Questions

&

Answers

F.A.Q. (full list) Alphabetical by Problem Type
This section is created so you can review questions and answers to most questions in pool, tile and decking.

 

For years we have been striving to give our customers the best quality  products & service possible. Here you will find all the information you need to decide what products are  right for you pool maintenance & repair needs.

Once you have fond the right product, don't forget to visit our Video Library for proper usage and application techniques.

WHAT IS DIFFERENT ABOUT E-Z PATCH CEMENT REPAIR KITS?

They match the original surface better:

A) Color
B) Texture (type and amount of aggregate, etc.)

They bond better:

A) E-Z PATCH 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9 & 10 have a bottle of liquid polymer acrylic bonder/ admixture enclosed.
E-Z PATCH 4 (tile grout) has a bottle of Poly-Vinyl-Acetate.
B) E-Z PATCH l F.S., 3, 4 F.S., & 8 do not need liquid bonder because they have dry polymers.

E-Z PATCH repairs last longer:

A) All of our cement repair kits have Polymers and Pozzolans added.
B) The finest materials are used.

They are “user friendly” and easy to work with:

A) If a little too much or too little of the liquid acrylic bonder is put in the dry mix of an E-Z PATCH kit, it won’t affect the usefulness and quality of the kit.
B) The mixtures provide easier texturing, matching & workability.

Anchoring Cement

Does E-Z Patch 8 set (firm) up quickly?

Yes, depending on the temperature and humidity.

Does E-Z Patch 8 expand when setting up?

Yes

Can you apply textured cement topping or paint over E-Z Patch 8?

Yes

Can I use E-Z Patch 8 with masonry dye?

Adding masonry dye to the dry mix will not alter it's properties. It's best to start with a small test mix and add a small amount of water to it, to determine how much dye you will need. Remember to also wet the surface you are trying to match so that you are matching “wet to wet” to determine color.

Cantilever Edge Repairs

Will E-Z Patch 6 work if applied at a severe angle or upside down?

Yes. It is formulated to help prevent sagging and drooping when applied properly.

How thick can E-Z Patch 6 be applied?

1 ½ “ is the recommended maximum for a single layer. It may be applied up to 3” thick, by applying 2 or more layers. Be sure to allow a few minutes setting time between layers.

Is it better to apply a thin layer of E-Z Patch 6, rubbing it onto the surface prior to applying thicker layers?

Yes, this will ensure a better bond (adhesion).

Can E-Z Patch 6 be tinted?

Yes. Adding masonry dye to the dry mix will not alter it's properties. It's best to start with a small test mix and add a small amount of water to it, to determine how much dye you will need. Remember to also wet the surface you are trying to match so that you are matching “wet to wet” to determine color.

Concrete Repairs

What colors does E-Z Patch 6 come in?

It is currently offered in a grey color.

Coping Stone Repairs

Does E-Z Patch 5 come in colors?

It only comes in white but it can be colored with any masonry dye. Adding masonry dye to the dry mix will not alter it's properties. It's best to start with a small test mix and add a small amount of water to it, to determine how much dye you will need. Remember to also wet the surface you are trying to match so that you are matching “wet to wet” to determine color.

Can E-Z Patch 5 also be used to replace a large piece of Coping Stone that is missing?

Yes. Our formula works great for large and small repairs. You could actually use it to re-create an entire coping stone, if needed.

Expansion Joint Foam Strip Installations - Prior to Rubber Joint Sealants

Why use foam strips between existing concrete, (brick, etc.) and new concrete prior to installing new concrete?

It is always advisable to install a foam cushion between these surfaces to help prevent damaging pressure at these edges, caused by ground movement. It is also a good idea to install a good rubber expansion joint sealant (E-Z Joint Seal 23) to seal the top of the expansion joint so water will not penetrate the joint and get under the concrete causing more ground movement problems. the rubber expansion joint also looks better and prevents leaves, insects, etc. from getting into the joint.

Expansion Joint Replacement

I had my expansion joints replaced using a product other than E-Z Joint Seal 23 (E-Z Patch 23) and the rubber got hard and split allowing water to penetrate and looked bad after 3 years. Unfortunately I now have to replace the expansion joint rubber again! How long would your product last?

