Plaster or paint: Pool resurfacing materials for your community pool

There are numerous pool resurfacing materials available for your pool makeover, and the quality of your selection directly corresponds to your return on investment. A community swimming pool not only promotes residents' health and amusement but also serves as the linchpin for gathering and celebrating during warm sunny days. However, a tarnished or damaged surface can deter its usage and truncate their enjoyment, especially when the rough surface leads to scrapes or cuts (Interested in Pool Safety Tips? – Click Here). As an HOA board member, it's essential to confront the reality - initiating a pool resurface might be your next crucial step.

So, how do you know when your pool needs to be resurfaced?

If you observe signs such as panel peeling or flaking, persistent rust stains (including browning), or surface damage like roughness and cracks, it could signal the need for a swimming pool resurface. Physical damage not only diminishes the visual appeal of your pool, but it can also impact its safety and leak resistance.

What material is used to replaster a pool?

Popular options for pool refinishing include plastering and painting. Both methods carry pros and cons, with the ideal choice varying based on several factors. For instance, the availability of specific materials may influence your decision. The climate is another consideration as it can impact the drying time after rainfall and different geographical locations experience varying levels of sunlight throughout the year. Budget also matters, particularly if planning a full-scale pool refinish as opposed to minor maintenance. (Hopefully, your reserve study has helped you plan for this expense.)

Knowing the facts can make it easier to choose the best resurfacing option for your community’s unique needs. To help you understand the pros and cons of plaster versus paint, we checked in with local commercial swimming pool specialists. A great HOA management company can also offer guidance and refer you to a dependable pool professional in your part of California.

Plaster

The real trick with plaster is preparation. And that’s one reason you must ensure you’re working with a skilled plasterer who doesn’t cut corners.
 
Pros:

• It lasts. When done right, a plaster pool resurface can last up to 15 years. Adding glass beads, quartz, or pebbles can help it last even longer.
   
• It looks nice. Though there are a number of attractive options available with plaster, such as polished finishes and colored or exposed aggregate. These added elements can also create striking looks that will make your community pool one-of-a kind.
   
• It doesn’t require waiting. With plaster, you don’t need a perfectly dry surface to get started – a real plus in damp or rainy areas.

Cons:

• It’s time-consuming to apply. There are several preparation steps that you simply cannot bypass if you want plaster to last, including water blasting and applying a special bonding coat.
   
• It breaks down over time. Because plaster is porous, water will eventually start seeping in slowly. As a result, plaster pool surfaces require regular maintenance.
   
• It is affected by water chemistry. You must be diligent about keeping the water chemistry of your pool just right. Otherwise, the plaster can become mottled or turn white.

Paint

If you haven’t waited too long to resurface, you might consider painting. Paint bases for resurfacing include epoxy, rubber, and acrylic.
 
Pros:

• It comes in a variety of colors. Whether you want a traditional look or not, you have more choices with paint than you do with plaster.
   
• It has a nice finish. With paint, the finish is usually smooth and seamless.
   
• It can last. The most dependable paint for pools is epoxy, which can last up to 10 years.
   
• It is less expensive. In general, painting costs less than plaster.

Cons:

• It can be short-lived.  Unless you use epoxy-based paint, you won’t get the longevity you might like.
   
• It can involve a lot of preparation. If your pool was previously painted, you’ll have to water blast to remove the old paint. Epoxy paints also need catalysts and hardeners, which need to be precisely mixed.
   
• It requires wait time. Not only do you need to wait until the surface has been dry for five days before you begin painting, but you also need to wait an additional three days after painting to be sure the new coat has dried sufficiently.
   
• It can peel and blister. Several factors can cause your paint to peel or blister. Poor paint application, debris or contaminants, and improper pH balance are just some of the culprits.

How Often Does a Pool Need to be Resurfaced?

The choice of pool resurfacing materials could determine the frequency of resurfacing, which typically falls between every 10 to 15 years. It is crucial for boards and management to consult their reserve study to establish the projected lifespan of these materials, kick-starting the renovation process accordingly. To prevent major disruptions to residents' access to the amenity, it is advisable to schedule the work either before or after pool season.

To start the process, management will work on the scope of work and details for the board to review and approve prior to sending out to pool contractors. Once the Request for Proposal (RFP) is finalized and good to go, management will identify at least 3 to 5 qualified pool contractors to send the RFP to. The RFP should include the scope of work, any information on start and end dates, due date for bids, working hours, etc. Management may organize a bid work for the contractors to come out, view the worksite, and ask any questions.

It is important to keep residents informed throughout the pool resurfacing process.

To ensure residents are kept informed on the project, the board and management should send out communications to the community letting them know a contractor has been selected as well as providing the estimated start and completion dates for the project, and how this will affect their use of the amenity. It is important to communicate each step of the project, especially if there are any delays. Photos of the project can be helpful as well so that residents feel that they are a part of it and can visually see the progress that has been made. Transparency is key in helping to decrease homeowner questions and concerns.  
 
Ensuring clear communication with community members during the pool refurbishment process is key. The management and board should send out information to the community about the chosen contractor, expected start/end dates for the project, and how this might impact on their access to facilities during its renovation. This promotes transparency, helping homeowners lessen their queries and worries about ongoing renovations in their surroundings.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct pool resurfacing materials is not a one-size-fits-all decision, as we can clearly see. Each community or property has its unique demands, and a single choice doesn't necessarily cater to all. Therefore, it becomes critical to have a comprehensive consultation with your property manager. Their extensive knowledge and connections in the industry can help you locate a proficient pool professional. This expert can properly evaluate your circumstances and consequently recommend the most suitable pool resurfacing materials. By doing so, you'll ensure long-lasting durability and optimal performance for your swimming pool. So, remember, the key to a perfect pool surface often lies in choosing the right professionals and the ideal pool resurfacing materials. Consult with your property manager to find a pool professional who can offer the best option for you.

Interested in learning more? Contact us today! 

Disclaimer: This article is provided for information purposes only. Speak with a qualified engineer or contractor.