Category: Pound Pool Plastering - page 11

When it comes to how often a pool should be re-plastered the time frame varies between residential and commercial swimming pools.  There are telltale signs that your pool may be in need of new plaster.  The pools plaster protects the structural soundness while maintaining the look of the pool.  Most pool plastering companies recommend that commercial pools be plastered once every ten years.  However with residential pool plaster it is more important to look for the signs below as a signal that it is time to call in the professionals.

Mineral Stains

Pool water contains many different chemicals to balance the water.  If the water becomes unbalanced you will start to see stains appear on the plaster finish.  If the stains are appearing on a newly plastered pool surface you need to determine what chemical balance is off.  This way the issue can be fixed without the stain becoming permanent.  Most newly acquired stains can easily be scrubbed clean.

Exposed Gunite

In ground pools are constructed from a variety of materials.  Many residential pools are made from Gunite.  This is a material that is similar to concrete.  It is a strong material that forms the structural walls of the pool basin.  The pools plaster sits on top of the Gunite and acts as the waterproof barrier while also adding aesthetic appeal.  If you begin to see darker structural spots appear that is a sure sign that the plaster surface needs to be re-done.

Course Surface

A rough surface is the first thing most residential Gunite pool owners notice when they begin to suspect that the pool may need some attention.  If the pool surface is unpleasant to the touch or starts to snag your swimsuit the plaster is telling you it is time for you to call in the professionals to resurface your pool.

The cost of resurfacing a pool ranges between three to five dollars per square foot.  Different pool plastering companies charge different rates based on the plaster material used as well as the size of the pool.  Average residential pools are about four feet deep in the shallow end and eight feet in the deep end.  On average the pool will be about sixteen by thirty two feet.  Assuming the contractor charges you four dollars per square foot to replace the plaster of your pool, the entire job should cost right around forty five hundred dollars.

Summertime appointments for pool plastering fill up quickly.  If you know that your residential Gunite pool needs to be freshly plastered this year now is the time to get with pool plastering professionals to access what will need to be done and schedule an appointment to have the plaster redone.

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/.

A gunite pool, otherwise known as shortcrete, is a material used to reinforce pools structured out of concrete.  The gunite pool is strong and adaptable to a variety of unusual shapes and sizes.  Unlike fiberglass, gunite pools aren’t a one size fits all option in pools.  Homeowners looking to express their personalities in backyard design with an in-ground pool should consider using plaster, or gunite, to surface the concrete base of their pool.

In order to build a concrete pool with a gunite surface, the pool company’s construction team will dig a hole in the desired shape and size.  They will then place the plumbing and assemble the wire framework with a grid comprised of three eighths of an inch steel reinforced rods, otherwise known as rebar.  Rebar rods are placed about every ten inches and are held together with wire.  Once the grid is in place the pool company’s construction team will spray a heavy coating of gunite into the wire frame.  On top of the mixture of sand and cement around the rebar the plaster is put in place to create a finish.

The sprayer that is used combines the dry mixture of gunite with water before putting it into place.  This mixture produces a wet concrete material. The pool company will then trowel the gunite until it is smooth.  This mixture then dries for about a week and sits without being touched before the smooth plaster finish is applied to the rough pool surface.

A popular pool finish is plaster.  Marcite is a special finish that people use to complete their pools surface.  This is done using a special concrete paint.  The entire process of construction and installation of a concrete in-ground pool can take anywhere between thirty to ninety days.  This will of course depend on the local weather and pool installer.

Custom pools most often are created from gunite because it can be designed in any shape.  This makes it ideal for luxury homes that are looking to create a pool and landscape that is designed specifically to the needs of the designer.  When you are looking to create a natural pool gunite is the material that best fits this need.

Gunite pools can be designed to resemble a Florida beach or mountain side lake resort.  Vanishing edges, a sandy beach entry resembling the ocean or an exotic pebble finish are just a few of the many touches that can be added to create a custom pool.

