Essential Guide to Pool Plaster Repair: Keeping Your Swimming Pool in Top Shape

If you own a concrete swimming pool or spa, maintaining its plaster finish is crucial to prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs. A reliable pool plaster repair kit, such as those from E-Z Patch, allows you to address cracks, delaminations, and surface damage effectively. These kits contain polymer-modified cement-based mixtures designed specifically for repairing pool plaster, available in both an underwater (Fast Set) and also an above-water (regular set). Available in many different types and colors.

What is Pool Plaster?

Pool plaster is the waterproof finishing layer applied to the interior of concrete or gunite swimming pools. It is typically a blend of white Portland cement, different aggregates, and sometimes cement dye, polymers or additives to enhance durability. Modern formulations, such as those in E-Z Patch Repair Kits, also include special modified materials for better bonding and longevity. Unlike vinyl liners used in above-ground or fiberglass pools, plaster provides a hard, durable surface but can wear over time due to chemical imbalances or environmental factors.

When Should Your Pool Plaster Be Repaired?

It’s best to address pool plaster issues early, as neglect can lead to leaks, structural damage, or the need for a full replastering. Here are key signs that indicate it’s time for repair:

- Stains and Discoloration: Stains from minerals, metals, algae, or improper water chemistry can appear. These may signal etching or deposits that weaken the surface.
- Roughness or Etching: If the plaster feels rough or pitted, it’s often due to acidic water (low pH) dissolving the cement. This can pose possible injury risks and accelerate further deterioration.
- Cracking or Fissures: Hairline cracks, larger fissures, or thinning areas can result from shrinkage, settling, or chemical imbalances. Ignoring them may lead to water loss or delamination where the plaster separates from the pool shell.
- Peeling or Delamination: Low calcium hardness or pH levels can break down the plaster, causing layers to peel or bubble. Regular water testing is essential to prevent this.
- Rust Stains: Rust from rebar steel installed too close to the surface when the pool was built . Repair using E-Z Patch 7 F.S. first, then plaster repair over the E-Z Patch 7 F.S. repaired area.

Monitoring water chemistry—pH between 7.2-7.6, calcium hardness 200-400 ppm—and performing regular inspections can help catch these issues early.

How to Repair Pool Plaster

For Professionals or DIY enthusiasts, E-Z Patch offers user-friendly kits for concrete pool repairs. These are cement-based mixes and are designed for permanent fixes rather than temporary patches.

Identify the Damage Location and Type

Locate the affected area and determine if you are going to lower the water to do the repair or if you are going to do the repair underwater.

EXAMPLE: E-Z Patch 1 (regular set when water is lowered) or E-Z Patch 1 F.S. (Fast Set – for underwater or also when temperatures are 40 degrees F or less) is ideal for white or colored plaster.

For specialized finishes, use variants like E-Z Patch 9 or E-Z Patch 9 F.S. for pebble plaster, E-Z Patch 10 or E-Z Patch 10 F.S.for quartz plaster, E-Z Patch 11 or E-Z Patch 11 F.S. for glass bead plaster or E-Z Patch 12 or E-Z Patch 12 F.S. for “blended” combinations of aggregate mixtures.

We also have a vast selection of other Pool/Spa Repair Supplies!

FOR THE BEST RESULTS, PLEASE WATCH THE INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS ON OUR WEBSITE AT HTTPS://WWW.E-ZPATCH.COM (or YouTube) AND READ THE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE YOU START THE REPAIR

Summing Up

For an effective, easy-to-use solution, choose E-Z Patch Repair Supplies. Its time tested formulas ensure strong, lasting bonds with quick application, restoring your pool’s surfaces seamlessly. Available in various sizes and compatible with different plaster types, as well as many other types of Pool & Tile Repair products, it’s a go-to for Professional or DIY pool maintenance. Order today and enjoy a pristine pool without delays.

E-Z Patch, based in Cave Creek, AZ, specializes in swimming pool and tile repair supplies. We strive to deliver durable, aesthetically pleasing, and user-friendly materials, continually innovating with advanced formulas and cutting-edge technology to meet evolving needs.

Why Choose E-Z Patch?

As a leader in pool maintenance and repair innovations, E-Z Patch pushes technological boundaries to create superior solutions for pools and tiles. Our products are trusted for their quality, ease of use, and compatibility with various surfaces, for homeowners and pros alike.

Contact Us or call E-Z Patch at (888) 439-7282 for more information or view all our products here: Pool & Tile Repair Products