Waterproofing of swimming pools
With Paint & Epoxy Coating
PC-Sealcoat® EP SP
Two-component, epoxy protective coating for pools and concrete surfaces.
PC-Prime® EP 2C WB
Two-component water-based epoxy primer for concrete surfaces.
CHARACTER OF THE ISSUE – REQUIREMENTS
A common and cost-effective method for finishing the surface of a swimming pool is to apply a specialized paint, such as an epoxy coating. This solution not only proves to be technically efficient but is also significantly more affordable than installing ceramic tiles.
The choice of epoxy coating has a substantial impact on the selection of waterproofing methods, as it imposes specific requirements that must be met. Consequently, the waterproofing layer applied beneath the epoxy paint must fulfill the following criteria:
Effective waterproofing capabilities.
Adequate elasticity, particularly at the pool’s bottom, which experiences expansion and contraction stresses due to solar radiation when the pool is empty.
Strong adhesion to the substrate, along with resistance to potential negative pressure that may develop, for instance, when the pool is drained in the presence of a periodic or permanent water table in the surrounding area.
The epoxy coating itself should possess the following properties:
- Sufficient elasticity to prevent cracking caused by potential expansion and contraction stresses.
- Resistance to water and the chemicals used for pool water treatment (e.g., chlorine).
- Durability against various weather conditions, such as solar radiation and frost.
Solution
Accurately calculating the pool frame is crucial to ensure its ability to withstand hydrostatic pressure effectively. To meet the waterproofing requirements of the pool, we recommend applying PC-Sealcoat® Elastic, a highly flexible, two-component, brushable waterproofing slurry to the walls and bottom. The waterproofing layer created by PC-Sealcoat® Elastic offers several advantages:
- Effective waterproofing
- Strong adhesion to the substrate and high resistance
- Exceptional elasticity
- Long-lasting durability
- Resistance to negative pressures, safeguarding the pool against leaks and water ingress
Additionally, during the concreting of the pool frame, it is advisable to incorporate PC-Conblend® WP waterproofing admixture into the concrete at a ratio of 0.2-0.5% of the cement weight.
To fulfill the requirements for elasticity and chemical resistance of the coating, the application of PC-Sealcoat® EP SP epoxy coating is recommended. This two-component epoxy system offers enhanced elasticity and resistance to friction, while also demonstrating robust resistance to various chemicals, including diluted acids, alkalis, petroleum products, certain solvents, water, seawater, and weathering.