The advantages of an in-ground gunite pool

• An in-ground pool made from gunite is a permanent structure that extends your home into your backyard creating an oasis. The property will have an overall higher value then other homes in the area without in-ground pools.
• A custom, personalized pool can be created from gunite. It may cost more and take a bit longer than fiberglass to install but the extra expense and time is all worth it in the end.  With the installation of a gunite pool you are able to customize each and every detail of the pool and its surroundings.
• Even if a plaster pool finish isn’t what you are looking for it is important to consider gunite as they can be finished with tile, exposed aggregate or even fiberglass.
• The most out of the box, unique ideas can be reflected in the design of your gunite pool. The concrete provides a highly durable pool that comes in any shape and size you can dream of.
• Gunite pools last a substantial amount of time. If you choose a plaster finish it is important to know that there will be maintenance involved.  The plaster must be replaced every ten to fifteen years to keep the pool looking as good as the day it was first installed.

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/.

You have decided to build a pool; in fact your dream pool is already built in your mind.  Now comes the hard part, getting the details on what is needed to build it.  An in-ground pool needs a foundation, piping and electricity to work.  After the basics are covered the goal for homeowners is to create a dramatic landscape around the pool keeping in mind safety and local, state and national rules and regulations.

There are various materials that can be used as the final layer of the pools interior.  The finishing layer of the pool is what is put on to create the water affect.  It gives the pool color and enhances the reflections of the lights surrounding the interior of the pool.  The finishing layer is also the layer that adds protection from slippery textures.  It is for your own benefit that you consider the material used to finish the pool.  Selecting the wrong material can throw off the entire pool and the feeling that you get when you use it.

It is also important to choose the correct finish for your in-ground pool as it will determine the level of maintenance required and the life span of the finish before resurfacing is required. Below you will find a list of pool materials that are used for pool finishes.  Research the advantages and disadvantages of each before you select the perfect material for your family’s in-ground pool.

Plaster:  Plaster is the most economical material used to finish the interior of in-ground pools.  The one disadvantage is the maintenance required to keep up on the plaster finish.  Plain white plaster when used on an in-ground pool finish needs to be reapplied every five to ten years.   It is important if you choose a plaster finish for your pool that you must take the time to keep up on the chemical balance within the pools water.  Discoloration, which makes pool unsightly if the chemicals are not kept up on in a plastered pool finish. It is important to know that pool plastering is a simple, inexpensive repair when needed for your in-ground pool.

Tiles: Tiles are a great pool material for the finish of an in-ground pool because of their increased lifespan over other materials.  They take more time to install than other materials although they tend to be worthy of the investment because they tend to be less expensive.

Pebbles: If you are looking for a natural appearance in your pool consider pebbles as a finish for the interior of your pool.  Pebbles can make the pool look like a lagoon or new rainforest.  Vary the aggregates used to vary the effect of the mixture. Pebble pool finishes are incredibly durable and resistant to the effects of chemicals used in treating pool water.  Another benefit of pebbles is that you do not need to use grout and they are resistant to staining.

Vinyl:  A vinyl pool finish is low maintenance and a good material that does not crack easily.  The lifespan of a vinyl in-ground pool is extensive as well.  The disadvantage with vinyl is that you are limited in the size and shape of the pool.

Fiberglass:  Fiberglass pools are expensive but are one of the best materials for in-ground pools because of how it feels on your feet.  Fiberglass is smooth and resistant to algae because it is non-porous. It is stronger than a lot of other pool finishes while remaining quite flexible.

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/.

In time everything wears out.  Swimming pool interiors are no different; over time they too will wear out.  The one positive is that there are a variety of options when it comes to resurfacing the pool.  Most likely more options now than when the pool was first installed.  A brand new pool finish can significantly increase the appearance of the pool for the better.  The downside is that all those options make it difficult for pool owners to choose what is best for their pool.

Swimming pool resurfacing is not a cheap renovation project neither is pool ownership for that matter.  The cost of resurfacing the pool is dependent upon a number of things such as the location in which you live, the condition of the pool and the material you choose to resurface the pool with.

The most common option in pool resurfacing is plaster otherwise known as Marcite.  This is the common finish for most residential concrete, gunite, pools.  Backyard swimming pools use plaster largely is because it is durable and cheap.  It is not the most attractive option but it does produce a clean, classic look.  Plaster is also available in a number of colors that help to offer a variety of affects.  Be careful when choosing colors other than blue and white as an offbeat color can affect the final result in a way that is not always positive.

