Step 5
Plaster the pool floor starting in the deep end, working towards the pool’s shallow end. Use two layers of plaster on the pool floor as well. Allow the marbelite to set slightly, just short of hardening in place. Add more layers to damaged areas as necessary.
Step 6
Trowel the marbelite finish one last time to polish the surface. Use smooth, even strokes while polishing to remove any marks left by trowelling. While polishing, keep the trowel damp by dipping it into a bucket of water to avoid leaving burn marks on the plaster surface from the friction of the trowel. Then, allow the marbelite coating to cure. The length of this process will depend on the moisture level in the air.
Step 7
When the plaster has cured, fill the pool with water. If using a garden hose, attach a deflector to avoid damage to the surface caused by the water pressure. Keep the marbelite surface damp while filling the pool by spraying it down every hour.
Step 8
For the first three weeks, scrub the marbelite surface daily using a soft pool brush, and backwash the pool every day. The pool should also be vacuumed frequently to remove any waste. To avoid damaging the finish, avoid using a robotic cleaner during the first three weeks after application.
Après marbelite
The following tips will help to ensure the best possible, long-lasting marbelite pool finish.
- Begin filling the pool with water immediately after the marbelite finish has cured. At the same time, start filtering the pool immediately to decrease calcium buildup as well as to ensure proper pool circulation for chemical distribution.
- Ensure the pool’s filtration system is properly functioning at all times to maintain clear, sanitary water conditions.
- Whenever possible, only use name-brand products for treating the pool water. Do not be tempted by cheaper, imitation products that may contain damaging additives.
- Keep the marbelite surface wet and clean of debris. Note: should some crazing appear, it is perfectly normal and will likely disappear after the marbelite has finished absorbing moisture.
- For the first two weeks, clean the pool daily with a non-metallic brush and vacuum, but avoid using a vacuum with wheels that may scuff the surface.
- The pool’s pH level may seem slightly high for a few weeks; however, this is normal. It should decrease with continued use. The desired pH level should be between 7.4 and 7.6.
- Cover the pool when it is not being used.
- Always keep the water level above the marbelite finish to avoid crazing, delamination, or discolouration.
Renovation market is ever expanding
Where a pool or spa surface restoration is needed there is often a plethora of other products and services required in addition to a new plaster surface. Pool coping and waterline tiling work is regularly required and, sometimes, the entire plumbing system and equipment gets upgraded as well. Some restoration projects also involve complete landscape rejuvenations, opening the door to all this trade has to offer as well.
On large projects, many contractors choose to hire a reputable pool resurfacing sub-trade to perform the plaster work properly, thus avoiding pitfalls due to lack of knowledge and/or experience. When offering this renovation service, make sure the client contract is air-tight and explains in detail the inherent cosmetic variances associated with plaster surfaces. Further, make sure the client is aware of the adverse effects of poor water chemistry from the start, and avoid unnecessary problems by giving them proper chemical guidelines to follow.
Pool surface restoration is a rewarding field that is continuing to grow. It can offer builders steady work and income for those who choose to learn the craft. The field is forever changing as new finishes, techniques, and additives come to market, which also often require continuing education. Rest assured, the industry will continue to see ongoing growth and many more pool and spa resurfacing options in the future as this field continues to advance.
Melanie Rekola is an award-winning landscape designer with Blue Diamond Pools & Landscaping,
a pool restoration and landscape design/build firm in Barrie, Ont. She studied horticultural design
at the University of Guelph and owned her own recognized landscape design/build firm. Now, with Bluediamond Pools, Rekola continues to use her passion and skill to design and create a diverse range of landscape projects. She can be reached via e-mail at melanie@bluediamondpool.ca.