Our expansion joint rubber has a 50 year life expectancy and is UV stable (the sun's ultra violet rays do not affect it). it stays flexible and does not dry out and become stiff or hard like the other products.

 

When do I need to replace my expansion joints with rubber as opposed to “re-capping” them with a U shaped plastic expansion joint?

You can use a plastic “re-cap” if your existing plastic expansion joints are only cracked with small breaks or holes in them. If any of your plastic expansion joints are deteriorated more than that, you will have to replace them with rubber.

I have problems with leaves, etc. getting into my expansion joints. They are hard to keep cleaned out. I also have concerns about water going into the joints and causing accelerated ground movement problems. Do you have a product that will solve this problem?

Yes, we have E-Z Joint Seal in 23 self leveling and also E-Z Joint Seal 25 in non-self leveling, that is ideal for vertical surfaces and steps. Both are available in 6 colors.

 

Can I apply colored sand to your E-Z Joint Seal Expansion Joint Rubber when I install it to better match the rock next to it?

Yes. You can apply sand to our rubber if you apply it before the surface “skins over” (before the surface is no longer sticky.

 

Flexible Crack Repairs

How is E-Z Patch 24 “Elastic Crack Preventer” applied?

It is a rubber liquid that is applied over the already repaired crack using a paint brush. 2 coats are recommended.

What surfaces can be applied over E-Z Patch 24?

You can apply any paint or cement deck texturing, plaster, etc. over it.

Does E-Z Patch 24 really make a difference in eliminating crack problems?

Since it's introduction, in our swimming pool renovation dept., we have noticed a 75% reduction in crack warranty problems.

E-Z Patch, not just for swimming pools.

Glazed Ceramic Tile Repairs

I have a few chips and cracks in my Ceramic Tile. I can no longer obtain any more tiles that will match them. Replacing them all is much to costly . Will E-Z Patch 15 solve my problem?

Yes. It is designed and formulated specifically for this type of repair. Proper application will improve the appearance and save expense.

How do I find out what color of E-Z Patch 15 will match my tiles?

Over 100 pre-mixed colors are available. The color chart/ordering page is a good place to start.

How long does it take E-Z Patch 15 to dry?

It usually takes 1 hour to dry enough to be able to take a shower, wipe the counter top or to be walked on.

Pebble Plaster Repairs

What does “above water repairs” mean exactly?

It only means that the repair must be done after the pool water is lowered below the area to be repaired. Water may be refilled the next day. It does not mean that after the repair is done that water can never be constantly on the surface (as in the case of repairs done to the inside of a pool).

Do repairs using E-Z Patch 9 last long?

All of our cement repair kits, including E-Z Patch 9, are made with the finest ingredients. they also have polymers and pozzalans added.

In very hot weather, how can I slow down the setting of your product so it does not rush me?

You can use cold water when mixing the repair material. Also, you can place the bucket (you mix the material in) in a larger pan or bucket and put ice water into the larger pan or bucket. This will cool down the cement mix and give you more time. Other things you can do are keeping the mixed cement in the shade as much as possible and dampen the substrate (area to be repaired) just before applying the cement repair. Don’t forget to check the mixed cement and add some water and remix it as it starts to thicken in the bucket.

In very cold weather, how can I speed-up the setting of your product?

You can use hot water when mixing the repair material. Also, after the repair is done, you can use a hot air blower to dry out the repair more quickly.

3. Can I adjust the color of your product?

Yes, you can make it lighter by adding a little white cement or dry Titanium Dioxide white colorant. Also, dry or liquid masonry dye can be added to any of our cement type repair materials. Remember to match “wet to wet” to determine color match = make sure patching material is wet and wet the old existing surface to be matched.

4. The existing pebble surface has a lot of mineral deposits on it which changed the surface color to more of a gray color. How do I get the new repair to match the existing surface?

