How to repair pool concrete after rock garden removal?

[Techirish]

The previous owners of our property in Melbourne had a honeycomb rock garden at the pool's edge, with some rocks embedded into the top of the pool wall. We've since removed these but the pool wall clearly needs dental work to make the top of the wall flat before before we can consider re-doing the pool coping. I'm keen to have a crack at this myself but I have a feeling I will need to reinforce any concrete added to the top of the wall. What method should I use? The quotes I've had to redo the wall and coping are crazy money, considering we're in the in-demand season also. Thanks!After rock removalBefore rock removalTop of pool wall

[EricL]

Hello @Techirish 

In this particular instance, I suggest engaging the services of a swimming pool restoration specialist. Using ordinary cement to restore the side of the pool is not ideal. The professional will be putting in additives and other chemical products to modify the cement base itself so that it can be used for swimming pool applications. As much as I would like to recommend doing it as a D.I.Y project, it must be carried out by a professional so that the application can be done safely and in compliance with swimming pool regulations.

One possible alternative is to disguise the surface with a low-level deck using Ekodeck. You can bring the structure of the deck right to the edge of the pool and make it look like it is part of the design.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @AlanM52 for their recommendations.

Eric

[Techirish]

Thanks Eric, I had a feeling this would be the way to go. I also considered bringing the proposed deck to the edge but that will still require the wall to be built up. Open to other suggestions but I think I may just have to get in line for a pool specialist!

[Nailbag]

Hi @Techirish 

This is definitely not a project for an inexperienced DIY'r. There is quite a lot of complexities here and would agree with @EricL in looking at a company specialising in pool restoration/repairs.

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Good morning @Techirish 

Now this is an interesting idea/project for sure  

I do agree with @EricL and @Nailbag that I would NOT start this as a first time DIYer or DIYer for concreting. I would probarrly go with a professional pool restoration company as a wiser choice (for any issues resulting down the track which would end up costing more $$$$$

If you were to go the route of self repair.

- Learn about concrete, the type of concrete for pools.

- lean how to join old and new concrete together, bonding agents, expansion, re-enforcing.

- Asses if there is any weakness, fine cracks from those palms that you have removed in the wall of the pool.

- Cost it yourself. Materials (type of concreet) and labour even if you are doing it yourself, add 20% at the very least. will give you a start in understanding what needs to be done.

- insurance questions, before the palms were removed was the pool covered, if you restore it yourself will it be covered or if a professional does it will it be covered.

As a secondary idea, and will cost a lot less, do you have the old stones still? Remortar them back and pressure wash them before hand. Or new mortar and use the stones you have. Even go for a low mortar to make level and then pave. So you end up with a step down from the rest of the pavers but a smooth edge at least? I am unsure what type of mortar to use around water and either salt or chlorinated water so that would need looking into.  If it fails you will only have lost your time and materials.

Would be intersting to see what way you restore the edge.

Dave