How to Trowel a Pool: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on troweling a pool! Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, the process of troweling a pool can seem daunting at first. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a beautiful and long-lasting finish for your pool.

In this step-by-step guide, we will cover everything you need to know to successfully trowel a pool. From preparing the surface to mixing and applying the pool trowel, to troweling techniques and tips, and finishing the pool surface with curing and sealing.

With our easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to achieve a smooth and even pool surface that’s both aesthetically pleasing and functional. So, let’s dive in and get started!

Ready to learn how to trowel a pool like a pro? Keep reading for a detailed, step-by-step guide that will help you achieve excellent results!

Understanding the Basics of Troweling a Pool

If you are looking for a way to make your pool look brand new, troweling the surface may be the perfect solution. Troweling is a process that involves applying a thin layer of material, such as plaster or stucco, over the surface of the pool. This layer is then smoothed out and leveled with a trowel, resulting in a smooth and attractive finish. Pool troweling is a great way to revitalize your pool and give it a fresh new look.

Before starting the process, it’s important to understand the basics of pool troweling. First, it’s essential to prepare the surface by thoroughly cleaning it and ensuring that it’s smooth and level. Then, you’ll need to mix the trowel material, apply it to the surface, and begin troweling it with a pool trowel. This process can take several hours or even days, depending on the size of the pool and the type of material being used.

Pool troweling requires skill and patience, and it’s essential to follow the proper techniques and safety guidelines to ensure a successful outcome. By understanding the basics of troweling a pool, you can achieve a beautiful and long-lasting finish that will enhance the beauty and value of your property.

The Importance of Troweling in Pool Construction

Troweling is a critical step in the construction of any pool, as it helps create a smooth, level surface that enhances the overall appearance and functionality of the pool. Improper troweling can lead to problems like uneven surfaces, rough textures, and weakened structural integrity, which can be costly and time-consuming to fix.

1. Enhanced Appearance: Troweling helps create a smooth surface that reflects light and enhances the visual appeal of the pool.
2. Better Functionality: A properly troweled pool surface is easier to clean and maintain, ensuring optimal water circulation and chemical balance.
3. Increased Durability: Proper troweling helps strengthen the pool’s structural integrity, preventing cracks, leaks, and other forms of damage.
4. Critical for Safety: A smooth, level surface is essential for preventing slips, falls, and other pool-related accidents.

Overall, troweling is a crucial step in pool construction that should not be overlooked or rushed. With proper troweling techniques and attention to detail, you can ensure that your pool is not only beautiful but also safe, functional, and durable for years to come.

The Different Types of Pool Trowels and their Uses

There are several types of pool trowels available in the market, each designed for specific purposes. The different types of trowels have variations in shape, size, and flexibility. Knowing which type of trowel to use for a particular job is essential to achieve the desired finish on the pool surface.

The finishing trowel is the most commonly used pool trowel. Its rectangular shape with slightly rounded corners allows for a smooth finish. The corner trowel has a pointed edge to reach tight corners, while the notched trowel has teeth on its edge to create a rough surface for better adhesion of tiles or other materials. The margin trowel is smaller and ideal for working in tight spaces or small repairs.

Choosing the right type of pool trowel is essential for the quality of the finished pool surface. Using the wrong type of trowel can result in a poor finish or even damage to the surface, leading to costly repairs.

The Ideal Time to Start Troweling a Pool

Timing is crucial when it comes to troweling a pool. You don’t want to start too early, or the concrete might be too wet and soft. On the other hand, starting too late can cause the surface to become too hard and difficult to trowel. Here are some tips for finding the ideal time to start troweling:

• Check the weather: The temperature and humidity can affect the drying time of the concrete. Make sure to trowel on a dry, mild day with temperatures between 70-80°F.
• Test the concrete: Before troweling, test the concrete’s firmness by pressing your thumb into the surface. If it leaves an indentation about 1/4 inch deep, it’s time to start troweling.
• Consider the size of the pool: The larger the pool, the more time it will take to trowel. Start troweling as soon as the concrete is ready to avoid having to rush to finish before it hardens too much.
• Have a plan: Make sure you have all the tools and supplies you need before starting to trowel. You don’t want to be running around looking for a tool while the concrete is drying.