Paint is used for pool resurfacing but is not a long term option.  High-quality epoxy paint can be easily applied and is affordable but is not a viable choice for pool surfaces that are severely run down.  Painting the pools surface is a quick fix to buy you additional time.  Use this option if you need to save money up until you can plaster the pool with Marcite.

Fiberglass resurfacing is an option.  Don’t confuse resurfacing with fiberglass with the installation of a fiberglass shell.  This resurfacing option is not available in all parts of the country.  It is also an incredibly controversial technique within the pool industry.  Be extra careful if you are considering this option in pool resurfacing for your backyard pool.

Aggregate, although a current trendy option is incredibly pleasing to the eye.  Resurfacing with aggregate is what is accomplished when you mix plaster with pebbles or quartz.  The aggregate finish is colorful and long lasting.  The one downside is that it is a bit more expensive than ordinary pool plastering.

Tile is another option in plastering your pool.  This is considered a luxury option for pool owners.  Covering pool interiors with tiling is expensive because of the material and labor involved.  If cost is not an option go with tile for resurfacing your pool.  If you have to ask about the expense then tile is probably not an option to consider.

Pool resurfacing is a common improvement that is needed overtime when you own a pool.  It is important to know your choices and make a decision based on what you can afford as well as the aesthetic value of the material you choose.

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/.

One decision that seems to make everyone in a household happy is the installation of an in-ground pool. Once this decision has been made there are hundreds to follow in regards to the installing the pool. The decisions are endless when it comes to integrating a pool into your landscape. You want to incorporate the pool without hiding it or having it scream “I am here, in the middle of the landscape.” Here are a few tips to help homeowners make a few of the many decisions they will have to when adding a pool into their landscape.

What type of pool should be installed?

There are three main types of pools that are installed in-ground. Homeowners can choose between vinyl liners, fiberglass and concrete. All three materials have pros and cons. Out of the three most homeowners choose to install concrete poolsas this material can be produced in a variety of sizes, styles and designs. Even though concrete pools require the most upkeep and tend to cost a bit more than fiberglass or vinyl they tend to be the most popular because if you can dream it, they can make it. Concrete, also known as gunite, is incredibly durable and can easily be enhanced using color, quartz, glass beads and even pebbles. The repair most needed it to the plaster. Pool plastering can be done by hiring professional plasters.

What type of decking would best fit?

When considering the size of the deck error on the side of too much decking over not enough. There has never been a homeowner who has complained that their pool deck is too big. Small decks are inconvenient. When the deck is too small it is hard to relax or lounge around let alone entertain. The color and style of the deck needs to compliment the pool as well as your homes landscape and exterior. It also has to feel good on your feet.

There are several materials to use for our pools deck, each coming with their own set of advantages. Look into poured concrete if you’re on a budget, wood is nice if you don’t mind the upkeep, composite is beautiful but a bit costly, stone is great for a natural look, pavers are convenient and tile is picturesque. Whatever you choose make sure the decking material is not too slippery!

What type of pool fencing is ideal?

Like every other decision so far there are a number of fencing materials to choose from. When it comes to fencing you will want to find a fence that meets B.O.C.A. regulations and is in line with state, local and H.O.A. guidelines. Aluminum is practically maintenance free while being easy to install. It is the most popular option when it comes to in-ground swimming pool perimeter fencing.

Decisions both big and small are hard to make when they are permanent fixtures in your landscape. Take your time in analyzing how each material fits with the vision you have of the overall project.

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/.

If you are a pool owner who ignores regular maintenance and cleaning it is possible that algae will build up.  If there is an algae build up on the pools surfaces it will become unsafe for people to use it.  If you choose not to perform regular maintenance you are also asking for future repairs and expenses that are avoidable.  If you are looking to keep your pool in tip top shape but want to avoid the extra work it is best to hire an expert in pool maintenance to open your pool, clean the pool regularly and close the pool at the end of the season.

