How to render keystone blocks beside pool?

XTW77

Hi, we’re updating our dated pool area and have a low wall of keystone blocks edging the outer area. 

We would like to render the blocks making a smooth wall but wanted to know the best way to fill in the gaps  between each block and best materials to get a nice rendered finish.

Also, any suggestions to give the stencilled concrete a lift also welcomed.

Thank Tom

JacobZ

Hi Tom (@XTW77),

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is wonderful to have you with us.

The majority of the problem here is creating a flat surface to render on. I can't say I'm aware of a product that you could apply to simply fill the large gaps created by the angles of the stones. A mortar product applied in a few layers might work, but I couldn't guarantee it would last because of the likelihood of the blocks shifting.

A few thoughts come to mind. The first is cutting the stones back so they are all flush with each other, the second is to remove the blocks and replace them with something flat, like a besser block and the third is to cut some blocks to slot into the angled notches and then use mortar to fix them to the stones.

The other option is to build some formwork around the blocks and pour concrete to fill in the gaps and create a flatter surface.

Ultimately, the biggest issue here is dealing with those angles. Once the surface is flat, rendering is relatively simple.

Allow me to tag @AlanM52, @Nailbag and @Dave-1 to see what they think.

For the stencilled concrete, a good clean with a Pressure Washer would be a good place to start. Once clean, you could use a concrete paint or sealer to freshen up the look and give it a bit of a lift.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob