By Pools Reno – Your Pool Resurfacing & Repair Experts in the Western Cape
What Is Pool Plaster Delamination?
Pool plaster delamination is a common but serious issue affecting many concrete or gunite pools across Cape Town and surrounding areas. It occurs when the plaster layer separates from the underlying concrete, forming air or calcium-filled voids—also known as calcium nodules. These appear as raised blisters or bubbles, and if not fixed, they can weaken your pool structure, encourage algae growth, and ruin your pool’s finish.
Why Does Pool Plaster Delaminate?
- Improper bond coat application or surface prep.
- Old plaster layers not removed before resurfacing.
- High heat or humidity, especially common in Western Cape summers.
- Delayed refilling after plastering, leading to cracking.
- Hairline structural movement, allowing water to seep between layers.
How to Repair Pool Plaster Delamination
Small Area? Try Local Repairs
If the delamination affects only a small area:
- Chip out the damaged plaster.
- Clean thoroughly.
- Apply underwater epoxy putty or repair plaster.
- Smooth the surface and let it cure fully.
This method avoids draining your pool and costs as little as R200–R2,000.
Major Damage? Go for Full Re-plastering
If the issue is widespread, a full pool replastering is the only long-term fix:
- Drain the pool.
- Remove all existing plaster.
- Prep and acid wash the surface.
- Apply a new plaster layer (white cement, marbelite, or quartz).
- Cure properly and refill.
Average cost: R60,000+, depending on pool size and finish.
How to Prevent Pool Plaster Delamination
- Always hire qualified pool contractors for plastering.
- Brush and maintain proper chemistry in the first 2 weeks after plastering.
- Monitor your pool for surface bumps or hairline cracks.
- Avoid resurfacing over old plaster without chipping it off.
Other Pool Plaster Issues to Watch
| Issue | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Mottling | Heat, humidity, or wind during plastering | Acid wash or aesthetic only |
| Etching | Low pH or calcium imbalance | Water balancing, sanding, or resurfacing |
| Plaster Dust | Dissolving calcium or aggressive water | Adjust pH and alkalinity immediately |
Swimming Pool Services We Offer Across the Western Cape
At Pools Reno, we are more than just plaster experts. We provide a full range of residential and commercial pool services across Cape Town, Bellville, Durbanville, Somerset West, Paarl, Stellenbosch, and the entire Western Cape region.
Our Services Include:
. Pool Plaster Repair & Full Replastering
. Fibreglass Pool Resurfacing & Reline Services
. Marbelite Pool Finishes
. Leak Detection & Crack Repairs
. Pool Renovations & Modernisations
. Tile Replacement & Coping Repairs
. Pump, Filter & Chlorinator Installations
. Sand Filter & Cartridge Filter Cleaning
. Swimming Poo Acid Washing & Deep Chemical Cleaning
. Pool Putty Repairs for Cracks & Underwater Leaks
. Pool Volume & Chemical Balance Calculations
. Routine Pool Maintenance & Servicing Plans
. Plunge Pool Installations & Upgrades
. Equipment Repair & Replacement
. Weekly and Monthly Cleaning Packages
Whether you’re looking to revive an old pool or maintain a new one, we’ve got the tools, team, and experience to help.
Final Thoughts
If your pool surface is showing signs of delamination, don’t delay. What begins as a small blister or bubble can escalate into extensive cracking, algae infestations, and even tile detachment. We recommend calling Pools Reno for an inspection if you see:
- Bubbling or bumpy patches on plaster
- Flaky or cracking plaster edges
- Algae growing on seemingly clean surfaces
- White nodules or calcium bumps
📍 Serving All Areas Across Cape Town & Western Cape
From Atlantis to Strand, Paarl to Durbanville, our expert teams are available for quick on-site inspections, emergency repairs, or full pool makeovers.
📞 Call Pools Reno Today or request a quote online. Your pool deserves the best care – and so do you.
