NJPools.club Community

Hey folks, just squeezed in a quick post between meetings. Had my pool replastered last month with a Hayward VS pump installed at the same time. Noticed some hairline cracks in the plaster, mostly around the steps and returns. Contractor says it's normal curing shrinkage, but I'm wondering if the pump's variable speed could be causing pressure issues during the curing phase. Anyone with similar experience? Need to resolve this efficiently - don't have time for drawn-out pool drama.

**BRING ON THE CRACKS!** Just kidding, but seriously - this sounds like weak curing to me. My Crossfit box has a recovery pool, and when they replastered last year, the contractor emphasized **PROPER CURING CONDITIONS** like it was a WOD. If your Hayward pump was running during the critical first 72 hours, especially at high speeds, that could absolutely stress the plaster. Did they follow the manufacturer's fill/cure protocol? Mine required 24 hours of NO PUMP before gradual ramp-up. This isn't about being normal - it's about doing it RIGHT.

Early adopter of Hayward's Omni automation here! Actually, this might be a tech integration issue rather than defective plaster. The new VS pumps have sophisticated startup sequences that contractors sometimes overlook. If the system was programmed to auto-start at installation without accounting for cure time, you could get micro-vibrations during the most vulnerable period. Check your Omni log (if you have it) for pump activity in the first 48 hours. Also, what plaster brand? Some newer quartz blends are more sensitive to equipment vibration during cure.

Thanks both. @SunSoaker49 - They did run the pump immediately after filling, said it was necessary for mixing chemicals. @AquaAce - It's standard white plaster, not quartz. No automation system, just the basic VS pump with manual control. The cracks aren't structural (no loose material), but they're visible and spreading slightly. Given Florida's heat, could this just be rapid curing? My contractor is offering to acid wash to 'blend' them, but that feels like a band-aid.

**IMMEDIATE PUMP = FAIL.** That's your answer right there. Plaster needs hydration equilibrium before introducing turbulence - it's basic materials science. The Hayward pump isn't defective, but the installation protocol was. Acid wash won't fix improper curing; it'll just thin the already compromised surface. Demand they drain and replaster with proper cure time, or you'll be dealing with staining and deterioration by next season. This isn't normal - it's contractor error. Document everything.

Actually, @SunSoaker49 might be right about the protocol, but replastering seems extreme for hairline cracks. Many manufacturers consider these 'craze cracks' acceptable if <0.5mm wide. Since you're in Florida, the heat accelerates curing, which can exaggerate shrinkage patterns. Before going nuclear: 1) Measure crack width with a gauge, 2) Contact Hayward support with your pump model/serial - they have engineers who specialize in plaster compatibility, 3) Ask your contractor for the plaster manufacturer's cure documentation. This might be a warranty issue between the plaster co and installer.