How to fill, smooth and paint over top edge of fibreglass pool?

[geoffr]

We're nearing completion of having pavers laid around the pool, and now need to address the area just under the protruding edge of the pavers, at the top of the fibreglass where the bedding sand/cement meets the pool. I'll need to smooth off the cement and fill some voids in some places. What should I use to fill and smooth before applying a paint?

Regarding the paint, I assume an epoxy paint of some kind? Someone in the pool renovation business recommended using concrete paint to paint the affected area. Does this sound OK? The fibreglass was recently recoated, so we don't plan to paint the entire pool, just the top where needed. I'll also need to be able to get a colour to match with the pool colour ("Dove White", I believe).

Any tips or good advice appreciated. Thanks!

Bedding cement at top of pool, under paverBedding cement at top of pool, under paver

[MitchellMc]

Hi @geoffr,

You could use mortar to fill the holes and smooth out the surface, improving the appearance. Alternatively, you might want to test using Sika 300ml White Premium Swimming Pool Silicone Sealant—if the colour matches, you can apply this sealant to the bedding material. Silicone is easy to smooth out and will provide a good finish.

For painting the mortar or bedding cement, you'll need a product designed to withstand exposure to chlorinated or saltwater, particularly in the splash zone. I’ve confirmed that Dulux Concrete Paint is suitable for these conditions and would work well for your needs. Our in-store team can assist you with finding a close match to your Dove White.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[geoffr]

Hi Mitchell, thanks very much for the reply!

Do you know if the pool silicone can be painted over with the concrete paint?

Much appreciated.

Regards,

Geoff

[geoffr]

Would it be a feasible and lasting solution to affix a row of feature tiles under the pavers at the top of the pool wall? If so, what would be the recommended approach and products? 

thanks again,

Geoff

[MitchellMc]

That could work, though the tile adhesive won't work over the painted surface @geoffr. The paint would need to be removed to reveal a porous material for it to bind properly.

Mitchell

[geoffr]

Thanks Mitchell. Do you know if there could be a powerful silicon product that would fasten the tiles and be paintable with the concrete paint?

[MitchellMc]

Silicones are not designed to adhere tiles @geoffr. I wouldn't recommend you use it as although it would hold them in place temporarily, it's likely to fail at some point in the future.  

Mitchell

[geoffr]

Ok thanks Mike. I have a silicon by FixTech "15" that claims adherence - used in the marine industry (recommended by a tile company). But I'm still unsure... Are you familiar with this, and if it can do what it claims?

homeThanks,

Geoff

[MitchellMc]

Hi @geoffr,

I'm not familiar with that product, but if it states it is suitable for tiles and use around pools, then it sounds reasonable. It's very similar to some of our marine polyurethanes such as Sika 310ml White Sikaflex 291 Marine Polyurethane Sealant or Selleys 410g White Marine Flex Sealant. My only real concern with using these types of products is that they are flexible and then you'll be adding a non-flexible cement-based grout. I think that could cause issues with cracks in the future, but those concerns might be unfounded.

It would be best to seek advice from a professional that deals with pool tile installation.

Mitchell