pool function properly.  If the pump is not working efficiently your pool cleaner, filter, heater and chlorinator will not be efficient.  Purchase a solid pool pump with at least two speeds.  It is recommended to allow the pump to run twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.

2)      Another element that is important is maintaining the proper water level.  If the water falls below the tile line of the pool the pump will start to draw air.  This will cause your pump to lose its prime.  If this occurs and the water is no longer circulating through the system none of the pools equipment will work properly.  If the prime is lost you also run the risk of overheating the pump.

3)      As a pool owner you must take the time to adjust and account for changes in the chemicals in the pool water.  If the pools pH balance is off you run the risk of damage to the pools plaster.  Troublesome stains can occur on the pool plaster and leave the shell aesthetically unappealing.

4)      Your pool and pool equipment must be kept clean.  Not doing so will create issues and may void the warranty on your equipment.  Often times if there is a build up on your pools equipment and this is the cause of the malfunction it will void the warranty and you will have to cover the repair costs out of pocket.  Keep the pump basket and filters clean.  Also re-insert the equipment properly so that it always functions properly.

5)      No matter what the color of the pool water is it is important to test it.  You can’t determine the condition of the pool by the color of the water.  Hazards to the pool water don’t only happen when the water is green and cloudy.   Check the water even when it is crisp and clear.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and pool plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Winter is one of the harshest seasons for your pool. In order to keep the pool free from damage and the effects of freezing throughout the winter it is important that you prepare it properly.  A little bit of winter preparations and maintenance will go a long way in making sure your pool is ready to swim in come summer.

The temperatures are usually warmer doing the day and the night brings in the freezing temperatures.  In order to protect your pool throughout the night it is important that you set up freezer protect equipment.  Anytime the temperature drops below thirty five degrees the freeze protect equipment needs to turn on.   If you don’t do this you could be asking for expensive pool repairs.  During the say when temperatures are warmer and the sun is out, trap it in your solar heating system which will help save energy in the long run.

Chlorine Feeders Should Be Turned Off

Chlorine feeders ensure a constant flow of chlorine into the pool water.  If the system malfunctions at any point there may not be enough chlorine in the water to keep it safe for swimming in.  Most people close their pools in the winter so it is important that the chlorine levels are maintained.  Instead of keeping chlorine feeders on throughout the winter manually monitor the levels of chlorine in the pool water using a pool test kit.  The levels of chlorine in the water should be between one and one point five parts per million.

Clean the Skimmers and Baskets Often

The water in your pool needs to be clean at all times.  Without taking the necessary steps it may be incredibly difficult to achieve this.  For the pool to remain clean you need to have the right equipment to collect, trap and dispose of debris littering the pool.  Pool skimmers are a great tool for this.  A skimmer is connected to the pools wall with a suction pump and filters in the water and dirt, trapping the dirt and letting clean pool water escape.  Keeping the skimmers and baskets cleaned at all times will help keep the water free of debris.

The pH should be In Balance

One of the most important elements in your pool water is the pH level.  The pools water chemistry needs to remain neutral.  A neutral pH balance is anything between seven point zero and seven point six.  If the pool water is too acidic it will dissolve plaster pool surfaces and eat away at metal pipe fittings.  If the pool has too much alkaline will result in calcification at the waterline.

Algaecide Winterizing

Shockingly it is possible for algae to grow in a pool during the winter season.  If you aren’t able to kill the algae it will flourish in your pool, become discolored and smell really bad. Treat the pool before shutting it down for the winter.  Make sure the chlorine level is maintained before adding in the algaecide.  If you don’t take this step the algaecide will be ineffective.  In order to prevent the algae from growing for the entire winter it is important to use an extra strong algaecide.

Follow the tips above in helping to protect your pool for the winter season.  It is especially important to protect your pools plaster.  Make sure the water pH is in check frequently throughout the winter season to avoid costly pool plaster repairs.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Caring for your in-ground pool is not something that should be overlooked no matter what the season.  Winter pool care is as important as pool maintenance is throughout the summer months.  One of the most important elements to your in-ground unite swimming pool is the plaster overlay.

The pools plaster is what keeps the water from leaking out of the pool through the gunite, concrete, pool shell.  If the pool were allowed to be filled without a proper plaster in lay the water would seep out through the porous concrete shell.  The plaster element of the pool is both functional and decorative.    Without the plaster the pool would not be as appealing to the eye.  The plaster gives a clean interior finish to the pool.  The plaster can be a variety of colors and textures. The texture in the plaster makes it so that the surface is non-stick.

Common Characteristics to In-Ground Swimming Pool Plaster

Plaster has its own texture.  Plain, white plaster when installed feels like the outside of an egg shell.  It is smooth but not slick.  It will not feel like tile does when it is wet.  Plaster does not have the polished, slippery effect when you have with tile.

The finish on your in ground pool is not meant to be flawless.  Plaster is a product of artists and therefore when applied should be viewed as a unique piece of art.  Plaster is applied by hand using a trowel.

When it comes to the construction of your pool the plaster is one of the most difficult parts of the project.  This on top of the visibility is what makes it such an invaluable part of the construction.  Don’t take short cuts or hire an inexperienced pool plastering company.

When your pool has a light installed you will notice more small imperfections in the pools plaster.  They will be magnified by the light.  Small imperfections, small cracks are normal and should not be cause for any concern.

When your pool is first installed it is advisable to keep the pool filled with water for the first two seasons.  You will want to take extra precautions with the pool’s equipment throughout the winter to avoid issues.  Keeping the pool filled allows the plaster to properly cure and age.

Pool plaster left without water is a disaster waiting to happen.  If you must drain your swimming pool for any reason it is important that you waste no time in making the needed repairs and then refill the pool with water.  The plaster on the pools surface should never go more than eight days without being full.  After eight days the plaster is more susceptible to drying out and cracking.

Caring for your in-ground gunite pool plaster throughout all four seasons will ensure that your pool is fully functional throughout the swimming season.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Another summer season has come and gone.  With temperatures dipping into the freezing realm in parts of the country it is time to make sure your in-ground pool is closed properly.  If you haven’t had time to close the pool yet be sure to keep your pool pump running to avoid freezing which will cause cracks in the plaster.  The materials that the pipes, heaters, filters, pumps and shell are made from are all very strong but when they freeze, they will expand.  This will cause cracks in even the strongest of materials.

It is necessary to take proper precautions in closing your gunite plaster pool.  Below you will find tips to help you properly close your in-ground gunite plaster pool.

• The first thing you need to do when closing your pool is to balance the pool water.  The pools pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness levels need to be adjusted to prepare for the harsh winter cold.  This should be done a few days prior to the actual closing of the pool.  You may also want to shock the pool with granular chlorine while you are balancing the pool water.  This needs to occur before you put the winter pool cover onto the pool.  High levels of chlorine will ruin the pool cover.
• The pool should be thoroughly cleaned before you close the pool.  This will avoid issues from occurring that could be present in the spring such as stains on the pools plaster.  Also debris and algae left present in the pool water will dilute the chemicals leaving the environment more susceptible for more algae growth.
• Lower the pools water.  The level in which you leave the pool water will be dependent on the pool cover you choose.  For a mesh safety cover lower the water to about a foot below the pools tile, for a solid pool cover or one that floats on the  surface the water level should be lowered to five inches below the pools tile.
• Add in the winter pool chemicals.  This will require you to follow the directions on the pool closing kit.  These chemicals can be purchased at any local pool center.  Once the pool water level has been lowered it is the perfect time to add in the winter pool chemicals.
• Clean and store the pool filter and blow out all lines that could contain water that could possibly freeze and crack the pools equipment.  Remove pumps, heaters and automatic chlorination systems.  Place all of these pieces together in a temperature controlled environment to avoid any possibly freezing that can occur.
• Plug all open lines and shut the power to the pumps off.  This can be done by switching off the circuit breaker.  Also be sure to turn off all timers just in case someone accidently turns the circuit breaker back on.

If this seems all to complex or if it is your first time you are closing your pool for the winter the best piece of advice I can give to you is to hire a professional pool closing company to come in and walk you through the process.  They can help to address the specifics surrounding your precise in-ground pool needs.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.