Gunite swimming pools are one of the most popular options for homeowners.  Building a Gunite pool requires a crew to dig a hole in the desired shape, the installation of plumbing, and a rebar grid that is the framework of the structure.  The steel rebar frame is secured in place using wire.  Once this has been done a heavy coat of Gunite, a mixture of concrete and sand, is sprayed in between the rebar.

The unit that is used to spray in the Gunite mixes it with water just before it is sprayed which produces a wet concrete material.  It is then smoothed out and left to dry.  The Gunite drying process can take upwards of two weeks.  When the mixture dries it will be rough.  The smooth finish that we are used to comes from plaster that is installed over the rough concrete.  Although plaster is the most popular option in pool finishes, some homeowners choose to use tile, exposed aggregate, and pebble applications.

There are many advantages that come with having a concrete pool installed over other options available to homeowners.  It is not only an incredibly durable method of constructing a pool, it is also respected as one of the highest quality swimming pool construction materials.

Gunite is used more than any other material in both residential and commercial pools.  One reason that the combination of Gunite and plaster is so popular is because of its durability.  It is a material that hold up well in a number of different environments and is able to withstand high usage.

There are endless design options when you are using Gunite and plaster in creating a new pool, unlike fiberglass pools which are prefabricated.  The sturdiness of these pools comes not only from the concrete base and plaster coating but also the usage of rebar in the base structure.  Gunite pools are meant to last forever even if the plaster layer may need to be redone overtime.

There are many options to choose from when picking out plaster for your pool from traditional white plaster to quartz aggregate, there is a finish that will enhance your pool landscape.  Choose a plaster for your pool that takes your ordinary backyard pool and transforms it into something spectacular.  Colored plaster is a perfect option especially when the features surrounding the pool are not able to be updated and you need the pool to be the focal point.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

If you are one of the people that has managed to install a swimming pool in your backyard, you are living the dream of thousands upon thousands of people everywhere.  After all, who doesn’t love jumping into the water of a pool on a hot and sunny day?

While your pool may currently be in excellent shape, there will be a day when you need to do some pool renovations, especially with the pool plastering.  There are many options available to you when it comes to the pool plaster that can be installed during a pool renovation and you can choose the one that fits your needs the best.

Here are your available options in pool plaster:

Classic White

Classic white pool plaster is basically a mixture of cement, water, and white marble aggregate, and it is going to be your cheapest pool plastering option.  That cheaper price though is due to the fact that this pool plastering will deteriorate quicker from all the chemicals and means that you will need to have it replaced again sooner than later.

Include a Silicone Shield

You may want to have a silicone shield added to your pool plaster, as it creates a barrier between your pool plaster and the chemicals that you use.  That will make your pool plastering more durable and extend the time in between replacements.

Colored Quartz

Any concrete plaster mix can have colored ceramic coated sand added to it, and this colored quartz will not only increase the life expectancy of your pool, but make it look even nicer as well.  This option is more expensive than the classic white option as well as the option with the silicone shield, but the length of time in between pool plastering replacements can make the higher price tag worthwhile.

Pebbled

A pebbled pool plaster has had little pieces of round polished aggregates added to the plaster mix, and since those little pieces of aggregate is available in numerous colors, your color choices are greatly increased with this option.  This is one of the most durable pool plasters available on the market, and if you choose to have this pool plastering completed, it should be quite some time before you need to have it replaced.

No one really enjoys having pool renovations completed on their pool, because it means that it cannot be in use during that time.  However, once your new pool plastering has been put in place, you will be so happy with how your pool looks as you are swimming in it or simply sitting next to it.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Owning a home with an inground pool presents a unique challenge in itself in that you are responsible for all of its upkeep. It is far different from any other type of backyard pool that you might have had in the past. Unlike an above ground pool which has a plastic liner that actually holds the water inside, an in-ground pool is made of plaster, concrete or one-piece fiberglass.

