Regular maintenance for a pool is a must if you own one and want to ensure it is in its best condition. One of the most crucial maintenance parts is pool resurfacing, which helps improve a pool’s lifetime and overall beauty. But what is the timeframe for pool resurfacing? The answer is complex, ranging from the resurfacing material type to the pool’s volume and weather. This article will outline details of the resurfacing process, timelines you should expect, and factors that can impact the duration of the process.
Explaining What Pool Resurfacing Is
A pool is subject to several elements, including chemicals, water, and external weather conditions. With time, this will lead to the pool’s appearance marred with rough surfaces, cracks, and stains. Pool resurfacing refers to the process of removing the existing surface and replacing it with a new one, restoring the pool’s aesthetics while giving back its integrity. This process enhances the seal’s life, increases the surface’s smoothness so swimmers can glide without any barriers, and prevents surface leaks.
What is the Time Needed for Pool Resurfacing:Step By Step Breakdown
- Draining the Pool (1 Day)
The first step in pool resurfacing is draining the water. Depending on the pool’s size and method (pump vs. gravity drain), this process can take 6 to 12 hours. Even so, some deep pools may take up to twenty-four hours to completely drain.
- Preparing and Repairing the Surface (1-2 Days)
As soon as the pool is vacated, the surface must be triturated. The following are the procedures:
- The surface will be sandblasted or chipped off
- Repairs will address cracks and cavities
- The pool shell will be cleaned of all debris
- A properly prepared surface will guarantee secure adhesion of the new material. This step is crucial. Depending on how well the pool has been maintained, this stage can last anywhere from one to two days.
- Installing a New Surface (1-3 Days)
The materials chosen to resurface the pool will determine the project’s timeline. Some resurfacing options include:
- Plaster: 1-2 days (Traditional White or Quartz)
- Pebble Finish: 2-3 days
- Fiberglass: 1-2 days
- Title: 5-7 days (manual installation of individual tiles)
Due to cost-efficiency and durability, plaster and pebble finishes are the most commonly used materials.
- Drying and Curing Time (1-3 Days)
Different materials require different curing times before the surface of the pool can be filled with water.
- Plaster: 24-48 hours
- Pebble and Tile: 48-72 hours
- Fiberglass: 24 hours
By passing this step, they are most certainly guaranteed damage to the surface. Thus, the material must be given enough time to set.
- Pool Refill (1-2 Days)
After curing, the pool is filled with water again. Depending on the pool size and water pressure, this process usually takes 12 to 48 hours.
- Water Chemistry Balance (2-3 Days)
The last step is to modify the water chemistry so it does not stain and is safe for swimmers. This consists of:
- Measuring the pH, alkalinity, and calcium levels
- Adding stabilizer chemicals
- Filtrating the water constantly for 48-72 hours
- Swimming is not recommended during this time in order to give sufficient time for the chemicals to mix and stabilize.
Considerations That Can Affect the Pool Resurfacing Time
- Climate
Curing rain and curative high and very low temperatures can slow resurfacing. For example, high humidity can dampen curing times, while the rain would cleanse the new correlations.
- The Size of The Pool AndThe Complication
Pools that are larger with more intricate designs, such as levels, waterfalls, or custom shapes, will take longer to resurface.
- Unplanned Repairs
When resurfacing, if structural issues are found, such as cracks, leaks, or some plumbing issues, these repairs would extend the time for the project.
- Access To Crew And Equipment
A surge in demand can be observed in the spring and summer when pools are most popular. Consequently, contractors may have longer than average wait times during this period. Reserving a spot in advance can help mitigate postponements.
How Long Is The Wait Time To Get Back IntoThe Water?
Generally speaking, resurfacing a pool takes 5 to 10 days. Most people should expect to wait at least 7 to 14 days after resurfacing to swim in the pool again, as this largely depends on the curing period and water balance.
