Pix please.

Scott

These photos aren't very good, but here goes:

Cracks in wall

More cracks (swim out)

More cracks in swimout

One of the dark patches

We've been told to fill the pool back up with water to see if it leaks.

Any comments would be greatly appreciated

Was it windy when they applied it?

Was the finish mixed with bags from the same batch?

Scott

It wasn't a windy day (that I remember), and I don't know if the bags were the same batch. That's a good point though - I wish I had known enough to have checked. We called the PB today about the cracks and he sent the contractor who did the gunite over (a different one from the guy who did the original plaster and acid washed the pool yesterday) Anyway, he patched the cracks. He said we'd probably be able to see the patches because we know they are there. I guess I'll just have to see. Now I'm worried that this may have voided the warranty, and if the patches really show and the plaster is messed up, who is responsible for fixing it? PB, original plasterer or the contractor who did the patch? Time for a glass of wine!

I don't like the looks of that one bit.

I'd insist on a full replaster. Pain, I know (I've been through it) but you want it done right.

Thanks for the comments. Do you think it's okay that they patched it, or should I have insisted on new plaster? I don't want to be unreasonable, but I also don't want to be taken advantage of. Also, I didn't really think I'd get new plaster no matter how much I insisted on it. My pool is only a year and a half old! Thanks again!

What's it look like now?

Scott

The cracks really show now. It may be the cream coming to the surface.

Those are not normal and IMO it has nothing to do with the plaster job. My first guess is that the pool shell is settling and the cracks are showing the stress of the shell flexing and stretching. The shell could be cracked underneath but its possible that it is still intact and the plaster is cracking because its not as flexible as the gunite or shotcrete.

If you contracted with the PB for the plaster you have to pursue them for whatever remediation is obtainable.

Reno,
I have seen similar cracking in a lot of remodels. Rarely has it been related to a shell crack. On steps sometimes they put the material too thick in the cove and it will crack as it is not structural. I have also seen similar cracks in steps related to use stacked rebound ect for steps.
I have also seen similar cracks where the pebble is put on too thin, or not properly hydrated during application. I saw one mention of wind, this can dry the new surface too fast and cause crazing.

pb, my gut reaction to the first picture was a stressed shell probably from the direction of the cracks and maybe because it seems to continue into the tile line. After looking at the photos a little closer, I am still "guessing" that the shell is stressed. The cracks are far more severe than what I would consider crazing. In the last picture of the pool full, it looks like the right side of the tile is getting lower but that could just be the photo or the tile job or a preconcieved interpretaion on my part. Its just a guess based upon very little information.