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If your swimming pool plaster is looking tired, faded or stained, or you simply want a fresh new colour, Cemcrete’s Pool Coating could be the perfect solution.
This affordable alternative to full replastering lets you revive the look of your pool without the heavy cost or disruption that comes with chipping out and replacing old plaster.
Before you get started, here are a few important things to know - such as how to prepare your pool correctly, when Pool Coating is suitable, and how to care for it afterwards.
This affordable alternative to full replastering lets you revive the look of your pool without the heavy cost or disruption that comes with chipping out and replacing old plaster.
Before you get started, here are a few important things to know - such as how to prepare your pool correctly, when Pool Coating is suitable, and how to care for it afterwards.
Where Can Pool Coating Be Used?
Pool Coating is specifically designed for use on pools that have been plastered with pool plaster (such as marbelite or Cemcrete’s PoolCrete). If you have a newly plastered pool, you’ll need to wait at least 9 months before applying Pool Coating to ensure the surface is fully cured and ready for coating.
This product is not suitable for pools finished with standard building plaster, oil-based or plastic-based paints, fresh cement, or fibreglass.
If you’re removing a fibreglass pool and considering using Pool Coating, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. The substrate must be a gunite surface and Pool Coating cannot be applied over brick or similar materials. The gunite must be assessed for structural integrity and shot-blasted to ensure all fibreglass is removed from its pores before the coating is applied.
Preparation - The Most Important Step
While applying Pool Coating is relatively straightforward, the preparation process is critical to ensure a successful and long-lasting finish. The prep work includes:
- Crack repairs (if needed)
- Acid washing
- Wire-brushing
- Neutralising the surface
These steps are necessary to create a good mechanical key for the Pool Coating to bond onto, similar in texture to P60-grit sandpaper.
If that sounds like your kind of Saturday morning challenge, grab your gloves, boots and goggles, and make use of the full application guides available on our website. If you’d rather leave it to the experts, Cemcrete can put you in touch with a recommended pool retailer who has the right team to handle the application for you.
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Priming & Applying the Coating Pool Coating is sold in a convenient twin-pack drum that includes both the powder and liquid components, giving you everything you need in one pack. Apply two coats using a large roof paint brush. The finish is smooth and fine-brushed, although it will not be completely uniform like standard acrylic paint. Cement-based coatings naturally vary in final appearance due to factors such as weather conditions, water content in the mix, curing and workmanship on the day of application. Allow the coating to cure for 6 full days before filling the pool. Important - Pool Coating is designed to remain fully submerged. Areas that are regularly exposed to air and sunlight (the waterline) can become stained or degrade over time due to contact with body oils, sunscreens or debris. To prevent this, mosaic tiles or similar materials should be installed at the waterline. |
Filling the Pool
On Day 7, after curing, you can fill your pool with water.
It’s crucial to follow Cemcrete’s Pool Coating Start-Up Guide during the first 22 days after filling. This ensures the coating cures properly underwater and remains durable.
Only after this 22-day period should you introduce your automatic pool cleaner.
Ongoing Water Maintenance
Water maintenance is key to preserving the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of your pool surface. If neglected, it can lead to staining, scaling, and long-term damage to the Pool Coating, including pitting and weakening of the surface.
Following these steps will help protect your pool surface and reduce the need for costly repairs down the line.
- Chemical Handling - Always pre-dilute acid and chlorine in a bucket of water before introducing them to the pool. Never add chemicals directly unless specifically instructed.
- Stain Prevention - Avoid leaving metal objects or plant debris on the pool floor, as these can cause permanent staining.
- Daily Brushing - Brush the pool surface daily and empty the weir basket regularly to prevent debris accumulation and organic staining.
- Filtration Maintenance - Backwash the filter weekly and perform an open backwash every few months to maintain optimal circulation and prevent dead zones.
- Chemical Balance - Do not overdose with acid or chlorine. Excess acid reduces alkalinity, while high chlorine levels may lead to surface discoloration and scaling.
- Gentle Treatment - Where feasible, opt for pH-neutral chlorine products (e.g., sodium dichloroisocyanurate) to minimize surface stress and prolong coating life.
Pool Coating is designed to be a long-lasting solution. However, if resurfacing is required, both the Pool Coating and the existing render to which it was applied must be completely removed down to the original pool shell. Only then can a new decorative coating (such as PoolCrete or BeadCrete), be applied.
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Why Choose Pool Coating? Available in 7 beautiful colours, Pool Coating gives you the flexibility to match your design aesthetic. (Please note: pricing may vary slightly depending on the colour you choose.) Pool Coating is a cost-effective, stylish and practical way to give your existing plastered pool a fresh new look. Whether you’re tackling the project yourself or working with a professional, the end result is a durable, revitalised surface with vibrant colour and reliable protection. With proper water maintenance, Pool Coating has a life expectancy of around 6 years, and often much longer. This makes it an ideal solution for a long-lasting refresh, or even a smart way to boost your home’s appeal if you’re preparing it for sale. Ready to get started? Click here to learn more about Pool Coating, or contact us to be connected with a pool retailer near you. |