How to Repair Rough Pool Plaster Surfaces

Rough pool plaster — often caused by overexposed aggregate, trowel marks, scale buildup, or surface etching — can make swimming uncomfortable and damage skin and swimsuits. Instead of costly re-plastering, restore your surface using non-corrosive Pool Plaster Discs designed specifically for controlled dry polishing and surface correction. This simple two-step process smooths rough areas, removes surface stains and scale, and restores a clean, swim-ready finish.

Why Our Non-Corrosive Discs Work

  • Non-Corrosive Matrix — won’t rust or introduce metal residue like traditional electroplated pads.
  • Saltwater Safe — stable performance around salt systems; won’t interfere with salt generator cells or 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 buildup, calcium nodules, topical stains, and light etching without damaging sound plaster beneath.

Common Causes of Rough Pool Plaster

  • Poor Water Chemistry: High pH or calcium hardness (CH) imbalance quickly leads to scale buildup and surface 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 buildup, very rough plaster, deep trowel marks Aggressive cut that removes heavy buildup and leaves a slight, uniform texture.
70 Grit (WD7070) Blends scratches after 50 grit for semi-coarse surface refinement Refines the scratch pattern and prepares the surface for final polishing
120 Grit (WD7120) Final smoothing pass on all plaster surface types Smooth, polished, swim-ready plaster surface

Need help choosing the right disc? 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 surface roughness.
  • Work in approximately 5 ft × 5 ft sections using light, even pressure while keeping the pad flat.

  • Vacuum or rinse between passes to remove residue and help control heat buildup.

  • Goal: a uniform, lightly textured surface with surface defects and scale removed.

Step 2 — Smooth & Polish

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

Dry Polishing vs. Wet Polishing

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

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

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

Aftercare

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

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Compare disc in the Pool Plaster Disc Grit Guide.