By taking these factors into account, you can find the ideal time to start troweling your pool, ensuring a smooth and even surface.

Preparing the Surface Before Troweling

Ensuring a Clean and Level Surface: Before starting to trowel the pool, the surface must be clean and level. Use a power washer or a stiff brush to remove dirt and debris from the pool surface. The surface should be completely level to avoid any bumps or high spots that could affect the final finish.

Repairing Surface Cracks and Imperfections: Surface cracks and imperfections can affect the final finish of the pool, so it is essential to repair them before troweling. Use a surface repair compound to patch any holes, cracks or gaps in the surface. Once the compound is dry, use a fine grit sandpaper to smooth it out.

Applying a Bonding Agent: Applying a bonding agent to the pool surface is important to ensure a strong bond between the pool surface and the trowel. The bonding agent should be applied in a thin, even layer with a paintbrush or roller. It is essential to wait until the bonding agent is completely dry before proceeding with troweling.

Cleaning and Leveling the Pool Surface

Before troweling your pool, the surface must be cleaned and leveled. The first step is to remove any debris, such as rocks or twigs, from the surface. Next, level the pool surface by removing any bumps or high spots using a grinder or a chisel. If there are any low spots, fill them with a patching compound and let it dry for at least 24 hours.

Once the surface is level, use a power washer to remove any remaining dirt or debris. If there are any stains or discoloration, use a pool acid wash to remove them. Be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles when using acid. Rinse the surface thoroughly with water after using the acid wash.

After cleaning and leveling the pool surface, it’s important to let it dry completely before troweling. This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, depending on the weather conditions.

Mixing and Applying the Pool Trowel

Gather Your Tools: Before mixing the pool trowel, gather all the necessary tools such as a mixing drill, pool trowel, and a bucket to mix the trowel in.

Mix the Pool Trowel: Follow the instructions on the package of your pool trowel mix. Make sure to mix the trowel properly to achieve a smooth and consistent mix.

Apply the Trowel: Start applying the trowel at one end of the pool and work your way towards the other end. Use a sweeping motion to apply the trowel evenly over the surface of the pool.

Smooth the Surface: After applying the trowel, use a pool float to smooth out the surface of the pool. This will help to create a uniform and consistent finish.

Cure the Pool: Allow the pool to cure for the recommended time before filling it with water. This will ensure that the trowel has properly adhered to the surface of the pool and will result in a durable and long-lasting finish.

Preparing the Pool Trowel Mix

Choose the right materials: The materials used in creating the pool trowel mix are important. Use high-quality plaster and cement, and make sure they are mixed well.

Mixing the materials: Mix the materials thoroughly in a large container using a drill with a paddle mixer attachment. Gradually add water until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.

Consistency: The consistency of the pool trowel mix should be similar to peanut butter. If it is too dry, it will not spread easily, and if it is too wet, it will slide off the trowel.

Batch size: Only mix a small batch of pool trowel mix at a time, as it dries quickly.

Using additives: Additives like liquid latex or acrylic can be added to the pool trowel mix to increase its strength and bonding properties.

Applying the Pool Trowel Mix on the Surface

Once the pool surface is properly cleaned and leveled, the trowel mix can be applied. It’s important to start at one end of the pool and work towards the other to ensure a consistent finish.

When applying the mix, use a steel trowel to spread the mix evenly across the surface. Make sure to apply enough pressure to fill any voids or low spots in the surface.

After the first application, use a plastic trowel to smooth out the surface and remove any excess mix. Repeat the process until the entire surface has been covered and smoothed out.

It’s important to work quickly when applying the trowel mix to ensure a consistent finish. Keep in mind that the mix will start to dry within 30 minutes of application, so it’s important to work efficiently.

Once the troweling is complete, allow the surface to dry completely before applying any further coatings or finishes.

Troweling the Pool: Techniques and Tips

Use the right trowel: Different trowels have different uses, so make sure you choose the right one for the job. A finishing trowel is great for smoothing out the surface, while a margin trowel is ideal for tight spaces.

