Breathing life back into your aging swimming pool: Signs your pool needs resurfacing.
“Eventually, even the best maintained pools will show signs of wear and tear and you may think it is too far gone. But realistically your pool has an entire life ahead!
Fibreglass resprays are a cost-effective alternative to pool replacement and can be done over any pool surface including concrete, concrete block, gunite, vinyl liner and old fibreglass. But how do you know it’s time to consider a new surface?
There are 4 key signs to look out for that may indicate it’s time to consider a fresh new fibreglass respray.
No pool is too big or too small for resurfacing. This leaking 25m pool was modernised with a fresh new fibreglass colour and stunning waterline tiles. Find out more about this project here >
1. Osmosis
Osmosis presents itself as blisters or bumps on the pool’s surface. These can vary in size and will eventually crack leaving black or brown marks on the pool surface. Algae formation (black algae) will often develop around these cracks leading to less than perfect swimming conditions for you and your family.
2. Cracks
Hairline cracks may appear as a sign of ageing, or as the result of your pool incurring pressure that exceeds its ability to flex with the earth’s surface - especially in concrete pools. Severe cracks may compromise your pool’s structural stability and cause leaks.
3. The water level keeps dropping
Typically, the water level in your pool shouldn’t change much. If you start to notice the level dropping for no obvious reason, this may be a sign of more severe issues. Cracks in the surface can almost always be repaired with resurfacing, however leaks can occur in the plumbing or pool equipment which is worth checking out before committing to a full resurface as replumbing or replacement of pump shed systems may address the issue.
3. Surface colour change
Direct exposure of sun rays and incorrect chemical treatment of water can lead to colour deterioration of your pool surface colour. Colour may start fading, and on fibreglass pools can leave behind a white flaky (sometimes described as ‘chalky’) surface. Regular pool maintenance, water testing and water treatment is the most effective way to ensure you get the most from your pool surface.
If your pool is showing any of these signs, it may be time to consider a refurbishment. Whether it’s minor blemishes, fading or more significant damage, it is worth having it checked to see if resurfacing is right for your pool.
Can I just paint my pool? Repainting vs resurfacing
Both swimming pool renovation methods have their merits, however the best choice by far in terms of adding longevity, durability and value to your pool is fibreglass resurfacing.
Fibreglass resurfacing provides longevity
Pool paint needs to be reapplied every 5 – 7 years, meaning you will need to empty your pool and undergo resurfacing much more frequently. Additionally, there is an inherent risk when emptying all swimming pools because of ground or hydrostatic pressures which can lift the pool out of the ground – not ideal.
Fibreglass resurfacing on the other hand has an extremely long lifespan and you should expect anywhere from 20 – 30 years from your investment.
Design aesthetic
Pool paint will fade much quicker than fibreglass leaving your pool looking dull and lifeless. And if not maintained correctly, pool paint can turn chalky and hazy due to materials breaking down in your pool, leaving a chalky residue in the pool water.
Fibreglass comes in a huge range of colours and with well-maintained water will continue to look as-new for many years after resurfacing.
Durability, insulation and gentle on feet
Fibreglass is extremely strong, hard-wearing, durable and has flexural strength you won’t find in any other pool surface. With superior resistance to water erosion and chemical interaction, fibreglass resurfacing in the Mayfair System is by far the better option if you are looking for long-term results and return on your investment.
Fibreglass is also a natural insulator, resulting in a warmer pool and longer swim season. Add to this a finished surface that is gentle on feet and non-porous and you have the ultimate resurfacing method.
Pool paint is purely aesthetic and will not add any structural integrity or insulation to your pool.
Lifespan from investment
Whilst your up-front investment for fibreglass resurfacing is initially more than repainting, you are assured of less frequent recurring expenses, risk of things going wrong and a far greater lifespan from your investment.
Think your pool may need refurbishing?
We are specialists in fibreglass resurfacing in the Mayfair Fibreglass System, plumbing and pool system upgrades and refurbishment of your pool surrounds. We don’t just resurface your pool, but have the skills to transform your entire outdoor living space, breathing life back into your outdoor lifestyle.
If you suspect your pool surface may be deteriorating and in need of a resurface, get in touch with us first and a member of our team will visit to make an assessment on the issue and provide you with an idea of what is required to bring your pool back to life. Do not empty your pool without first contacting us.
Whether it’s residential, commercial, hotel or a school pool, contact us today for a no-obligation quote.
Still have a burning question? Check out our FAQ’s on pool renovations.