Yet another "how do I" thread (but at least I am a supporter now :))

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Thank you, I am clear on the Portland -
"I would then use a mortar mix to do the actual repair of the gunite. You could use a standard type S mortar, but for things like this I prefer to go a little heavier on the portland." - If I am using Mortar what does it mean to go heavier on the portland?

I thought I would just open a bag of Type S Mortar or whatever and mix it up as per your instructions, but sounds like you are suggesting to mix my own then?

I have to make up about 6.5" for the top of the seat
 
Several premixed mortar mixes are 6500 PSI. Here's one that's available from Home Depot:

www.homedepot.com

Rapid Set 55 lbs. High-Performance, Fast-Setting Mortar Mix 04010055 - The Home Depot

Acquire the Rapid Set 55 lb. Mortar Mix 04010055, crack-resistant, non-shrink designed for strength and durability, and it works great on overhead and vertical applications from The Home Depot
www.homedepot.com

I HIGHLY suggest using Rapid Set's plasticizer admixture if you're using forms to keep the water content low but keep the mix very pourable.

www.homedepot.com

Rapid Set 2.12 oz. Concrete Pharmacy Flow Control 81100000 - The Home Depot

Acquire the Rapid Set, Concrete Pharmacy 2 oz. Flow Control Additive 81100000, can be added to cement mixtures to increase strength and fluidity and reduce shrinkage compatible with most hydraulic cements
www.homedepot.com

I would stay away from Type S unless you plan to make some modifications to it
 
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I hope to tackle this next week but could be two weeks. Thanks everyone for your advice. I know it seems / I am asking some redundant questions but I want to make sure I am 100% clear on the approach as there is no turning back once I start.

Today I plan to finish the coping and next week the mortar in the coping. Then I will finally get to do this seat! Man I really hope I can get this pool done in less than a month to enjoy it some this Summer! Crazy I have been without a pool for this long
 
Rapid set is high strength no need to add Portland just use additive. If you use regular type S or whichever you can add the Portland to beef it up. You always want to use bonding agents and any additives you can it's cheap insurance and it works well
 
Fantastic! Can I mix the rapid set in batches or do I need to mix the entire thing at one time? I was planning to mix a batch apply it and then quickly mix another. as I type that it does not sound ideal but it is going to be a lot of mortar so it's really not possible to mix it all at once.

If I do multiple batches is it best to combine them or wait for dry time in between "layers" and then add the next? Especially with Rapid set it will be setting fast.
 

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I have a mixing paddle and use a drill and 5 gallon bucket, sounds like I need to step up my game some, but I am not sure about using a trash can. I guess the point is to mix the batches fast enough so it is one big batch essentially.

I have been using an acrylic fortifier / bonding agent but it is sold in smaller bottles only. I see depot as large bottles of the cement bonding agent, I will use that instead.

I was thinking a form is the way to go, otherwise it is going to be a challenge. I'll browse depot and see what wood to use for that. I have done cement work but those forms are like 4-6" tall, but now that I think about it i need to make up about 7"only so it will probably work
 
troye said:
I took the plunge, not in a bad way. I've been wanting to contribute but just have not had the money. I still didn't but just could not feel good about utilizing the awesome resource TFP without contributing. Glad to be a silver supporter with plans to upgrade to Gold. This forum has provided me with so much guidance, help and direction.

I am in process of rehabilitating our pool. It all started with "just" the flagstone coping needing to be redone which is a large enough project , then added the removal of the top 3.5" of pebble tec due to delamination, damage and old repairs not matching, this is still in process (separate thread).

Now.... to the last issue (I hope) Seat Repair...How?
I knew I had some delaminated pebble tec on our seat, but today I decided to remove just a small piece and to my surprise the gunite below the pebble tec has some integrity issues.

1. First pic (Seat1) - The seat and the outline indicates the pebble tec I will need to remove
2. Second pic (Seat2) - you can see a chunk of the gunite that came out with the pebble tec. Red circle shows what also might be loose
3. Third pic (Seat3) - shows most likely the part of the seat I will need to rebuild

My initial thought is I will need to create a form and then use cement to rebuild the seat. How exactly? What kind of cement, and materials do I use? Any tips / help you have to offer is greatly appreciated.
Click to expand...
Wow! Troye, why didnt' the pool builder build the rebar reinforcements/cage around the seat? The gunite/shotcrete should have been at least 3" behind the rebar and 3" in front (total of 6").
 
Very good question!!! I will have to dig up some old photos to see if there is any rebar, I thought there was. I was not home for most of the build.
 
You can use anything for the form, plywood, lumber whatever. We use vinyl wainscoting strips for curves they are a hair over 7" in height. You can use multiple buckets. Read the label on bag for the amount of recommended water and pre fill the ratio of bag mortar to water in the buckets. Throw a tarp down and have a good source of water ready. Add the mortar and mix down the line of buckets tweaking the mix as you go. Another person helps for adding powder or water. Then just go dump in the form and trowel it to where you want the top to be. This way you only bond agent once and it will be stronger in one batch pour. Dont overthink it too much its straight forward
 
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okay I am motivated now, "mortar for dummies"...thank you! I am used to doing things on my own which is part of the challenge. Time to get the wifey involved.
 
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I am just about done with the form. For the Rapid Set's plasticizer admixture it says not more than 4 packets per bag or mortar, what do you recommend?
 
Yes start with one and see how it flows. The drier the mix the stronger it is you want the recommended water added and that's pretty much it. The plasticizers makes it flow like you added more water without taking away its strength. If you mix it all quickly it will flow fine. If you have a palm sander around use it to vibrate the form you will have smoother finish just try to get any air pockets out as you add your mix.
 
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okay to be clear I should add the recommended amount of water. I also plan on substituting bond agent for water in the first batch that will be poured on directly to the existing gunite.

I think I understand now, watched a short video. Mix it to thick milk shake consistency and then add the packet.

The form is done. Finding the right material was the most "difficult'.I will post a few pictures later.

I am not worried about smooth finish since pebble tec will be on top, but because I am who I am I am going to do this anyway...why not lol.
 
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