Relining a Gunite Swimming Pool

Request a refurbishing estimate from a professional pool installation and maintenance company. Minor cosmetic repairs to chips, cracks and "pops" in the surface may be within the maintenance abilities of the experienced do-it-your-self homeowner. Structural repairs from settling or earthquake damage are best left in the hands of seasoned professionals.

Drain the water away from the pool. Dispose of pool water in a service drain if available.

Remove or tape and mask all lighting fixtures, ladders, hardware and pool accessories.

Drag the bottom of the pool with a heavy chain, listening for hollow spots. Chip out hollows or "bubbles." Remove debris.

Clean the surface of the pool with cleaning products recommended by the pool manufacturer. Follow instructions carefully. Always wear eye protection, rubber gloves and a breathing mask when working with cleaning fluids and solvents. Professional pool cleaners may be employed to clean the pool walls and bottom with a pressure washer or acidic chemicals to etch the surface and enhance refinishing product adhesion. Allow the pool surface to dry thoroughly.

Repair chips, holes or popped-out areas with pre-mixed gunite pool spackling material or make your own mixture from gray Portland cement sand and an acrylic cement bonding agent. Wet the surface with a damp sponge or spray mist. Follow the manufacturer's mixing instructions and apply the mixture with a trowel or putty knife to fill the hole or chip. Smooth the surface of the repair. Allow the repair mixture to dry overnight.

Sand all repairs so they will blend into the surface and will not be visible after the refurbishing coating is applied. Use a portable, cordless sander. Clean the pool carefully, removing all dust and debris. All surfaces must be free of oils, grease and other surface soil and contaminants. Careful preparation is the most important step in the process of swimming pool restoration.

Purchase cement re-plaster coating online or from a professional swimming pool installation and repair contractor. The coating may be applied with a roller or spray gun following the manufacturer's package instructions. Allow to coating to dry for 48 to 72 hours before refilling the pool.