How To Repair Pool Plaster: Underwater, Empty Pool, Patching

Pool plaster repair is an essential aspect of maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of inground swimming pools. The pool plaster repair process is crucial for the longevity and functionality of swimming pools.

Repairing pool plaster can be accomplished in various scenarios. Repairing plaster can be done underwater, in a pool that is empty, or with simple patching. These techniques ensure the pool plaster remains in optimal condition, safeguarding against potential damage and preserving its visual charm.

Understanding the nuances of each swimming pool plaster repair method, from underwater fixes that avoid draining to extensive repairs in an emptied pool, is key to effective pool maintenance.

How To Repair Pool Plaster Underwater?

Repairing pool plaster underwater requires 8 steps using special putty and plaster mixes. You don’t have to drain the pool. The 8 steps are listed below.

1. Wear Goggles: Essential for clear visibility underwater.
2. Widen Crack: Utilize a paint scraper’s pointy end to prepare the crack for repair.
3. Clean Area: A wire brush is used to remove algae, dirt, and debris.
4. Select Repair Material: Choose either Underwater Epoxy Putty or Underwater Pool Plaster.
5. Mix Underwater Epoxy Putty: Combine equal parts of A and B putty and shape it to fit the crack.
6. Apply Epoxy Putty: Insert the putty into the crack, ensuring full coverage and smooth out the edges.
7. Prepare Underwater Pool Plaster: Mix the plaster outside the pool and form it into a ball.
8. Install Pool Plaster: Push the plaster into the crack with a trowel or putty knife and flatten the edges for a smooth finish.

This method allows for effective pool plaster repair underwater, maintaining the pool’s structural integrity and aesthetic quality without the extensive process of draining.

How To Repair Pool Plaster In An Empty Pool?

Repairing pool plaster in an empty pool is essential for addressing extensive cracks or deep damage effectively. You can fix plasters in a pool if it’s empty by following these 10 steps.

1. Safety Precautions: Prioritize safety by wearing goggles, ear protection, heavy-duty gloves, and closed-toe shoes.
2. Drain the Pool: Ensure the pool is properly drained, following specific guidelines to avoid structural damage.
3. Prepare the Crack: Utilize a grinder or masonry saw to cut around the crack, creating a dovetail shape for better plaster adhesion.
4. Clean and Dry: Thoroughly rinse the crack and allow it to dry completely, brushing away residual dust or debris.
5. Apply Sealer: Use underwater sealer along the crack’s edges, leaving space for the plaster.
6. Mix Plaster: Combine pool plaster with a bonding agent to a peanut butter-like consistency.
7. Moisten Perimeter: Before applying plaster, lightly dampen the crack’s perimeter with a grouting sponge.
8. Fill the Crack: Apply the plaster mix into the crack, removing air bubbles and ensuring a smooth finish.
9. Texture Matching: Use a trowel or putty knife to match the plaster’s texture to the surrounding surface.
10. Curing: Refill the pool for optimal plaster curing, or keep the patch moist if there’s a delay in refilling.

These steps ensure a precise and durable swimming pool plaster repair, maintaining the pool’s integrity and appearance.

How To Patch Pool Plaster?

Patching pool plaster is necessary for extensive areas of damage, requiring the swimming pool to be emptied. This process involves 11 steps.

1. Safety Gear: Wear safety goggles, ear protection, heavy-duty gloves, long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes for protection.
2. Identify Damage: Use a hammer and masonry chisel to remove visibly loose plaster.
3. Inspect for More Damage: Tap the pool floor with a wooden pole, listening for hollow sounds indicating hidden loose plaster. Remove any found.
4. Clean Area: Clear away all removed plaster.
5. Prepare Surface: Create divots in the area to be patched for better plaster adhesion.
6. Apply Acid Wash: Treat the surface with an acid wash, also an opportune time for a complete pool acid wash.
7. Mix Plaster: Prepare plaster to a peanut butter-like consistency, adding cement dye if needed to match existing plaster.
8. Moisten Area: Dampen the repair area with a grouting sponge or a fine mist of water.
9. Apply Plaster: Use a pool trowel to apply plaster, filling divots and smoothing the surface.
10. Smooth and Finish: After a 20-minute wait, re-smooth the plaster. If hot or dry conditions prevail, re-moisten before smoothing.
11. Cover if Delayed: If refilling the pool is delayed beyond 4-5 hours, cover the patch with wet bed sheets, especially in hot weather, to prevent premature drying and shrinking.

It is advisable to refill the swimming pool following the patching process in order to ensure proper cure of the patch. These steps ensure a thorough and effective repair of pool plaster, maintaining the pool’s structural integrity and appearance.

Why Is It Important To Repair Pool Plaster?

Pool plaster is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of inground pools. Timely swimming pool plaster repair is essential for 7 reasons.

• Structural Integrity: Cracks, ranging from hairline to deep splits, can weaken the pool’s structure and potentially lead to water leakage, undermining the concrete shell.
• Surface Consistency: Peeling and delamination of plaster, caused by a weakened bond with the concrete substrate, create uneven surfaces that disrupt water circulation and complicate maintenance.
• Aesthetic Quality: Chlorine and other chemicals can stain plaster, resulting in unsightly discolorations that detract from the pool’s visual appeal and may foster bacteria and algae growth.
• Comfort and Safety: Erosion and discoloration over time lead to a rough and uneven surface, which can be uncomfortable for swimmers and challenging for cleaning.
• Preventing Further Damage: Small pits and holes, while seemingly minor, can exacerbate deterioration, trapping dirt and debris and making maintenance more difficult.
• Cost Efficiency: Addressing issues promptly, even if minor, can prevent larger, more costly repairs in the future and extend the plaster’s lifespan.
• Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspections help in early detection of problems, allowing for timely repairs and maintenance, ensuring the pool remains safe and enjoyable.

Acting swiftly on this swimming pool maintenance task ensures the pool remains a safe, enjoyable, and aesthetically pleasing part of any property.

What Factors Contribute To Pool Plaster Deterioration?

The natural aging process limits the plaster’s lifespan to approximately 10-15 years. Water quality, especially high chlorine levels, accelerates deterioration and staining. Chemical reactions with acids or pool cleaners can cause erosion and discoloration. Physical impacts from toys or pool care practices can induce surface damage.

How To Prevent Pool Plaster Damage?

To prevent pool plaster damage, maintaining proper water chemistry, with ideal pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness, is fundamental. Limiting harsh chemical use, like acid washes, protects the plaster. Soft pool toys minimize surface scratches. Gentle cleaning techniques avoid abrasive damage. Regular professional maintenance, including plaster etching and resurfacing, extends the plaster’s life. Maybe you would also like to read how to replace pool caulking?