Update-chalking paint

[danospool]

OK, so any opinions on paint versus replastering? Which would offer a better useful, relatively trouble-free product lifetime if properly maintained?

Dan

[PoolDoc]

Plaster life expectancy -- with a high quality job -- is often given as 10 years. I've seen it last longer than that, but it depends on water chemistry, installer skill . . . and some unknown factors.

Plaster composition has changed over the past 25 years, due to a variety of regulations. There's no final conclusion about the effects of these changes, but the consensus seems to be the current composition is not as durable as what was installed in older pools.

Paint life varies. Kelley Technical lists their epoxies as up to 7 years. But when *I* have used it -- heavy coat of Gunzite followed by a heavy coat of Zeron -- I've gotten 5 years. The results I've seen from OTHER contractors trying to use it have ranged from 1 - 3 years, either because of application errors, or because they were trying to go too thin.

Using epoxy paint requires LESS skill than plaster. But, plaster can be applied under a wider range of weather conditions than epoxy paint can be, and application requires are not quite so picky.

So . . . neither choice is 'ideal'.

One point to consider: you can do epoxy yourself, if you follow the directions. You cannot do a good job with plaster yourself; the application skill has to be acquired with considerable practice in mixing and using a trowel rapidly and effectively.

[danospool]

I should explain that our financial situation was significantly improved recently, that is why replastering is now a viable option for us. I have no illusions about trying something like that myself. I really don't want to get back down in that pool and work my backside off again stripping paint, which is why we will be hiring a pool renovation contractor to sandblast the old finish off no matter what new finish we pick. We are leaning towards replastering(done by a pool renovation contractor) because it seems to promise the longest life if cared for properly. If anyone knows of another finish that offers longer life, I'd be glad to hear about it.

Dan

[TheGoose]

Tried the painting route a few years ago. Big mistake. Was not cheap, and started flaking after the first season. It was only a temporary fix, plus it added more cost to the plaster job.

Had the pool replastered two years later for $2500. Best money I've spent yet on the pool, made a huge difference in keeping the water clear and the enjoyment of the pool. Bad plaster makes for a bad pool.

Have you gotten bids for the plaster? You might be suprised. Also, get multiple bids. We got bids from $2000 up to $5000.