The plaster surface is prepared is for the water to be added and the chemicals are added to be sure that it is ready to be opened up for the summers use. Even if the installation job was done perfectly there is always going to be a chance that damage will occur and there are several ways to determine if there is, in fact, a leak or superficial damage to the plaster on your pool.

What to look for when inspecting your pool?

There is actually a debate going on among pool owners regarding whether or not you should even have to regularly inspect the plaster or concrete surfaces of the inside of their pool. However, if you are one of those pool owners who regularly check your pool, do you know what you are looking for? Here are some things that you should consider paying close attention to:

Signs of delamination: Delamination is when layers of a composite material begin to separate which can cause a number of issues including water leaking out of your pool and looks terrible. Depending on where on the walls of the pool that you find them will depend on how much water you will have to drain.

Plaster Blisters: Finding bubbles or blisters in the plaster surface usually means that water got underneath the plaster layer that is applied over the concrete shell. These more than likely superficial and not a huge problem.

Deep cracks in the walls: Superficial cracks that only appear to be in the plaster can easily be covered over and water can be added back into the pool after letting it dry. However, if the cracks are deep enough and end up into the concrete shell underneath you will need to call in local professional.

Water seeping around the pool area: If you constantly are finding water in the area around the pool you might want to consult a pool professional.

How often should you inspect the pool?

There really is not any set in the stone schedule for how and when you should inspect all of the surfaces of your pool and all of the pool equipment. However, you should consider that your pool is a huge investment and major repairs and be extremely costly. So, if you were to set aside a few hours every year to give your pool an extensive look over in hopes to catch anything that is potentially problematic.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Having an inground pool in your backyard is an exciting upgrade that many homeowners choose.  Overtime however, the area surrounding the swimming pool can begin to feel drab, the aesthetics wear out and the initial installation and style of the pool becomes outdated.  Another issue that often occurs is that the amenities you want have changed and it is time to renovate and upgrade the pool area.  Don’t think that the only way to go is to demolish the exiting plaster pool and start fresh.  That in fact is costly and unnecessary when you can easily get a new look and features added that will bring your pool space back to an area you thoroughly enjoy.

Landscaping

The addition of landscape adds greenery and color to a space that is often skewed with tints of blue. Adding landscaping materials to the space can add to the aesthetics of the area and can take a bland space into a beautiful backdrop for fun in the sun.  When choosing materials to install within the landscaping search for plants and trees that can be controlled by proper trimming.  Find trees that do not drop leaves or pine needles into the pool.  Consider the amount of shade and privacy you desire as well as this should play a role in the selection of the landscape materials that you will choose.

Pool House/Cabana

The addition of a pool house or poolside cabana are both popular options.  Both options give families a place to stay out of the sun while enjoying the pool.  A pool house can also give extra storage for pool toys, chemicals, and necessary elements for maintaining the pool and the surrounding area.  A pool house can include a space for showering and changing as well which is perfect when you entertain a lot and don’t always want people trouncing through your home.

Hot Tub/Spa

An easy addition to the pool area is a hot tub or spa.  It can be easily added to the side of the Gunite pool.  There are a number of innovative styles to consider attached and detached.

Waterfalls

If you want to add a visual affect that will really wow your company the installation of a waterfall cascading into your pool is the way to go.  With the addition of natural materials such as rocks and boulders or ready-made waterfalls your pool area can go from plain and simple to majestic and visually spectacular.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Giving your pool that much-needed facelift has never been easy. Not only have swimming pool finishes undergone a massive remodel in recent years, modern pools have given new meaning to alfresco dining and a view to “die for.” Drab-looking pools are a thing of the past, and a swimming pool is not complete without the following embellishments:

Pool Plasters

The choices of residential pool plastering are now offering homeowner modern, reliable and beautiful swimming pool finish options that would put the standard white plaster to shame. While it has been around for as long as people have been building swimming pools and it arguably remains a popular and cost-effective choice, it is, however, susceptible to all weather conditions, especially for those of improperly maintained or fluctuating chemical conditions and will dissipate in appearances after a few years.

