Plaster has Many Small Cracks. What to do?

[Coach_1]

So my pool has many small cracks in the steps and the edges of the steps are chipping off. As you can see the algae loves the cracks and I can’t keep it out. We bought the house 3 years ago and best I can tell from research is the pool is around 20 years old. I use the TFP method and water numbers are in the recommended range and have been since I opened it. What is the cause of the cracks and what do you recommend I do?

 

[Coach_1]

Water chemistry as of 8pm cst. for reference.

 

[ajw22]

The plaster is at the end of its useful life. Time for a chipout and replaster job.

 

[Coach_1]

I was afraid of that. How do I find someone that can plaster? Google I guess? The local pool store is notoriously expensive.

 

[ajw22]

You have to ask around among local pool builders who they use to plaster. Lots of plaster crews are subcontractors.

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There are proper steps to follow for the making of durable pool plaster. There are also improper practices that can lead to early deterioration or discoloration. Following is a ten-point checklist that will help achieve a lasting and discoloration free plaster. 1. The best cement/aggregate...

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[Geebot]

When was the last time it was filled?

 

[Coach_1]

It’s always full. I use the TFP method I learned on this site so I never drain it. The only drawbacks to the TFP method is that your water is so clear that you see all the imperfections.

 

[Coach_1]

Thanks I’ll get some references for the plaster. I just didn’t know if it was possible to repair it and get a couple more years out of it. Haven’t researched a replaster job yet but it just sounds expensive.

 

[Mr Bruce]

It is. But it's the cost of doing business. You will like your pool with updated tiles and new plaster.

 

[Coach_1]

So a friend of mine had his pool replastered last year by a local company and highly recommended them. He said they did great work and had great customer service and my buddy is extremely picky and not afraid to tell people if he’s not happy. So if he recommends them then they’re probably good. Said it took 7 days start to finish and with a full chip out. I went over and check out his pool today and it seemed really nice. It’s crazy how smooth new plaster is compared to my 20 year old plaster. He said he was able to save a lot of money by not replacing the tile so I’ll probably do the same as my tile looks good. I’ll just give it a thorough cleaning while it’s empty when they redo it. They’re coming out tomorrow to give me an estimate. So we’ll see.

What are some questions I need to ask him tomorrow?

 

[Coach_1]

So got a quote for $7,500 and no chip out. If I understood correctly they drain, sand, apply a bond coat then plaster. Also fix any hollow spots. And no tile replacement. Does this seem about right?

 

[ajw22]

So got a quote for $7,500 and no chip out. If I understood correctly they drain, sand, apply a bond coat then plaster. Also fix any hollow spots. And no tile replacement. Does this seem about right?

It's in the ballpark.

 

[Coach_1]

Thanks but is a chip out necessary or is what he’s recommended ok? The only cracks are on my steps.

 

[ajw22]

Thanks but is a chip out necessary or is what he’s recommended ok? The only cracks are on my steps.

If the only cracks are on your steps probably not. They can chip out those cracked areas.

 

[Geebot]

A sandblast will likely cost less than a chipout and gives you a pristine surface for plaster. If you're doing it, you don't want to risk a re-do in less time than a replaster would otherwise buy.

 

[ajw22]

They sandblasting the plaster of or sanding it down?

Someone had their plaster sand blasted and discovered after the work was done and the pool willed that their main drain was plugged with sand. Keep an eye on what they do.

 

[Coach_1]

He didn’t specify the sanding method. He just said “sand it.”

 

[ajw22]

I suspect it is not sand blasting. You should confirm what you are getting.

 

[Coach_1]

I will definitely confirm every step and material before we commit to anything.