Pebble Tec is smooth when you first get in. But with regular high exposure to pool water, it becomes harsh, and you or your kids experience foot/elbow/knee rash. Of course, any other finish will feel abrasive to feet after those long hours of kids’ swimming. So How to Make Pebble Tec Smooth?
You can use diamond polishing, Triton pressure washing, and towel rubbing to make pebble tec smooth. Some people even use acid wash for smoothening the surface. Each method requires proper equipment, skills, and time, and it is recommended to seek the help of professionals.
Don’t worry, we will discuss it in detail. We will even mention do it yourself pebble tec method so that you can smoothen it without taking help from professionals or investing tons of money.
3 Ways – How to Make Pebble Tec Smooth
Here are some methods to make the pebble tec smoother. These pebble tec curing processes involve professional help.
Diamond Disk Polishing Method to smoothen Pebble tec
The diamond disk polishing method can effectively smooth out a pebble tec pool finish. By following these steps and taking appropriate safety precautions, you can achieve a beautiful and durable surface for swimming.
Materials Needed:
- Diamond disks mounted on weed eaters
- Pressure washer
- Cleaning solution
- Safety glasses and gloves
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Start by thoroughly cleaning the pebble tec surface with a pressure washer to remove any debris or dirt. Use a cleaning solution to help remove any stubborn stains or dirt. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Diamond Disk Polishing
Attach the diamond disks to weed eaters and begin the polishing process. The diamond disks are made to polish concrete, but they can also smooth out pebble tec surfaces.
When using diamond disks, it’s important to work in small areas at a time to ensure that the entire surface is polished evenly. Apply light pressure and work in circular motions until the surface is smooth. Repeat this process until the entire surface is polished.
Step 3: Clean the Surface
After the polishing, use the pressure washer to clean the pebble tec surface again, removing any remaining debris or dust. It’s important to use a high-powered pressure washer for this step to ensure that all the dirt is removed from the surface.
Step 4: Safety Precautions
When working with diamond disks, it’s important to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris. Additionally, it’s important to follow the instructions with the diamond disks to ensure they are being used safely and effectively.
Time and Cost:
The time and cost required to complete this method will depend on the size of the pool and the amount of pebble tec that needs to be polished. However, on average, this method can take around 8-10 hours and cost around $5,000.
The cost can vary depending on whether you rent or purchase the diamond disks and pressure washer, as well as any cleaning solutions or safety equipment needed.
Acid Wash Method is effective
But wait, can you acid wash pebble tec?
Well, you can use the acid wash to smooth out a pebble tec pool finish. However, it is important to note that acid washing can be harsh on the finish and can cause damage if not done correctly. It is recommended to seek the help of professionals for acid washing and to avoid using it as a method for smoothing the surface.
By following these steps and taking appropriate safety precautions, you can achieve a smooth and durable surface for swimming.
Materials Needed:
- Acid wash solution
- Water
- Rubber gloves
- Safety glasses
- Pressure washer
- Cleaning solution
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Before starting the acid wash, you will need to prepare the area. Begin by draining the pool and removing any debris from the surface. Then, use a pressure washer and cleaning solution to clean the pebble tec surface thoroughly. Once the surface is clean, rinse it with water and allow it to dry completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Acid Wash Solution
Prepare the acid wash solution by mixing the acid wash with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Wear rubber gloves and safety glasses when handling the acid wash solution, as it can be dangerous if it comes in contact with your skin or eyes.
Step 3: Apply the Acid Wash Solution
Apply the acid wash solution to the pebble tec surface using a watering can or sprayer. Work in small sections at a time and apply the acid wash solution evenly. Allow the acid wash solution to sit on the surface for around 30 seconds to 1 minute, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Step 4: Rinse the Surface
After applying the acid wash, use a pressure washer to rinse the surface thoroughly with water. Rinse the surface multiple times to ensure that all of the acid wash solution has been removed from the surface.
Step 5: Clean the Surface
After rinsing the surface, use a pressure washer and cleaning solution to clean the surface again. This will help remove any remaining debris or dirt from the surface.
Step 6: Neutralize the Acid
Neutralize the acid by applying a baking soda solution to the pebble tec surface. This will help to prevent any further etching or damage to the surface.
Step 7: Rinse Again and Fill the Pool
After neutralizing the acid, rinse the surface with a pressure washer and then fill the pool with water.
Time and Cost:
The time and cost required to complete the acid wash method will depend on the size of the pool and the amount of pebble tec that needs to be smoothed out. On average, this method can take around 4-6 hours and cost around $1,000-$2,000. The cost can vary depending on the brand and quantity of acid wash solution and the cost of any safety equipment or cleaning solutions needed.
Triton Pressure Washer Method:
Materials Needed:
- Triton pressure washer
- Diamond polishing pad
- Water
- Cleaning solution
- Safety glasses
- Rubber gloves
Step 1: Clean the Surface
Start by cleaning the pebble tec surface with a pressure washer and cleaning solution to remove any debris or dirt. Rinse the surface with water and allow it to dry completely.
Step 2: Attach the Diamond Polishing Pad
Attach the diamond polishing pad to the Triton pressure washer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Wear safety glasses and rubber gloves when handling the diamond polishing pad.
Step 3: Polish the Surface
Use the Triton pressure washer with the diamond polishing pad to polish the pebble tec surface. Work in small sections at a time, and use a circular motion to polish the surface. Repeat this process until the entire surface has been polished.
Step 4: Rinse the Surface
Once the surface has been polished, rinse it with water to remove any remaining debris or polishing compound.