Swimming Pool Maintenance is Crucial

All in-ground swimming pools, especially gunite pools with a plaster surface, need regular maintenance.  Even if your family is not using the pool on regular basis upkeep is necessary.  It is necessary to shock and sanitize the pool water in order to keep it safe and clean.  When this process is not done regularly the water can hold bacteria therefore making diseases more communicable.  Chlorine treatments break down the bacteria buildup.  Shocking the pool frequently, even when the pool is not being used every day will prevent illness from spreading from the water in your pool.

Not only does the water need to have chlorine added and water shocked regularly the filter and pump systems also need to be cleaned frequently as well.  As a pool owner you need to also check the performance on the pump system and make sure the water pressure is normal as well.  These pieces all work together to prevent future issues.

When we are talking about regular analysis of the chemistry of the pool water we are talking about testing the water twice a week throughout the summer.  Check the waters alkalinity and pH balance; if you need to add chemicals be sure to do so in the evening when the pool is not in use but the systems can be run to help cycle them.

At the opening and closing of the pool for the season certain maintenance should be scheduled as well.  When opening the pool in the spring and closing it in the fall you need to analyze the pools plaster.  Check the pools plaster or leaks and cracks.  Check the tile out around the pool for damage as well.  In order to keep the plaster and tiles in shape regularly clean those to prevent any algae build up.  You can do this by brushing the surfaces and vacuuming the debris that has built up.  An abundance of leaves and bugs should be cleared using a skimmer to clean the surface.  If you live in an area where this is really troublesome consider enclosing the area with a screen enclosure.

Keeping up on your pool maintenance is one of the key elements in the usability of your pool.  Without regular upkeep pool owners set themselves up for larger more time consuming, expensive repairs later on down the road.

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’s summer! Many families celebrate the arrival of the sunshine season by opening their pools.  In-ground pools are installed using a variety of different materials from fiberglass to plaster.  If you are looking to celebrate the arrival of summer by installing a new in-ground swimming pool consider a gunite, otherwise known as concrete, pool.

Gunite has many advantages over other pool materials.  Gunite is a type of reinforced concrete that is strong, durable and adaptable to most any desired size or shape.

For a gunite pool to be installed the crew will dig a hole around the desired space.  Then the pools plumbing will be put into place and a framework grid made from three eighths steel reinforced rods will be placed.  Once the grid is in place and secured with wire the crew will spray in a heavy coat of gunite in between and around the rebar that is in place.  The gunite is a mixture of cement, sand and water.  This mixture is then smoothed out by the crew and left to set for about a week or so before they apply the smooth plaster finish onto the rough concrete surface. The entire process takes between thirty to ninety days depending on your contractor and the weather.

Gunite is used in most luxury pools as it can be designed to any shape or size desired.  Custom designed pools are most easily created from gunite.  This concrete mixture gives the pool a more natural looking pool.  With the introduction of new designs families can use gunite to have a pool created to resemble a Florida beach, vanishing edges or even backyard ponds.

Advantages of a Gunite Swimming Pool

• An in-ground swimming pool created using gunite is a permanent structure.  It becomes an extension of your home and works to increase the homes equity.  It also adds to the beauty of the landscape which works to increase the overall value of the property.
• A gunite pool is more customizable and therefore unique and personal.  It may cost a bit more and take a few more weeks to install but are more than worth it.  You can literally customize the entire area and every little detail.
• A gunite pool can use a variety of finishes including tile, exposed aggregate and even fiberglass.
• Homeowners can work outside the box to seek a design created to reflect their home and personality.
• Gunite is highly durable and can withstand climate changes when closed properly for the season.
• A gunite pool will last a very long time.  The plaster protective layer will need replacing every ten to fifteen years which is easily completed by professionals specializing in pool plastering and repair services. 

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/.

Are you dreaming of an in-ground pool for your backyard?  There are many details to consider when installing a pool.  A solid foundation, piping needed for the pools water system and electricity are crucial decisions and details that need to be considered and worked out before ground is broken for the installation of your new pool.  After working out the crucial details that affect the longevity of the pools structure it is time to consider the dramatic affects that will make your pool area aesthetic and not to mention protected.

