Pool insulation is a process that extends the life of the pool by preventing water leaks and makes it easier to clean. This process is done by using materials with high levels of impermeability and water impermeability. Suitable materials are preferred considering the size of the pool and the ground structure.
Insulation is not only intended to prevent the water in the pool from coming out. It is also intended to prevent the entry of foreign bodies, bacteria and microorganisms into the water from outside.
What are Pool Waterproofing Materials?
Waterproofing materials, which extend the life of pools and prevent water losses, consist of various products with different structural properties. These products prevent the passage of water by closing the pores on the inner and outer surfaces of the pool, thus both saving water and extending the life of the structure. The most commonly used waterproofing materials include pool paint, pure polyurea, bituminous membranes, polyurethane fluids and liquid rubbers.
Details on the common ones are as follows:
Cement Based Insulation Materials
These materials also have different types within themselves. They can be applied to pool surfaces after they are easily prepared. It is especially recommended to apply before screed applications and ceramic coating. Thus, it provides a very effective performance in waterproofing.
Cement-based insulation materials respond effectively to the needs at the points where they are used. It has high chlorine ion resistance. Thus, it is not affected by chlorine and other chemicals used to clean pool water. It maintains its properties and fulfills its function for many years without any problems.
Although there are many alternatives at this point, DryFix FULL FLEX 2K stands out with its superior features. The prominent features of this product are as follows:
- It has a two-component structure.
- Extremely easy to prepare and apply, this material has flexibility and high adhesion performance.
- It provides environmentally friendly solutions thanks to its solvent-free structure. So much so that it is suitable for use even in drinking water tanks.
- It has the ability to bridge cracks.
- Resistant to freezing and thawing cycles.
This material, which has a gray color, is started to be used immediately after preparation. The application time is 2 hours and it is recommended to apply at least two coats.
Waterproofing Tapes
The most critical points in pool insulation or other liquid insulation are the corners and edges. The uneven structure of these areas makes it difficult to apply insulation materials. Special tapes are used to prevent this problem in the insulation of pools.
These products, also called chamfer tapes, are applied to all vertical and horizontal edges and corners. The tapes effectively fill capillary gaps, cracks and pores in corners and edges. Thus, weaknesses in such areas are prevented.
Joint Sealants
The cement-based insulation material applied to the pools is usually covered with ceramic tiles. In order to prevent water from passing through the gaps between the ceramic coatings, this area should be filled with grout. However, unlike the joints used in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, the water and chemical resistance of the materials here must be high.
Joint sealants developed for use in in-pool ceramics meet the needs in this area. DryFix EPO GROUT is one such product. Its prominent features are as follows:
- High resistance to chemicals, oils and waste water.
- This product, which has antibacterial properties, prevents the formation of mold and fungus.
- It has a dirt-repellent structure and is extremely easy to clean.
- Suitable for use in 2-10 mm wide joints.
- It is an epoxy-based substance and is extremely safe.
PVC Membrane
Another material used in pool insulation is PVC membranes. Waterproof, flexible and durable, this material also has a high resistance to UV rays. It is mostly produced in sheets and can be applied to both the walls and floors of pools. Its easy application makes it widely preferred in large areas.
Polyurethane Based Pool Insulation Materials
They are materials with high elasticity. They are applied to the relevant areas by rubbing or spraying. There are single-component and two-component options. Adheres to the applied surfaces and provides high insulation. Resistant to UV rays, chemicals and temperature changes.
How to Insulate a Pool?
Pool insulation is a process consisting of stages in itself. Each of these stages is very important. If there is a slight negligence or deficiency in any of the stages, the result will not meet expectations. The steps to be followed while insulating the pool are as follows:
Surface Preparation
Before applying insulation materials, the surface must be prepared. First, a detailed examination is made for surface preparation. If there are protrusions, swellings and roughnesses, these are first removed. Surfaces are smoothed by sanding and scraping method. Afterwards, cracks, holes and gaps on the surfaces are closed with repair mortar.
In the last stage, the surfaces are cleaned in detail. Attention is paid to every detail. Correction and cleaning are critical for an effective adhesion between the insulation material and the surface.
Pool Insulation Material Selection
There are different options in terms of pool insulation material. All of these give effective results. Which one to choose is decided by looking at the environmental conditions and the structure of the pool. For example; cement-based materials may be the ideal option for pools built of concrete and to be covered with ceramic tiles. In addition, epoxy-based or polyurethane-based options also meet expectations.
When choosing cement-based insulation material, it is necessary to turn to options that are resistant to negative and positive water pressure. Otherwise, the insulation will not last long.
Application of Insulation Tape
Before the insulation material is applied to the pool, chamfer tape is applied to the corners and edges. This tape prevents any water leakage from vertical and horizontal corners. It is very important to use the chamfer bands correctly.
Application of Insulation Material
Insulation materials are usually applied in two layers. Before application, the materials must be prepared in accordance with the instructions. Afterwards, it is applied to the relevant areas in accordance with the instructions. Depending on the material, the application can be done as spreading, spraying or plastering.
After the first coat is applied, wait for the time specified in the instructions. Then the second coat is applied. Pay attention to the edges and corners and make sure that the tapes fulfill their functions.
Tightness Test
Wait for the time specified in the instructions and allow the materials to dry completely. Afterwards, a detailed inspection is carried out. Then the pool is filled with water and checked for water leakage. The process is completed by eliminating the problems detected at this stage.
Along with the pool, other areas are also waterproofed. Silicone is applied to the points where leaks may occur and water passage is prevented.
What to do with a Leaking Pool?
In leaking pools, first of all, it is tried to determine where the leakage is located. Thus, much more effective results are obtained and the repair process becomes easier. If it is determined where the leaks occur, the problem in the relevant area is repaired with appropriate insulation materials and the problem is solved.
When it cannot be determined where the leaks occur, the entire pool must be re-processed. The isolation material, which is used to eliminate pool leaks and is in liquid form, is applied to all surfaces. After the application, it is waited for the time specified in the instructions for drying. Then the pool is checked by filling with water. If the relevant repair material is applied correctly to the horizontal and vertical points, the leaks are eliminated.