Step 5: Clean the Surface Again
After rinsing, clean the surface again with a pressure washer and cleaning solution. This will help remove any remaining debris or dirt from the surface.
Time and Cost:
The time and cost required to complete the Triton pressure washer method will depend on the size of the pool and the amount of pebble tec that needs to be smoothed out. On average, this method can take around 4-6 hours and cost around $2,000-$3,000. The cost can vary depending on the brand and quantity of the diamond polishing pad and the cost of any safety equipment or cleaning solutions needed.
Do It Yourself Pebble Tec methods For smoothing Pebble tec – Towel method
You can use a towel to simply remove the harshness or pebble tec. But this is a temporary and time-consuming solution.
Materials Needed
- Soft towels
- Water
- Cleaning solution
Step 1: Clean the Surface
Clean the pebble tec surface with a pressure washer and cleaning solution to remove any debris or dirt. Rinse the surface with water and allow it to dry completely.
Step 2: Wet the Towel
Wet a soft towel with water and wring out any excess water. The towel should be damp, but not soaking wet.
Step 3: Rub the Surface with the Towel
Rub the damp towel over the pebble tec surface, using a circular motion. Apply gentle pressure to smooth out any rough spots or edges.
Step 4: Repeat as Needed
Repeat the process of wetting the towel, rubbing it over the surface, and smoothing out any rough spots or edges. Continue until the entire surface has been smoothed out.
Step 5: Clean the Surface Again
After smoothing out the surface with the towels, clean the surface again with a pressure washer and cleaning solution. This will help remove any remaining debris or dirt from the surface.
Why is Pebble Tec So Rough?
Pebble Tec is a pool surface finishing material made up of small, smooth pebbles. It is popular for swimming pools because it is slip-resistant and provides a natural look. Pebble Tec is also known for being durable and easy to maintain.
However, some people find that Pebble Tec can be too rough on the skin. This is because the pebbles are not as smooth as they appear. They have tiny sharp edges that can irritate the skin.
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to consider another type of pool surface material.
Can You Resurface Pebble Tec?
If your Pebble Tec pool has lost its luster, you may wonder if it can resurface. The good news is that Pebble Tec can indeed be resurfaced, and the process is not overly complicated or expensive. Pebble Tec is a type of pool finish consisting of small pebbles embedded in a clear or colored plaster matrix.
Over time, the plaster matrix can degrade, causing the pebbles to become loose and fall out. This not only diminishes the aesthetic appeal of the pool, but can also create a slip hazard. Resurfacing a Pebble Tec pool involves removing and replacing the old plaster matrix with a new one.
The pebbles will then need to be re-embedded into the new plaster. This can be done by hand, or with a machine called a shot blaster. A shot blaster essentially sandblasts the pebbles into the new plaster, providing for a very strong bond.
The entire process of removing old plaster and installing new usually takes about 3-5 days. The cost will vary depending on factors such as the size and depth of your pool, but generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,000 to resurface your Pebble Tec pool.
How Many Times Can You Acid Wash Pebble Tec?
If you have a Pebble Tec pool, you may be wondering how often you need to acid wash it. The frequency of acid washes will depend on a number of factors, including the type of pool, the climate, and how well the pool is maintained. pools in arid climates will generally require more frequent acid washes than those in humid climates.
This is because the evaporation rate is higher in arid climates, which can lead to mineral build-up on the surface of the pebbles. In addition, if your pool is not properly maintained (e.g., if leaves and debris are allowed to accumulate), this can also contribute to mineral build-up and the need for more frequent acid washes. As a general rule of thumb, most Pebble Tec pools will need to be acid washed every two to three years.
However, if you live in an arid climate or don’t maintain your pool properly, you may need to do it more frequently. If you’re unsure how often you should acid-wash your Pebble Tec pool, consult a professional pool service company.
How Thick is Pebble Tec Applied
If you’re considering adding a Pebble Tec pool finish to your pool, you may be wondering how thick the finish will be. The answer depends on the type of Pebble Tec finish you choose.
The Original Pebble Tec is applied at a thickness of 3/8″.
This is the standard thickness for most pebble pool finishes.
Pebble Fina, on the other hand, is applied much thinner – only 1/16″. This makes it ideal for pools with shallow depths or those that don’t require as much durability.
Pebble Tec Vs Pebble Sheen
If you are planning to install a new pool or renovate your old one, you may be wondering about the different types of finishes available. Two popular choices are Pebble Tec and Pebble Sheen. Both of these options provide a beautiful natural look for your pool, but there are some key differences between them.
Pebble Tec is a thicker finish made up of tiny pebbles that are cemented together with a polymer resin. This results in a durable surface less likely to chip or crack than thinner finishes like plaster. Pebble Tec can also be customized with different colors and patterns to create a unique look for your pool.
Pebble Sheen is a thinner finish made up of smaller pebbles than Pebble Tec. It is still quite durable, but not as thick or strong as the thicker option. Pebble Sheen is available in fewer color and pattern options than Pebble Tec, but it can still provide a beautiful natural look for your pool.
Credit: gardnerremodel.com
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pebble Tec is a popular pool finish that provides a natural and durable look to swimming pools. However, over time, the finish can become rough and lose its smoothness due to various factors such as weather, usage, and age.
To smoothen Pebble Tec, there are several methods available, such as diamond polishing, Triton pressure washing, and towel rubbing. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on the level of roughness and the budget.
It is essential to keep in mind that these methods require proper equipment, skills, and time, and it is recommended to seek the help of professionals to avoid any damage to the pool finish. With proper maintenance and care, Pebble Tec can provide a beautiful and smooth finish to the swimming pool for many years to come.