Follow the instructions below to ensure impressive results with MicroGlass...
MicroGlass works on NEW PLASTER installations (for new pools and existing pools) as well as EXISTING PLASTER. The application procedures are similar for both, but there are some differences, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully for your particular situation.
APPLICATION
INSTRUCTIONS FOR
NEW POOLS & SPAS
SURFACE PREPARATION:
STEP 1: Follow the surface preparation depending on your new finish below.
NEW EXPOSED QUARTZ OR PEBBLE FINISH:
After installing the exposed quartz or pebble finish per manufacturer instructions, thoroughly expose the finish with an industry standard acid-wash. Neutralize the finish with a baking soda or soda ash wash. Rinse the neutralizing wash with clean water and drain. Ensure finish is completely dry (using fans/blowers if needed). Surface must also be free from sand or other debris which may inhibit MicroGlass penetration. Note: Non-Acid cleaners may also be used to achieve surface preparation if desired. Proceed to STEP 2.
NEW SMOOTH TROWLED WHITE PLASTER FINISHES:
Allow Plaster to reached final set. Ensure pool finish is free from sand or other debris that may inhibit MicroGlass penetration. Proceed to STEP 2.
NEW SMOOTH TROWLED COLORED PLASTER FINISHES:
If a setting agent like Calcium Chloride was used in the color plastermix, the pool finish must be water-cured for at least 24 hours, drained, and allowed to dry completely. Test a small area to ensure no effect on the color. Proceed to STEP 2.
MICROGLASS APPLICATION:
STEP 2: Gently agitate MicroGlass.
Do not dilute. Apply MicroGlass using a low-pressure sprayer with a fine mist fan-nozzle.
STEP 3: Apply MicroGlass in thin coats and allow product to penetrate pool finish. Avoid over-saturation, as this will reduce absorption of following coats.
STEP4: Back-roll sprayed area using a 1.5” absorbent roller to ensure uniform application and to minimize runs before product dries. In low-lying areas, distribute any puddled product with roller and absorb excess MicroGlass with a dry sponge.
STEP 5: Use a clean cloth to wipe tile, fittings, lights, aluminum, or stainless steel before product dries.
Application tips: Working in 5 ft. wide sections, lightly spray in left/right and right/left motion while working down the wall. Slightly overlapping spray pattern is permissible. After back-rolling the pool finish and wiping tile and fittings, proceed to the next 5 ft. wide section until all walls and stairs receive the first coat. Next, apply a first coat to pool floors. Once the pool finish is dry to touch, apply a second coat to pool walls, stairs, and floor as described above. On average, two thin coats of MicroGlass is sufficient, however a more porous finish may require additional coats. For larger Commercial or Residential projects, it is advised that one applicator sprays the MicroGlass while one or more follow with rollers and clean cloth for wiping tile and fittings. For additional tips, visit www.MicroGlassLLC.com/install.
Drying, Filling Pool and Cleaning Equipment.
STEP 6: Fill pool once product is completely absorbed and surface is dry (2-6 hours depending on ambient temperatures). Rinse sprayer, rollers, and rags with clean water. Note: Over application or filling pool before product is completely absorbed may lead to a white surface residue. If residue occurs, spot-treat with light underwater sanding or acid wash.
FOR EXISTING POOL FINISHES
A. Drain and follow acid-wash, neutralization, and water rinse steps above.
B. Remove calcium nodules, stains, and calcium deposits/scale from surface (if present).
C. Repair any open cracks or cosmetic damage (chips or spalling etc.) before applying MicroGlass.
D . Proceed to STEP 2 above.
PRECAUTIONS: Do not apply below 45ºF (7.22ºC). MicroGlass may be slippery while drying. For new smooth colored plaster treated with calcium chloride, see Note in STEP 1. Ensure all tile, aluminum, stainless steel, glass, lights etc. are wiped with a dry cloth before product dries. Always test MicroGlass on a small section of pool surface for application rate/ penetration and ensure desired effect of finish and color.
A note on Color Finishes & Chloride-Based Set Accelerators
What you need to know:
- Calcium chloride is a set accelerator that is commonly used in pool industry.
- Calcium chloride used to expedite the final set, particularly on new colored pool finishes in colder climates.
- Calcium chloride contains an active Chloride ion.
- When this chloride ion is active (aka has not been neutralized with enough water or drying time), this chloride ion causes MicroGlass to whiten on the pool finish.
What you need to do when applying MicroGlass when Calcium Chloride has been used:
- New Smooth Troweled Colored Plaster: Water cure new smooth troweled colored plaster for 24 hours and drain. Allow plaster to dry for at least 4 hours before applying MicroGlass.
- For New Exposed Aggregate (Quartz or Pebble): The chloride ion is naturally neutralized during the standard water and acid exposure process. MicroGlass can be used on these types of finishes after the final acid wash, neutralization, and when the surface is dry.
- For Existing Finishes that once Contained Calcium Chloride Set Accelerators: The chloride ion has long been neutralized. Apply MicroGlass following normal instructions.