Stage one of the Allnex AQUAGUARD™ System involves strategically positioning steel Acrow Props within the pool to brace and allow for draining. These props support the structural integrity of the pool’s fibreglass walls once the water has been removed.
If we anticipate any significant movements throughout the resurfacing process or once left to cure, these props will remain within the pool until it has been refilled. We use high out-put pumps to drain the water and dependant on the size of the pool, the draining process is usually complete within one hour.
A large industrial tarp tent is then erected over the swimming pool site to assist with protecting the AQUAGUARD™ products and our Technicians from UV rays and weather elements. This tent also assists with containing dust and fibres, ensuring a clean and safe work site.
Our team ensures safety is paramount throughout the entire renovation process, with the use of full Personal Protective Equipment and the latest in specialised trade tools.
Once the pool has been braced and thoroughly emptied the old and defective gelcoat is removed by our technicians using specialised grinders. The grinding process is a methodical and extensive operation which allows our technicians to diagnose any underlying issues, all while removing the gelcoat to expose the raw fibreglass shell. This process can take between 2-6 hours to complete.
Special attention is paid to swimming pools affected by Osmosis and Black Spot Algae. Treatment for these issues is meticulous and labour intensive, ensuring complete removal and repair.
Osmosis bubbles can range in size and severity, from the size of a match head, to the size of a dinner plate and typically range in numbers from a small few to hundreds, even thousands.
Blackspot Algae is a very unique and robust algae with roots and has many protective layers enabling it to live in a pool environment and penetrate a pool shell. This typically happens when a gelcoat is breaking down and becomes porous, or once an Osmosis bubble has ruptured. Treatment for both these issues are carried out by our Senior Technicians as part of the resurfacing process.
The second stage of the resurfacing process is the application of a Vinyl Ester Resin Primer. This primer adheres to the freshly ground shell preparing the surface for the new fibreglass laminate.
A 300gsm Chopped Strand Fibreglass Matting is applied in conjunction with a secondary layer of Vinyl Ester Resin. These layers consolidate or fuse, which removes any hidden air pockets within the new fibreglass laminate, resulting in a secure bond and minimising future water migration causing Osmosis. High traffic areas, such as steps and entry points, will be examined and weak spots will have this process repeated to ensure strength is rebuilt into these areas. This laminate and primer combination produces superior chemical and water resistance along with the highest levels of strength and durability.
All products are strictly created and distributed by Allnex Composites.
The third stage of the resurfacing process consists of ensuring the fibreglass matting layer has fully cured in preparation for the Vinyl Ester Fillcoat.
This Fillcoat is applied to the entire pool interior and ensures any small holes or imperfections possibly left after the fibreglass layer are removed.
This layer also consists of the first stage of pigment or colour, which enhances the final cosmetic finish. It is imperative the Fillcoat layer is applied correctly, as not only will this create a smooth surface for the final Top Coat but also a secondary chemical barrier. This process is then left to fully cure overnight.
The finishing stage of the AQUAGUARD™ system involves a light grind, ensuring the removal of any final imperfections. At this stage we install a customised Non- Slip Surface to high traffic areas and to swimming pools with a visible edge beam. Our Senior Technicians will then conduct a final inspection of the pool interior to ensure the pool is ready for the final Top Coat.
The Top Coat layer is not only vibrant and decorative but also contains built in protectants in the way of Styrene Wax, which prevents colour fading and provides exceptional durability. This coat needs to be applied carefully and according to manufacturer specification.
We undertake stringent quality control procedures and testing throughout the renovation, ensuring the highest level of product performance.
A final and comprehensive inspection of the resurfaced pool will be carried out by a Senior Technician, once the Top Coat process is complete. Once approved, the area will be fully cleaned and all equipment and the tarp tent removed.
The Senior Technician will then provide information on the completed resurface and run through any questions you may have.
Detailed swimming pool pre start instructions are provided to each client to assist with refilling the pool once fully cured.
The result… A spectacular looking pool with superior quality!
