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Sanctuary School & Studio
Welcome to our School & Studio! Where you can Learn "how It's Done" and pick out options via our studio below within the sub service you have selected to view:
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School: Knowledge on how the sub-service is done.
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Studio: Options on all materials/colors for selected sub-service.
Pool Build & Remodel
Finishes
What Are Pool Finishes?
- Pool finishes are the interior surfaces that line the walls and floor of your Orange County pool, providing both waterproofing and aesthetic appeal. These finishes come in a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Traditional plaster finishes offer a smooth, classic look, while modern alternatives like pebble and quartz finishes provide added texture and durability. The choice of pool finish can significantly impact the look and feel of your pool, influencing the water color and overall ambiance. For a timeless look in your San Clemente pool, consider a white plaster finish, or for a more natural feel in your Anaheim Hills pool, explore the various colors and textures of pebble finishes. Sanctuary Design & Build can guide you through the selection process, ensuring your pool finish complements your Orange County lifestyle and enhances your backyard oasis.
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School
Our official "How It's Done" section to help educate our clients to understand our industry leading installation process!​​
Course: A Guide to Pool Finishes in Orange County
Process - Pebble & Plaster Finish Application
At Sanctuary Design & Build, a leading design-build firm in Orange County, we create stunning and durable pool surfaces with expert pool finish application. Discover our step-by-step guide on how we bring your pool to life with beautiful and long-lasting finishes like plaster, pebble, and quartz. Unless otherwise stated in your contract, all installations pertaining to pool finishes are performed in the exact outlined method! From meticulous surface preparation and bonding to precise application and finishing, we ensure a smooth, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing pool interior for your Orange County home. Our unique Sanctuary Sequence, a comprehensive site assessment and planning process, sets the stage for successful pool renovation and new pool construction projects throughout Orange County, including cities like Orange, Fullerton, and Yorba Linda.
Phase 1: Pool Surface Preparation for New or Refinished Pools in Orange County
This crucial first phase focuses on preparing the pool shell, whether for a new pool construction or an existing pool refinishing project, to ensure proper bonding and a smooth, long-lasting application for your chosen pool finish (plaster, pebble, or quartz) in your Orange County backyard. This preparation, a critical step for any general remodeling or new pool construction project involving pool finishes, includes:
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Draining and Cleaning: For refinishing projects, the pool is completely drained, and the existing surface is thoroughly cleaned to remove any debris, loose material, or contaminants. For new pools, this step involves ensuring the shell is clean and ready for bonding.
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Bonding Agent Application: A bonding agent is applied to the pool shell to create a strong adhesive surface for the new finish. This ensures proper adhesion and prevents delamination in both new and refinished pools.
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Repair and Preparation: The pool shell is inspected for any cracks, chips, or other imperfections. These imperfections are repaired, and the surface is ensured to be smooth and ready for the finish application. In refinishing projects, this may involve chipping out loose plaster or shotcrete. In new construction, this ensures the shotcrete/gunite is properly cured and prepared.
Phase 2: Applying the Pool Finish in Orange County
This phase involves the precise application of your chosen pool finish (plaster, pebble, or quartz) to create a beautiful and durable pool interior in your Orange County home, whether it’s a new build or a pool refinishing project. This precise process includes:
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Mixing the Finish: The chosen pool finish is mixed according to the manufacturer's specifications.
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Application: The finish is applied to the prepared pool shell using specialized tools and techniques, ensuring even coverage and a smooth, consistent surface.
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Troweling/Smoothing: The finish is troweled or smoothed to achieve the desired texture.
Phase 3: Curing, Acid Washing, Initial Scrubbing (For Plaster), and Cleanup for Orange County Pool Finishes
This final phase completes the pool finish installation, focusing on the curing process, performing an acid wash (if necessary), an initial scrubbing of the surface (especially important for plaster finishes), and cleaning up the work area for a stunning and ready-to-fill pool for your Orange County home, whether it’s a new pool or a refinished pool. This detailed finishing process includes:
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Curing: The pool finish is allowed to cure for the recommended time.
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Acid Washing (If Necessary): An acid wash may be performed to remove any remaining plaster dust or mineral deposits.
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Scrubbing (For Plaster): For plaster finishes, an initial scrubbing process is performed to remove plaster dust and begin to expose the smooth, finished surface. Further scrubbing is typically required by the pool owner or maintenance professional following the initial fill.
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Filling the Pool: The pool is carefully filled with water according to industry best practices.
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Cleanup: The pool area is thoroughly cleaned.
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Studio
Our Official Studio will guide you through all options we carry within the selected category to expertly guide you in your decision making process!
Studio Display: Our selection of pool finish options!
First, Let's Review The Pool Finish Options & Their Differences
1. Plaster ($)
Description: This is the most traditional and often most affordable pool finish. It's a mixture of white cement, white marble aggregate (sand), and water.
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Pros: Smooth surface, classic look, relatively inexpensive.
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Cons: Can be susceptible to staining and etching over time, requires more frequent acid washes.
2. Pebble ($$)
Description: A mix of pebbles and white cement. Comes in various colors and pebble sizes to create different textures and water color effects.
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Pros: Durable, long-lasting, resists staining and fading, comes in a wide range of colors and textures.
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Cons: Can be rougher on feet than plaster, more expensive than plaster.
3. Quartz ($$$)
Description: Similar to pebble finishes but uses quartz aggregate instead of pebbles. Quartz is harder and more durable than pebble.
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Pros: Extremely durable, resists staining and fading, smooth texture, comes in a variety of colors.
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Cons: Most expensive pool finish option.
Below you can review all colors & options categorized by type of Finish
1. Plaster Pool Finish Options
Plaster is a classic and cost-effective choice for pool finishes in Orange County. This traditional finish, composed of white cement, marble aggregate, and water, creates a smooth and classic look for your pool. While plaster requires regular maintenance and can be susceptible to staining over time, it remains a popular option for its affordability and timeless aesthetic. Sanctuary Design & Build specializes in pool plastering, ensuring proper application and finishing techniques for a long-lasting and beautiful pool surface.
2. Pebble Pool Finish Options
Pebble finishes offer a durable and visually appealing alternative to traditional plaster for Orange County pools. These finishes, composed of small pebbles mixed with white cement, come in a variety of colors and textures, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your pool. Pebble finishes are known for their longevity, stain resistance, and ability to create unique water color effects. Sanctuary Design & Build expertly installs pebble pool finishes, ensuring a smooth and long-lasting surface for your Orange County pool.
3. Quartz Pool Finish Options
Quartz finishes are a premium choice for Orange County pool owners seeking exceptional durability and a luxurious aesthetic. These finishes utilize quartz aggregate, which is harder and more durable than pebble, ensuring a long-lasting and low-maintenance surface. Quartz finishes come in a variety of colors and offer a smooth texture that's gentle on the feet. Sanctuary Design & Build specializes in quartz pool finish installation, providing a high-quality and visually stunning finish for your Orange County pool.