How to Repair & Resurface Rough Pool Plaster

Rough pool plaster (often from overexposed aggregate, trowel marks, scale, or etching) can make swimming uncomfortable and damage swimsuits and skin. Instead of costly re-plastering, restore your finish using our non-corrosive diamond Pool Plaster Discs for dry polishing & resurfacing. This two-step method smooths rough areas, removes stains/scale, and leaves a pleasant, swim-ready surface.

Why Our Non-Corrosive Discs Work

  • Non-Corrosive Matrix — won’t rust or introduce metal residuals like traditional electroplated pads.
  • Saltwater Safe — stable performance around salt systems; won’t interfere with salt cell readings.
  • Chemistry Friendly — designed for dry polishing & resurfacing; no acid wash needed.
  • Simple Setup — no water-fed machine required; use a standard 7″ variable-speed polisher with GFCI.

These discs correct roughness caused by chemistry imbalance, repeated acid washing, and long-term salt exposure. They remove calcium scale, waterline scale, calcium nodules, topical stains, and light etching without harming sound plaster beneath.

Common Causes of Rough Pool Plaster

  • Poor Water Chemistry: High pH/CH or neglect quickly shows up as scale and roughness.
  • Acid Washing: Overuse of muriatic acid dissolves cement paste, overexposing aggregate and creating a rough feel.
  • Salt Exposure: Without balanced chemistry, salt systems can accelerate surface roughness over time.

Disc Selection (Grit & Coverage)

Disc Use Case Result
50 Grit (WD7050) Heavy scale, coarse/rough plaster, trowel marks Aggressive cut; leaves slight uniform texture
70 Grit (WD7070) Blend after 50 grit; semi-coarse finishes Refines scratch pattern; prepares for final finish
120 Grit (WD7120) Final pass on all plaster types Smooth, polished, swim-ready surface

Need help choosing? Read the Pool Plaster Disc Grit Guide.

Two-Step Dry Polishing & Resurfacing Process

Step 1 — Flatten & Hone

  • Start with 50 grit for severe roughness or 70 grit for moderate roughness.
  • Work in ~5 ft × 5 ft sections with light, even pressure; keep the pad flat.
  • Vacuum or rinse between passes to control heat and remove residuals.
  • Goal: a uniform, lightly textured surface with defects and scale removed.

Step 2 — Smooth & Polish

  • Finish with 120 grit to remove the light texture from Step 1.
  • Process ~4 sq ft at a time; check progress by touch for a smooth, comfortable finish.
  • Repeat as needed for consistency across the entire surface.
Tool Setup: 7″ hook & loop backer pad (AG7529) on a variable-speed polisher/sander (max 3,500 RPM). Let the tool’s weight do the work—avoid heavy pressure to prevent swirl marks and premature wear.

Dry Polishing vs. Wet Polishing

Our discs are engineered for dry polishing & resurfacing. Most contractors and DIY users prefer dry because it only requires a standard 7″ variable-speed polisher with GFCI (corded or cordless). No costly water-fed machine is needed.

Wet polishing can extend disc life by keeping the pad cooler, but it requires specialized equipment and a water supply. Dry polishing is simpler, faster to set up, and keeps costs low while delivering excellent results.

⚠️ Safety: Keep RPM ≤ 3,500. Avoid overheating. Use GFCI protection and appropriate PPE. Always ensure proper ventilation and dust control.

Aftercare

Refill the pool and balance pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness to prevent future etching and scale. With proper water care, your resurfaced finish will stay smooth for years.

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Compare grits in the Pool Plaster Disc Grit Guide.