Keep it wet: To achieve a smooth and even finish, make sure you keep the surface wet. Spray a mist of water on the surface periodically while troweling.

Use the right pressure: Use light pressure when troweling the surface to avoid creating ridges or marks. Apply more pressure when smoothing out areas with blemishes or imperfections.

Trowel in different directions: Troweling in different directions can help achieve an even and uniform finish. Start troweling in one direction, then switch to a perpendicular direction on the next pass.

Proper Troweling Techniques for a Smooth Surface

When troweling a pool, there are several techniques you can use to ensure a smooth surface. The following are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

1. Start with the right trowel: The type of trowel you use will depend on the type of pool finish you are using. Make sure you have the right trowel for the job.
2. Use a circular motion: When troweling, use a circular motion to distribute the pool finish evenly. This will help create a smooth surface without any lumps or bumps.
3. Work in small sections: It’s best to work in small sections when troweling a pool. This will help you maintain control over the pool finish and ensure an even surface.
4. Keep the trowel flat: To achieve a smooth surface, keep the trowel as flat as possible. This will help prevent any unwanted lines or ridges from forming on the surface of the pool.

By following these techniques, you can achieve a smooth and professional-looking pool finish. Remember to take your time and work carefully to achieve the best results.

Finishing the Pool Surface: Curing and Sealing

Curing the Pool Surface

After troweling the pool surface, it is important to allow it to cure properly. Curing is the process of allowing the surface to dry and harden. This usually takes about two weeks. During this time, it is important to keep the surface moist by spraying it with water regularly. This will prevent the surface from cracking and ensure that it dries evenly.

Sealing the Pool Surface

Once the surface has cured, it is time to apply a sealer. A sealer is a protective coating that helps to prevent stains and damage to the surface. There are many types of sealers available, including acrylic, epoxy, and urethane. It is important to choose a sealer that is compatible with the surface material and that will provide the desired level of protection.

Maintaining the Pool Surface

To ensure that the pool surface remains in good condition, it is important to maintain it regularly. This includes keeping the surface clean by brushing it regularly and removing any debris. It is also important to test the water regularly to ensure that the chemical levels are balanced. Chemical imbalances can cause damage to the surface and affect the water quality. Finally, it is important to address any issues with the surface promptly to prevent further damage.

Allowing the Pool Surface to Cure

After the pool surface has been troweled and smoothed, it is important to allow it to cure properly. Curing is the process by which the pool trowel mix dries and hardens, ensuring that the surface is durable and long-lasting.

Most pool trowel mixes require a curing time of at least 24 hours. During this time, it is important to keep the surface moist by spraying it with water regularly. This helps to prevent cracking and ensure an even cure.

It is also important to avoid walking on or using the pool during the curing process, as this can cause damage to the surface and compromise the curing process. Patience is key during this stage, as rushing the process can lead to subpar results.

Applying a Sealer for Long-Lasting Protection

Step 1: Choose the right type of sealer based on the type of pool surface and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Sealers can be solvent-based or water-based.

Step 2: Clean the pool surface thoroughly, removing any debris or dirt that may interfere with the sealer’s adherence.

Step 3: Apply the sealer to the pool surface using a paint roller, sprayer, or brush, following the manufacturer’s instructions. It is important to apply the sealer evenly to ensure complete coverage.

Step 4: Allow the sealer to dry completely before using the pool. The drying time will vary depending on the type of sealer and the weather conditions.

By applying a sealer, you can protect the pool surface from damage caused by UV rays, chemicals, and regular wear and tear. This will extend the life of the pool surface and save you money on repairs in the long run.

Maintaining the Pool Surface After Troweling

After troweling and curing, it’s important to maintain the pool surface to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips:

• Clean regularly: Dirt, debris, and algae can build up on the surface over time, so it’s important to regularly clean the pool with a pool brush or net.
• Balance the water: Proper water chemistry is important to prevent stains, discoloration, and damage to the surface. Regularly test the water and add chemicals as needed to keep the pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels in check.
• Avoid sharp objects: To prevent scratches or other damage to the surface, avoid using sharp objects or dragging heavy items across the surface.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pool surface stays in great condition for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions