Avoiding Pool Plaster Delamination
If you’re a proud pool owner you know how vital it is to keep your backyard oasis ready for the Tulsa sizzling summer days. With hot summers and occasional cold spells, your pool’s plaster endures a fair amount of stress. One issue you never want to encounter is pool plaster delamination—small “blisters,” nodules, or pockets that form when the plaster layer separates from the underlying surface. Below, we’ll explore some of the causes this problem, how it manifests, and what you can do to repair it and keep your pool in top shape.
What Doesn’t Cause Delamination
Contrary to popular belief, delamination is not caused by improper pool chemistry or by flaws in your routine maintenance. While water balance is crucial for preventing stains or corrosion, it generally won’t cause layers of plaster to pull away from the substrate. So even if you’ve been diligent about common maintenance and water chemistry… you’re not the blame if your pool begins showing signs of delamination. This type of damage typically stems from how the pool was plastered in the first place.
Why Delamination Happens
Pool plaster delamination is almost always linked to poor workmanship or subpar materials used during the plastering process. Even if everything looked perfect when you first filled the pool, small errors or shortcuts in the construction can remain hidden. Over time, these small issues lead to separation between the plaster layer and the shotcrete or gunite shell underneath.
Early vs. Delayed Signs
- Immediate Effects: Occasionally, you’ll see evidence of sloppy plaster work early on, such as cracking, bulging, or flaking soon after installation.
- Long-Term Wear: In many cases, the delamination doesn’t become noticeable until years later, when wear and tear—plus temperature changes—expose flaws beneath the surface.
Repairing Pool Plaster Delamination
If you’ve spotted nodules or blisters, or if your plaster is visibly peeling away, you’re likely dealing with delamination. Unfortunately, once those signs appear, more nodules are typically on the way. Here’s what to do:
- Confirm the Diagnosis
A professional pool contractor can verify whether you’re experiencing delamination or a lesser cosmetic issue. They’ll also check to see if there are any isolated areas versus widespread damage. - Resurface the Pool Plaster
If the delamination is extensive, the most reliable way to address it is to resurface the entire pool. This process involves draining the pool, chipping or removing the failing plaster, and then applying a new layer of high-quality plaster. - Hire a Professional, thuis is not likely to be something you are able to accomplish on your own: Attempting a DIY fix can lead to repeated delamination if the underlying shell isn’t properly prepared or if the plaster application isn’t done under the right conditions.
- Choose Quality Materials: Insist on high-grade plaster or a durable alternative finish. This investment helps prevent similar issues and can extend the life of your pool for years.
- Refill and Balance
Once the new plaster is properly cured, your pool contractor will refill the pool. At this stage, proper water balancing is critical to protect your new finish and maintain warranty terms.
The Tulsa Climate Factor
Tulsa experiences hot summers and occasional freezing temperatures during winter. These seasonal swings cause expansion and contraction of your pool’s shell and surfaces, placing extra stress on the plaster. Though this alone won’t likely cause delamination if the plaster was applied correctly, it can accelerate existing flaws and make delamination appear sooner.
Avoiding Future Issues
The best way to steer clear of delamination is to do things right from the start:
- Proper Installation: Work with a reputable pool builder or plastering professional in Tulsa who has a track record of quality projects.
- Regular Inspections: Even if your plaster still looks solid, have it checked occasionally—especially if you notice small cracks or rough patches.
- Timely Resurfacing: If you do see nodules or blisters forming, don’t wait. Address the problem promptly to prevent further damage.
Final Thoughts
Pool plaster delamination isn’t something you cause through normal care. It’s more often tied to subpar plastering work that didn’t stand the test of time. While it’s frustrating to discover nodules forming in your pool, the remedy typically involves resurfacing to ensure a stable, long-lasting finish.
If you’re noticing signs of delamination—or want to keep your Tulsa pool in prime condition, we hope that we will be the Tulsa pool professional you trust. Investing in a quality repair now will help you beat the Oklahoma heat for many summers to come, ensuring a sparkling pool that’s as safe as it is beautiful.