Our Company plasters quite a few pools annually. During that time, we have observed about every situation that could arise regarding stains or discolorations. Every effort has been made by our plaster crew to provide you with the finest interior pool finish possible. However, there are certain characteristics of pool plaster which you should be aware of. Plaster is not a slick “tile-like” finish. It is hand troweled as smooth as possible. The finish is not perfect or flawless. It is as flawless as hand troweling will permit. The underwater light will magnify small objects and flaws in the pool interior and make them appear many times larger that may give interior a wavy effect. This normal in all hand troweled surfaces. Your pool is plastered with raw mined materials and is not totally or completely white. As plaster is a cement product, some normal characteristics are inherent in the materials. Therefore, it is not unusual to have small black, gold, brown, etc., flocks throughout the interior finish. There is no reason for concern as there flecks are normal and will not affect the physical durability of the plaster. The pool interior may look blotchy and/or streaked for an extended period of time. This is normal and generally caused by the curing process and reaction of the chemicals in the filling water and/or the chemicals added to the water for sanitation. This is the natural curing process of the plaster and should not be construed as a defect. Several months may go by before the plaster cures to a fairly even shade of whiteness or color. Keep in mind that stains and discoloration are largely due to chemical imbalance and water conditions. It is imperative you take maximum care and caution concerning the maintenance of your pool. We will not be responsible for debris or other foreign material coming in contact with the plaster after we leave the job.
BLUE, GREEN OR BLACKISH STAINS: usually caused by excessive chemicals or improper application of pool chemicals.
YELLOW-BROWN STAINS: usually caused by dirt or iron in the water. Wet-or-dry sandpaper (100 grit) or a light acid wash will remove these stains.
SCALE BUILD-UP ON PLASTER SURFACE: scale is caused by various minerals which are often unnoticed until dirt or iron present in the water precipitates and may cause a grey or brownish discoloration. Scale must be sanded off and then the plaster lightly acid washed.
CHECKING, CRAZING OR SMALL CRACKS IN PLASTER: generally on the top of the steps, seats and next to line. Caused by wind or weather or a combination of both and cannot be prevented. This is normal in plastered pools and will not adversely affect the pool structure.
GREEN OR BROWN STAINS: (almost plant like) usually algae and may be removed by extra chlorination and concentrated brushing.
BLACK STAINS AROUND CHROME FITTINGS: usually caused by galvanization since the caused are very complex and variable. It is important you consult your pool serviceman.
BLACK VELVETY SPOTS ON PLASTER: usually back algae forming, consult your pool serviceman.
ETCHING OR PITTING: usually is caused by a drop of alkali, over a period of time which cannot be warranted.
COLORED FINISHES: Color finishes will streak and won’t come out. We do not recommend color finishes and are not responsible for them.
DARK COLORED FINISHES: has a tendency to streaked and makes the pool water hotter than lighter colored finishes. Color finishes will streak AND won’t come out. We do not recommend color finishes and are not responsible for them