A. You can use a different color of Pebble Repair that better matches the existing surface. Many people use our E-Z Patch 9 in a Blue/Gray color to repair pools that originally were a blue color.
B. Another way to match the repair color to the existing surrounding pebble color is to “stain” the new repair. First do the repair completely using the original pebble color. Allow the new repair to dry for at least 15 minutes. To create a “gray stain” mixture, mix a small amount of black masonry dye into some white cement. Next add about ½ water to ½ liquid cement bonder/admixture and mix to a runny consistency. Put some water on the older existing pebble surface and then put a small amount of the “gray stain” that you just mixed up also onto the surface. If the “gray stain” does not match the mineral deposit color on the old surface, just sparingly add some more black dye to the “gray stain” mixture and remix. Then test the color to the old pebble surface again until you get a match. Now, using a sponge or paint brush, lightly apply the “gray stain” to

Plaster Repairs

Can E-Z Patch 1 and E-Z Patch 1 F.S. be color matched to my existing surface?

Yes. Adding masonry dye to the dry mix will not alter it's properties. It's best to start with a small test mix and add a small amount of water to it, to determine how much dye you will need. Remember to also wet the surface you are trying to match so that you are matching “wet to wet” to determine color.

What product should I use to do a underwater plaster repair?

E-Z Patch 1 F.S. Is formulated for being applied underwater.

Can E-Z Patch 1 F.S. be applied above water?

Yes. E-Z Patch 1 F.S. is a fast setting plaster repair commonly used by people that want to spend less time repairing pool plaster.

I need to repair my pool plaster and then paint it. What product should I use?

E-Z Patch 1 F.S. is designed for this. E-Z Patch 1 is not.

I am new at repairing pools. What product should I use to repair my white pool plaster? E-Z Patch 1 or E-Z Patch 1 F.S. (Fast Set)?

We suggest using E-Z Patch 1 for repairing pool plaster after you have lowered the water because it will not rush you. However if you are going to do the repair underwater or if you are going to paint the pool plaster after you repair it, I suggest using E-Z Patch 1 F.S. Check out our Video Training Library and you won't be novice for long.

I like using E-Z Patch 1 F.S. but sometimes in the high heat of the summer it sets-up more quickly than I would like. Is there some way to get it to have a slower set time when needed?

Yes. You can add up to 25% of the dry mix (not the enclosed acrylic bonder) from the E-Z Patch1 to the E-Z Patch 1 F.S. to make it set-up slower.

Pooldeck Coatings

What is different about your product E-Z Pooldeck Coating compared to other deck coatings?

Our coating (paint) for decks is the best formula we have found in the nation for ease of application and longevity, with 45% acrylic & 3% epoxy formula. It is a non-skid coating that is barely visible and is not harsh on your feet. we have gone back to inspect jobs even done 11 years before and found them to be perfect!

Pooldeck Repairs

E-Z Patch 2 be used to repair any type of Pooldeck texture surface?

Yes.

How thick can E-Z Patch 2 be applied and can it also be used to “float out” or level an area?

It is designed to be applied approx. ¼” thick without cracking but can be applied thicker if needed but it will have some shrinkage cracks that will not affect the strength.

Quartz Plaster Repairs

Even with all your 14 colors available for the E-Z Patch 10, on rare occasion I have run across a custom colored plaster cement that someone has mixed up special for a customer. Can your product be colored?

Yes. Adding masonry dye to the dry mix will not alter it's properties. It's best to start with a small test mix and add a small amount of water to it, to determine how much dye you will need. Remember to also wet the surface you are trying to match so that you are matching “wet to wet” to determine color.

Rebar Rust Repairs

Does your E-Z Patch 7 work underwater?

Yes. If you wait until it starts to stiffen (it is a fairly fast set mixture) and then immediately put it into a plastic “baggie” and take it underwater to do the rust repair.

Does E-Z Patch 7 really save a lot of time when making a rust problem repair?

Yes. With our product, you do not have to cut out the rusted rebar steel. Competitive products that require cutting, means spending a lot of time cleaning-up every metal particle from the saw cut. Any metal filing, even tiny ones, created from saw cutting will turn into a rust spot on the plaster if not removed.

Repairing tile floors are no problem for  E-Z Patch

Saltillo Type Mexican Tile Repairs

Saltillo Tiles are varied in color. How do I match the colors when I do repairs to them?

Usually you will need to purchase both E-Z Patch 13 and E-Z Patch 14 to match your tile colors. You can mix both colors together when needed to make the proper color match.

How large of a chip or crack can your product repair?

It will repair any size crack or chip.

After using you product, can I apply a sealer and or wax over the repair?

Yes, but you must wait for it to dry first.

