The diamond brite pool finish has gained popularity in the last few years. A majority of pool professionals now recommend this finish due to its inability to resist most pool chemicals. Better yet, a it’s finish makes pool maintenance incredibly easy. In addition, algae and other water microorganisms find it difficult to stick on this finish and even when it happens, scraping them off is hassle free.
Despite its benefits, it still has its downsides, just like many other plaster materials. In this article, we will look at the problems of of this finish so that you can better understand what to expect from it. You should note, however, that most of these problems typically originate from the plaster which develops problems with time.
Scale
Scale is one problem you expect to experience with a this coating. This problem arises because of the hard water that is treated with many chemicals to make it soft. The slightest chemical reaction between the water and minerals bonds the particles, often calcium and magnesium, to the plaster.
This results in the appearance of scale patches on the finish. Although scale isn’t quite easy to get rid of, you could use soft water in the pool or perform some replastering.
Etching
Although this is quite similar to scale, it often occurs as a result of the pool water’s condition. Acidic water, for instance, could easily result in rough surfaces or pockmarks in the plater or on the finish itself. In addition, a discoloration could occur and the plaster could turn beige.
Many people associate etching with algae but it is often because of low pH levels. The acidic environment corrodes the plaster. In addition, the components in the plaster could bring about the acidic environment.
Cracking
The finish is also susceptible to cracks, which are known as crazing or checking. These cracks, however, are small, difficult to see and are not so common. They are often as a result of instances where the finish is fast curing, like in extreme weather conditions. These cracks could grow with time but won’t endanger the structure and finish of your pool. And since most of these cracks are surface-based, you could easily hire a professional to patch or acid wash them.
Bond Failure
Bond failure is another problem with a it finish and often occurs when the plaster does not hold onto the finish which it should be attached to. Despite being a rare occurrence, the plaster could fail to bond with its finish. Bond failure is quite common during replastering, especially in instances where he plaster doesn’t attach to the previous plaster or when the finish doesn’t offer sufficient grasp. You could easily solve this issue by removing all plaster and proceed to patch the spot. You should, however, exercise caution since some structural issues could crop up.
These are the most common finish problems you will encounter. Most of these are easy to solve and you are sure of a finish that will live for decades.