Frequently Asked Questions for Pool & Tile Repair Supplies
E-Z Patch FAQs
1) Why is the minimum suggested thickness of repair material necessary?
Our suggested minimum depth comes from years of jobsite experience and testing. The proper depth ensures a strong bond and a long-lasting repair.
2) Do I need to drain my pool to make repairs?
For many repairs, no. The following kits can be used underwater: E-Z Patch® 1 F.S., 4 F.S., 7, 9 F.S., 10 F.S., 11 F.S., 12 F.S., and 28. These fast-set formulas are also ideal for quick above-water repairs when water is lowered below the area.
3) How do I repair a cantilevered edge on a pool deck?
Cantilevered edges can break on the underside and must be repaired against gravity. E-Z Patch® 6 includes instructions and materials to make upside-down edge repairs easier.
4) Can you help with vinyl liner pools?
Yes. E-Z Patch® 28 Clear Vinyl Liner Repair Sealant works underwater and above water, forms its own clear patch, and also bonds a vinyl patch (included). It’s excellent for plastic skimmer or light-fixture leak repairs.
5) How do I fix chips or cracks in glazed tile?
Use E-Z Patch® 15, color-matched to your tile, for discrete chip and crack repairs on glazed ceramic tile.
6) Do you have a solution for rebar rust?
Yes. E-Z Patch® 7 Rust Rebar Repair seals over rusted rebar—no cutting out old bars—helping prevent recurring rust issues.
7) How accurate are your color representations?
We maintain strict manufacturing standards, but screen settings vary. For critical matches, send a sample to our office for precise matching guidance.
8) What should I do differently in cold weather?
Use less water (unless dashing texture with E-Z Patch® 2), warm and dry the substrate, choose Fast-Set (F.S.) products, and mix with hot/warm water as appropriate.
9) What is the safest way to check color matching?
Before mixing and applying the repair material, make sure it is the right color and material match! It is sometimes hard to see exactly what the color will be from computer monitor screens. Take a small amount of dry material out of the repair kit and mix with water to be the consistency of “Putty”. Then, wet the existing surface that you are trying to match and compare the wet sample to the wet existing surface. If the material needs to be darker, add a very small amount of E-Z Patch Black Cement Dye and dry mix well. If the material needs to be lighter, add a very small amount of E-Z Patch Titanium Dioxide White Cement Colorant and dry mix well. Both colors are available on our website. You can also use any good cement dye. Repeat this process until the color match is satisfactory.
10) What makes E-Z Patch® repair kits different?
The large selection of colors and plaster types. Due to the top quality materials and bonders, they bond better, last longer and are user friendly.
11) Do you add handling charges or any other charges to the FedEx charges for shipping?
No we do not. Also the shipping charges are directly from FedEx on their “Live Rates” program. They are connected directly to our website check out and they alone set the cost for shipping according to where the product or products are shipped to.
Pool Plaster FAQs
1) Which plaster repairs can I do with E-Z Patch®?
Cracks, chips, hollow areas. small or large areas on most pool plaster.
2) How thick should a plaster patch be?
Follow the minimum thickness in the product instructions to achieve the intended strength and longevity.
3) Do I need a separate bonder for plaster repairs?
No. E-Z Patch® cement kits include an acrylic polymer bonder for improved adhesion.
4) Can I repair plaster underwater?
Yes—choose Fast-Set (F.S.) versions labeled for underwater use; otherwise lower water level as directed.
5) How do I color-match a plaster repair?
Test a small batch. Lighten with Titanium Dioxide or darken with Black Cement Dye until it blends with the surrounding surface. If needed, add any good colored dye. See the E-Z Patch website for full instructions.
6) What is the cure time before refilling or swimming?
Typically overnight depending on product and temperature. Always follow label instructions.
7) What surface preparation is required?
Remove loose material, clean thoroughly, roughen if needed, and pre-dampen (for cement repairs) before application.
8) How much area does a kit cover?
Coverage depends on kit size and patch depth. See individual product pages for approximate coverage.
9) Will the repair discolor over time?
Matched and properly cured repairs hold color well. Maintain balanced water chemistry to minimize staining or color shift.
10) Does the surface of the pool plaster change color over time?
Yes, usually due to the minerals in the water. As the water evaporates the minerals in the water do not, causing mineral deposits on the surface of the pool plaster. Sometimes evenly and sometimes not. Also sometimes the plaster will darken and sometimes it will lighten. This can usually be corrected by sanding and or an acid wash of the surface.
Pool Plaster, Tile & Deck Repair Supplies FAQs
1) How do I choose the right kit?
Compare your existing surface to the sample pictures on our website.
2) What sizes are available?
We offer multiple sizes for small patches to larger repairs—see each product page for options.
3) What tools will I need?
Typical tools: one bucket for mixing, one bucket for water, mixing trowel & sponge. For plaster & pooldeck repairs you may also need a round edge trowel. For pooldeck repairs you may also need a pooldeck dash brush. For tile repairs you may also need a tile notch trowel. Also, knee pads may be needed.
4) Are these products compatible with my surface?
Yes for most standard pool surfaces. Check product notes for any limitations before purchase.
5) How should I store unused material?
Keep sealed, dry, and away from extreme temperatures. Follow label storage guidance.
6) What is the shelf life?
Shelf life varies by product – see lid for expiration date.
7) Do you offer bulk or contractor pricing?
Qualified pros and distributors may be eligible. Verify your account to access discounts.
8) What is your return policy?