Tile Grout Repairs

I want to repair a colored grout on my pool using a flexible neutral cure silicone rubber grout but it is a grey color. Do you have colors available?

Yes. You can use our E-Z PATCH (E-Z JOINT SEAL) 25 to grout with. They are available in white, tan, light grey, dark grey, redwood and black colors.

I have a crack at the top grout joint of my tiles. It is white in color. What is the best product to use for this repair?

E-Z Patch 22 In White Color, or E-Z Patch 20 in White Color is what we recommend for a flexible long lasting repair.

Tile Repairs

What do I use to reset tiles that keep coming off and some tiles keep cracking?

We suggest using our flexible neutral cure silicone rubber which is available in E-Z Patch 20 or E-Z Patch 22 with E-Z Patch 21 scrubber grout pads.

What product do I use to reset my pool tiles with?

You can use our cement products (E-Z Patch 3 to set with and E-Z Patch 4 to grout with) or you can use our flexible neutral cure silicone rubber products (E-Z Patch 20 or E-Z Patch 22 with E-Z Patch 21 scrubber grout pads).

I need to do a tile and grout repair under water because I cannot drain the water level down to do the repair. What products do you have for this?

You can use E-Z Patch 4 F.S. to set and grout the tiles underwater.

I want to repair my tiles but I have colored grout on my pool in a tan color. Do you have colors available?

Yes. You can use our E-Z Patch 22 or E-Z Patch 20 to set the tiles with, then you can use our E-Z Patch (E-Z Joint Seal) 25 to grout with. They are available in white, tan, light grey, dark grey, redwood and black colors.

I have a pool with a spa. I have problems with the curved spa dam wall that is tiled. It has tiles along with 2” of cement that has broken loose and is protruding out due to expansion movement. What can I use to repair this problem?

You will first have to remove the loose cement and tiles. You can fit them back into place (like a jigsaw puzzle) but you usually will have to trim off some cement to get them to fit back into place (you can rent a 4” grinder with a diamond blade to use to do this). After you get the pieces to fit back into place, and all surfaces are clean, you can use E-Z Patch 20 or 22 to reset the pieces of tile and or cement back into place. After that, you can use E-Z Patch 20 or 22 (if the grout color is white) or E-Z Joint Seal (E-Z Patch) 25 (if you have a colored grout) to grout with. E-Z Patch 20 comes with release liquid (liquid dishwashing soap) and scrubber pads for grouting. If you use E-Z Patch 22 or 25 you will have to purchase the scrubber pads for grouting separately by also purchasing E-Z Patch 21.

Underwater Repairs

I need to do a underwater plaster repair involving a rust problem that is bleeding thru. What do I use?

This problem requires a combination of products. First chip off all rust and remove it from the pool so you do not get rust stains all over on your plaster. Next, use E-Z Patch 7. Mix and wait until it starts to stiffen (it is a fairly fast set mixture) and then immediately put it into a plastic “baggie” and take it underwater to do the rust repair. Apply E-Z Patch 7 about 3/8” down so you can apply enough E-Z Patch 1 F.S. over it. Apply E-Z Patch 1 F.S. the same way over the E-Z Patch 7 and trowel smooth (See our instructional videos).

What do I use to repair tiles underwater?

You can use E-Z Patch 4 F.S. to set and grout the tiles underwater.

Vinyl Liner Repairs

I have used other vinyl liner repair kits to do repairs under-water but have had problems with residue from the product gumming up my hair, burning my eyes and sometimes not sticking. The patch just floated up to the surface! What is different about your product?

Our E-Z Patch28 has no residue to gum-up your hair or burn your eyes. it also usually does not need to be used with a patch. It always sticks and you have about 5 minutes time to use it. You will only need a patch (we include clear vinyl patch in each kit, just in case) if you have a repair that is wide and has a lot of water traveling thru it or at a seam. E-Z Patch 28 does not need a patch used for small cuts and holes.

What can I use for repairing my pool cover? It has a cut in it.

Use E-Z Patch 28.

I need to repair a leak at my pool light where the wire/cord from the pool light goes thru a hole in the pool light metal “container”. The pool light container is shaped like a “dome”. What do I use?

Use E-Z Patch 28. It works underwater or above water and will seal the leak.

 
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