Various materials can be used as the final layer over the gunite structure of your pool.  The interior material of the pool is what creates the unique visual aspect of your pool.  Not only can it offer color it enhances the reflections around the pool area and enhances the benefits derived from the interior.  Another detail that is provided by the interior material of your homes pool is texture.  You need to choose a material that adds a desirable amount of texture as well to help create a safe, slip free pool interior.

Various pool materials need special care as well. When considering the material to install within the interior of your pool take into consideration not only the appealing nature of the materials but also the maintenance, up keep, life span and cost of replacement.  Below you will find a detail of materials available to create the outdoor space you have been dreaming of.

Tile:  Using tile on the interior structure of your pool is a popular option that can add a lot of flair to your pool.  If the exterior landscape of your pool area is simple this is a great way to add some flair without adding a lot of maintenance to the area.  Tiles offer a longer lifespan than many gunite pool interiors but can be timely to install.  This is countered by the cost saving advantage that comes from using tile for the interior surface of your pool.

Pebble: If you are looking for a natural material feel to your pool are pebbles are the way to go.  Picture in your head the look of a lagoon, a waterfall with a picturesque waterfall.  This is the effect achieved when using a mixture of aggregates.  Using pebbles is a great option to avoid the use grout and the aggregate is highly durable and resistant to stains as well as to the chemicals used in treating your pool’s water.

Plaster:  Plaster is the most popular option in pool interiors.  It is the most economical way to achieve the luxury of owning an in-ground pool.  When the plaster needs to be replaced it is a simple manner in which experienced pool plasters can do without a lot of downtime.  If you choose to use plain white plaster in the pool the water is beautifully enhanced by the natural color of the sky, sun and surrounding landscape.

Vinyl:  Vinyl is a low maintenance option for an in-ground pool.  Vinyl can be used to design basically any shape or size pool you desire.  They do not crack easily and have a long life span due to the ability to flex and resist the affects of ground movement.

Fiberglass: Fiberglass is the priciest option in interior pool materials.  Fiberglass offers a smooth surface that feels great on your feet.  Because fiberglass is non-porous it is resistant to algae growth.  It is also said to be stronger than many other types of pool finishes.

There is a lot to think about when designing and installing an in-ground pool.  Every decision you make will come with pros and cons.  You need to weigh them, over the cost of the project to build a dream recreation area within your allotted budget and time frame.

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 that time of year again where we begin to think about and plan for backyard adventures including opening backyard swimming pools.  If you are not familiar with opening a pool you may think it is as simple as pulling the cover off, adding water and jumping in but that is not the case.  Properly opening your swimming pool is important to the lifespan of your pool.  Below are tips and pieces of advice to ensure a successful opening of your pool.

One thing to remember when closing the pool to make opening it easier is not to empty the swimming pool completely.  This is true even in the coldest of climates unless of course you need to do structural repairs or plaster work.  Your swimming pools plaster and care is of utmost important when considering the integrity of your pool.  Other than those reasons it is best to leave water in your gunite swimming pool covered by a secure pool cover.

The nest step in the process of opening your pool for the summer is to thoroughly clean the pool.  Put together the pools filtration devices, clean out all baskets that may or may not have been prepared properly when closing and remove any plugs that were put in place at closing last year.

You will need to add water to the pool.  Before you turn on the filter to makes sure it is clean.  Different filters need to be cleaned differently so be sure to read the instructions that come along with your system.  Sand filters are cleaned differently than D.E. filtration systems.

Take a water sample to your local pool professionals for testing.  Do a complete work up of the mineral content, the alkalinity, ph and chlorine levels.  This test will help to tell you what needs to be added to adjust that water to make it perfect for the upcoming season swimming season.   Balance the chemicals to the ideal levels meant for your pool.

Your swimming pool water will not be ready to swim in until it is completely clear.  This process can take upwards of a week.  Chlorine may need to be added to keep the levels correct.  Make sure you clean the filters daily, if not twice daily to help the water get clear quicker.  If you live in an air of increased pollen, dander, cotton weed or other flying tree gunk leave a cover on the pool when it is not in use.  This will save you a great deal of skimming and vacuuming.

At this point your pool is ready to enjoy.  Keep up on the normal housekeeping and maintain the pools water to ensure a season of pool water ready to swim in everyday.

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/.