See our Return Policy page for eligibility, timelines, and instructions.
9) How quickly do orders ship?
Most orders received before 11:00 am Mountain Standard Time are shipped the same day.
10) Do you offer technical support?
Yes – email details and photos of your issue and our experienced Tech will recommend the right products and steps.
Pool Deck & Patio FAQs
1) What’s the best coating for a pool deck?
Acrylic, non-skid, epoxy-fortified coatings designed specifically for pool decks provide durability, stain resistance, and traction.
2) Do I need a primer?
Many acrylic coatings adhere well to properly prepped surfaces without primer. Check your product label.
3) How do I prep the deck before coating?
Clean thoroughly, remove loose or failing coatings, repair cracks/holes, and ensure the surface is sound and dry.
4) Is the finish non-skid?
Yes—look for non-skid, low-sheen acrylic formulas engineered for wet-area traction.
5) What is the coverage per gallon?
Typically ~250–350 sq. ft. per gallon depending on texture and porosity.
6) How long before I can walk on the deck?
Light foot traffic is often okay after ~24 hours; full cure and furniture replacement may take longer. Follow label directions.
7) Will lighter colors feel cooler?
Yes—lighter shades reflect more heat and usually feel cooler underfoot.
8) Can I repair cantilevered edges?
Yes—use a repair kit formulated for edges (e.g., E-Z Patch® 6) and follow the directions for shaping the profile.
9) How often should I recoat?
Depends on sun exposure and wear. Inspect annually; many decks benefit from recoating every few years.
10) How do I clean and maintain the coating?
Use mild cleaners, avoid harsh solvents or aggressive pressure washing, and address stains promptly.
Tile FAQs
1) Can I replace a single loose or missing tile?
Yes—use a compatible tile setting adhesive, allow set time, then apply grout to finish the joint.
2) Do you have underwater tile grout?
Fast-Set (F.S.) grout options are made for underwater use. Confirm “underwater” on the product label.
3) How do I repair chips in glazed tile?
Use a color-matched chip repair compound (e.g., E-Z Patch® 15) for glazed ceramic tile.
4) Which comes first—adhesive or grout?
Set the tile with adhesive first. After it sets, apply grout to fill the joints.
5) How long until grout is fully cured?
Cure times vary—often 24–48 hours before submersion or heavy use. Check the label.
6) Can I set tiles underwater?
Some products are rated for underwater application; verify on the label and follow underwater prep steps exactly.
7) Why does grout crack or fall out?
Movement, poor prep, or insufficient cure cause failure. Ensure a stable, clean substrate and follow cure times.
8) How do I handle expansion joints?
Use flexible sealants where movement is expected; avoid rigid grout in true expansion joints.
9) How can I prevent efflorescence?
Use proper mix ratios, allow full cure, and maintain balanced water chemistry to minimize mineral deposits.
10) Will color-matched grout stay consistent?
Yes when mixed and cured per instructions. Chemistry and cleaners can affect long-term appearance.
Long-Lasting Pool Deck Surface Repairs FAQs
1) What makes deck repairs last longer?
Proper prep, quality non-skid acrylic formulas, and following cure times are key to durability.
2) Are these coatings UV and weather resistant?
Yes—formulated for outdoor, high-sun environments with stain and wear resistance.
3) Do lighter colors stay cooler?
Yes—lighter shades reflect more heat and usually feel cooler.
4) Can I spot-repair high-traffic areas?
Yes—clean, abrade, and feather into surrounding areas. Recoat full sections for a uniform look when needed.
5) How should I maintain a coated deck?
Use mild cleaners, avoid harsh solvents/pressure, and rinse debris regularly.
6) Will coatings peel or flake?
Peeling typically indicates poor prep or moisture. Follow prep steps and ensure the surface is dry before coating.
7) How often should I recoat?
Inspect annually; recoat as needed depending on exposure and foot traffic.
8) Are these surfaces safe for kids and pets?
Non-skid finishes are designed for wet areas. Allow full cure before use.
9) Can I customize texture?
Yes—application method and roller/aggregate choices can increase traction where desired.
10) Will the color fade over time?
All exterior coatings weather; UV-resistant, lighter shades retain appearance longer with proper care.
E-Z Pooldeck® Acrylic Coating FAQs
1) What is E-Z Pooldeck® Acrylic Coating?
A professional-grade, water-based, epoxy-fortified, non-skid, low-sheen acrylic coating for pool decks, patios, and coping stones.
2) Do I need a primer?
It’s designed for excellent adhesion on properly prepped surfaces without a separate primer. Confirm surface prep on the label.
3) What is the coverage per gallon?
Approximately 250–350 sq. ft. per gallon depending on texture and porosity.
4) How many colors are available?
Six popular colors are offered to refresh and protect deck and patio areas.
5) What is the cure time?
Allow initial dry per label; light foot traffic typically after ~24 hours. Full cure may take longer based on weather.
6) Is it non-skid?
Yes—the formula is non-skid and suited for wet, high-traffic pool areas.
7) Should I roll or spray apply?
Roller application is common; spray equipment and tip sizes vary. Follow label guidance for your method.
8) Will it resist staining?
Yes—the coating helps resist stains and renews older surfaces with a clean, even finish.
9) Can I use it on coping stones?
Yes—suitable for many cement-based coping stones when properly prepped.
10) How do I keep it looking new?
Clean routinely with mild detergents, avoid harsh chemicals or high-pressure washing, and recoat when wear is evident.