Resurfacing a swimming pool is one of the most significant maintenance investments an Austin homeowner will make. The Texas sun, combined with chemical exposure, eventually wears down even the best plaster, requiring a fresh application to restore the pool’s beauty and structural integrity. However, the process is delicate. It requires a specific blend of artistry, chemistry, and construction expertise.
Unfortunately, many homeowners unknowingly make errors during the hiring and planning process that lead to subpar results, rough textures, blotchy colors, or even delamination (where the plaster separates from the shell). Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do, starting with avoiding Common Mistakes When Hiring a Pool Plastering Austin.
1. Prioritizing Price Over Value
The allure of the lowest bid is the most common trap. If a quote is significantly lower than the others, there is a reason.
The Risk: Low-cost providers often cut corners. They may use inferior aggregate mixes, skip the essential “bond coat” (which glues the new plaster to the old surface), or employ unskilled day laborers instead of trained artisans.
The Reality: A cheap plaster job that fails in two years is far more expensive than a quality job that lasts for fifteen. Always look for value, a fair price for high-quality materials and proven expertise, rather than the bottom dollar.
2. Failing to Verify Specific Plastering Experience
General pool maintenance (cleaning, pump repair) is completely different from pool plastering. Just because a company cleans pools does not mean they are qualified to resurface them.
The Risk: Hiring a generalist often leads to application errors. Plastering is a race against time; the material sets quickly, and the crew must be highly coordinated to trowel it to a smooth, watertight finish.
The Reality: You need a specialist. Ask specific questions about their plastering crew: Are they in-house employees or subcontractors? How many pools did they plaster last year?
3. Ignoring the Importance of Prep Work
The new plaster is only as good as the surface it is applied to. The most critical stage of the project happens before a single bucket of plaster is mixed.
The Risk: If the old surface is not properly prepared, meaning loose plaster is chipped out and the shell is thoroughly cleaned and roughened, the new plaster will not bond. It will eventually sound hollow and pop off.
The Reality: Ensure your contract details the prep method. Hydroblasting or thorough chip-out are preferred methods in Austin to ensure a mechanical bond.
4. Not Understanding the Curing Process (Start-Up)
Many homeowners assume that once the crew leaves, the job is done. This is a fatal error. The first 28 days of water chemistry are vital for the plaster to cure properly.
The Risk: If the water pH is not managed perfectly during the first month, the plaster can develop scale (making it rough like sandpaper) or become etched and discolored.
The Reality: Clarify who is responsible for the “start-up.” Does the contractor handle it, or do they give you instructions? If you are not comfortable acting as a chemist, hire a pro for this first month.
5. Overlooking Material Selection
Not all plaster is created equal. Choosing a material based solely on a photo without understanding its durability is a mistake.
The Risk: Standard white plaster is affordable but soft. In Austin’s climate, it may not last as long as you hope.
The Reality: Consider upgrading to quartz or pebble finishes. While the upfront cost is higher, their resistance to chemical staining and longevity often make them the smarter financial choice.
Avoiding the Pitfalls
Homeowners who educate themselves on the process are far more likely to be satisfied with the result. There are Common Mistakes When Hiring a Pool Plastering Austin that can be easily avoided with due diligence.
Common pool plastering mistakes include improper surface prep, poor application timing, or choosing the wrong finish. Hiring experienced professionals like Clear Solutions Pool Plastering LLC avoids these issues and ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish with no costly do-overs.
By focusing on expertise, detailed contracts, and proper material selection, you can transform your tired pool into a sparkling oasis that adds value to your home for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why is my new pool plaster rough?
A: Slight texture is normal, especially with pebble finishes. However, if standard plaster feels like coarse sandpaper, it may be due to “scale” (calcium deposits) caused by improper water balance during the startup, or poor troweling technique by the installer.
Q: How long should I wait to swim after plastering?
A: Most contractors recommend waiting until the pool is full and the initial chemicals have been added and circulated, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours. However, heaters should not be used for at least 10 to 14 days to allow the plaster to cure without thermal stress.
Q: Does a warranty cover discoloration?
A: Typically, no. Most plaster warranties cover structural failure, such as delamination (peeling). Discoloration or mottling is often considered a cosmetic issue or a result of water chemistry maintenance, which is the homeowner’s responsibility.