Why is EcoFinish Flaking Off and How Can It Be Fixed?
Addressing the issue of EcoFinish peeling or flaking can seem straightforward at first glance, but the reality involves multiple factors that influence adhesion and durability. Based on recent experiences with pools installed on the same Ohio block, I can shed light on why this occurs and what steps are necessary for effective repairs.
I have installed two Plungie pools over the past two years in Ohio, both on similar substrates. After the first year, both pools exhibited minor cracks and some deterioration of the floor finish. While repairs were made, one of the pools experienced the patch coming loose, resulting in visible flaking, as shown in the accompanying photo.
Why Isn’t EcoFinish Patching Simply Easy?
It may seem like applying a patch of EcoFinish should be a simple process, but in reality, achieving a lasting bond requires more careful preparation. The root cause often lies in the underlying surface—typically a plaster, pebble, or marcite coating—that EcoFinish adheres to. EcoFinish itself is not a waterproof barrier but a cosmetic finish, so its adhesion depends heavily on the condition of the substrate beneath.
Several variables affect this adhesion:
- Variations in the density of the plaster or pebble mix, which can create uneven surfaces.
- Differences in hydration levels during curing, leading to irregularities.
- Presence of dense or less porous spots that hinder proper bonding.
When EcoFinish begins to flake, it indicates that the bond with the underlying surface has weakened. In such cases, simply applying a patch over the affected area is insufficient for a durable repair.
Proper Repair Techniques
To effectively repair flaking EcoFinish, a thorough preparation process is essential:
- Carefully sand down the flaking areas to remove loose material and create a rough surface for better adhesion.
- Perform an acid wash on the exposed substrate to eliminate any residual contaminants that could interfere with bonding.
- Ensure the surface is properly dried and cleaned before proceeding.
- Apply a high-quality epoxy primer, ideally mixed at a 50/50 ratio, to establish a strong chemical bond with the substrate.
- Once the epoxy layer has cured, apply a new coat of EcoFinish, ensuring even coverage and proper adhesion.
This process helps create a reliable bond between the new EcoFinish layer and the existing substrate, addressing issues caused by irregularities or insufficient adhesion initially.
Additional Considerations
If the surface underneath was not porous enough or was inadequately prepared during the initial application, it can contribute to failure. Unfortunately, partial repairs are often not viable because the entire surface may need to be stripped and re-coated to ensure longevity. This often involves removing the existing EcoFinish, re-preparing the substrate thoroughly, and reapplying a fresh coating, including the necessary primer and sealants.
While such repairs can be labor-intensive, it’s important to remember that underwater visibility of these blemishes is limited, making it less disruptive visually. Nonetheless, understanding these underlying causes and applying proper repair techniques can significantly extend the lifespan of your pool’s finish.
Hope this detailed explanation helps clarify why EcoFinish can flake off and how to approach a proper, lasting repair.
Bir yanıt yazın