I have a vermiculite base on my in-ground pool but during the winter this year the first 12 feet of the shallow end which broke up due to frost heave. I removed the broken up base in the shallow end and cut a line across the width of the pool saving 3/4 of the pool base. Should I repair the shallow end with a vermiculite grout or can I use a grout without vermiculite? Will regular grout bond to the remaining vermiculite? Getting vermiculate in my area seems to be a problem with supply. Or do I have to remove all of the vermiculite bottom and replace with grout only?
Vermiculite base problem
- Thread starter KenMac
- Start date
I would go just grout only. but i would wnat to get to the bottom of the problem. how did it frost heave if there was water in the pool?
We had a bunch of water runoff from the neighbouring houses. I have installed two new drainage ditches so I think I diverted the water away properly now. We also had a leaking skimmer all last summer and I think the ground was saturated from this swell. A combination that was not great when we had a quick freeze to the winter. I was worried if I replaced a third of the base with grout only and when I overlapped the joint would it break away from the vermiculite.
I would verm it. Grout will crack easily theres no give. Verm has some flexibility that's why it's used. And its softer underfoot especially in the shallow end.
I haven't seen any shortages in product, if your anywhere near NJ I have about 12 pallets in the shop you can grab whatever amount you need at cost
I haven't seen any shortages in product, if your anywhere near NJ I have about 12 pallets in the shop you can grab whatever amount you need at cost
Thanks jimmythegreek for the offer I really appreciate it. Unfortunately I'm in Nova Scotia, Canada. I am finding it extremely hard to find the verm product anywhere around here.
Find a pool supply house near you. Theres always a place near a decent size city. They don't advertise the pool pros know where they are. Show up and ask nicely for some base material, as they usually dont sell to homeowners. But they will
Sounds like a plan. I appreciate all the help. Pool installations have been crazy around here this year so I hope someone has the stuff.