New generation aggregate pool finishes such as diamond Brite come in an array of colors and textures such as Aqua, Onyx, Pearl, Blue, Mohave, etc. that blend well with the environment to give any pool a luxurious surface that is resistant to chemicals and staining. The flex and colors of polished aggregates such as granite and quartz will give your pool a consistent, even luster that is durable and both etch and stain resistant. This type of finish also improves bonding and creates a smooth non-skid surface with less water penetration.

Options For Commercial Pools

Commercial pool plasters also offer tile band and coping finish options for areas on the top edge of the swimming pool with the most popular being pavers, tiles, natural stones like travertine and granite. Depending on personal preference, mosaic or ceramic tile band will add color, texture, and class to a pool and protect the waterline from fading and staining from the constant exposure to the sun and outside elements.

A pool is not complete without a finished pool deck, which can be achieved with different variations of ornate tiling patterns such as Mediterranean motifs, French patterns, or classical bonds. Glass tiles have been gaining popularity due to their aesthetics and resilience qualities. Not only do they not erode or stain, but glass tiles are non-porous and are resistant to moisture.

Adding Your Landscaping To Surround Your Pool

Having a water feature does add a touch of elegance and ambiance to your swimming pool area. Depending on what you have in mind, your pool and the surrounding landscape should have a luxurious air about it where you and your loved ones can enjoy and relax in. A great way to achieve this is by making use of flowers and foliage to create a variety looks and while at it, bring a little color, add texture and if needed, create privacy.

Bamboo trees and palm trees are ideal for creating natural enclosures and for providing shade. Using ornamental flowering plants, grasses or cactuses can really transform a poolside into an oasis. Adding Downlights under miniature spillways will bring a soothing and spa-like atmosphere to your pool for those nights when you have friends over.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Pool plaster does an excellent job of creating a watertight seal for an in-ground swimming pool. Choosing the right plaster finish for your pool can make all the difference in terms of durability, functionality, and maintenance. A good plaster coat may last for as long as 20 years before re-plastering is required because it is a durable surface that can stand up to the harsh environment of pool water chemicals.

Pool Resurfacing Importance

However, even with a properly maintained water balance and maintenance, pool plaster is susceptible to wear and tear, which can cause damage to the shell and leave it looking quite uninviting. Pool resurfacing done by a professional, in this case, is important because swimming pools are far more complex, involving a lot of components that can potentially fail and result in expensive repairs

How well can you tell if your pool’s drop in water level is from normal evaporation or a leak? The reality is that some concrete pools will leak because, while they are highly water resistant, but being a porous substance makes them inclined to leaks. This is why any pools component that is worn out, broken, or failing should be attended to immediately upon detection.

Reasons For Damage

In order to maintain the integrity and esthetics of the most visible part of a pool a professionally done smooth plaster coating will prevent water from leaking through into the gunite and potentially damaging other components of the pool’s structure. Damages such as stains, streaks, erosion, pitting, mottling, discoloration, hairline cracks, and especially pool water chemistry are often the most common causes of pool plaster damage.

There are many benefits that come with having a pool plastering or pool resurfacing job done, and the type of pool plaster finish, how much pool maintenance you are willing to put up with, durability and cost should factor in your decision making. The current condition of your pool and the type of material you decide to use is the biggest factor, it all, however, comes down to the prep work.

Steps For Resurfacing

The following are some important steps when resurfacing a plastered pool which essentially involves the removal of your old pool interior and resurfacing it with a new coating.

• Drain the pool then chip away the old plaster to expose the granite followed by thorough cleaning the pool.

PS: All cracks should be filled evenly to ensure that there aren’t any uneven places on the surface when you later apply the plaster.

• Wash the pool with a wire brush, then with trisodium phosphate (TSP) followed by a coating with muriatic acid to remove all mineral deposits. The surface can also be sandblasted in order to make it rough, then a bond coat applied.
• The next step is to resurface it by spreading plaster, which can either be plaster, pebble, quartz, or fiberglass using a plaster swimming pool resurfacing system.
• When a pool resurfacing job is done professionally, you can expect to enjoy your swimming pool for years to come.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.