Surface application guidelines
Before starting a marbelite application it is essential to take the necessary steps beforehand to properly prepare the pool and/or spa.
For instance, when restoring an existing pool and/or spa, always acid wash the surface first. Then, follow this cleaning process with a slush coat made up of one part slurry bond and four parts water 12 hours before the next step, which involves applying a scratch/bond coat.
The scratch/bond coat is mandatory. This acrylic-based bonding adhesive should be applied with a notched trowel and appear as a rough finish. This initial coat should be left to dry for five to seven days before it is ready for the marbelite application.
Another step that may be required on certain pool and/or spa renovations is keying below the waterline tiles. This is necessary in cases where the marbelite surface is applied without replacing the waterline tiles. Because the final plaster finish is 12.7 mm (0.5 in.) thick, the area below the waterline tiles must be chipped and removed to avoid a bulge or lip where the plaster meets the tile. This keying technique ‘feathers in’ the plaster surface to eliminate any noticeable seams.
Step 1
Drain pool. Put on work gloves and safety goggles to protect skin and eyes from the marbelite mixture as well as a face mask to avoid inhalation of the material. Wear white rubber boots with cleats attached to the bottom to protect the plaster surface as it is applied.
Step 2
Remove any standing water that remains on the pool floor. Depending on the moisture level in the air, dampening the pool surface via garden hose is sometimes necessary.
Step 3
Machine mix the marbelite according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add water to the mix until it is has a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 4
Trowel the marbelite onto the pool surface by hand, starting at the top of the wall, working downward. Use a rounded steel trowel for the material application, firmly pressing the plaster onto the pool surface, creating a 4-mm (0.157-in.) thick layer. Once the finish sets, add another layer of equal thickness.
