We're completely renovating our pool (new plaster, tile, and coping as well as deck resurfacing). We previously replastered the pool over 10 years ago where the old plaster was only partially chipped out below the tile line (original tile remained intact). Based on the advice in this forum I specified in the contract "Full chip-out of all layers of plaster using a flat head chisel" which triggered an extra charge. For some reason, the contractor installed the new coping and tile before starting the full chip out (which is still in process). I inspected the job and realize they did not remove the original plaster that was behind the old tile. As you can see from the picture looking up from the deep end of the pool, there are three layers behind the new tile:
1. original old plaster
2. a thin layer of mortar that was applied over the old plaster (note how porous the mortar is)
3. a layer of thinset to adhere the tile to the new mortar
Is this standard? How should the new tile have been installed?
I contracted and paid extra for a full chip out and expected they would remove the old plaster at the tile line before installing the new tile. I see two issues with what they did. First, since the old plaster was not removed it could delaminate and/or crack (a problem I was already having). Second, water can get behind the new tile and seep into the thin layer of porous mortar and cause the tile to pop off the next time we have a big freeze (which we are starting to experience every winter here in Austin!). I feel they need to remove the new tile, chip out all the plaster, and install the new tile properly. This needs to happen before they start replastering. I'd appreciate any additional feedback that helps support my case as I expect my contractor will try to argue it's unnecessary.
1. original old plaster
2. a thin layer of mortar that was applied over the old plaster (note how porous the mortar is)
3. a layer of thinset to adhere the tile to the new mortar
Is this standard? How should the new tile have been installed?
I contracted and paid extra for a full chip out and expected they would remove the old plaster at the tile line before installing the new tile. I see two issues with what they did. First, since the old plaster was not removed it could delaminate and/or crack (a problem I was already having). Second, water can get behind the new tile and seep into the thin layer of porous mortar and cause the tile to pop off the next time we have a big freeze (which we are starting to experience every winter here in Austin!). I feel they need to remove the new tile, chip out all the plaster, and install the new tile properly. This needs to happen before they start replastering. I'd appreciate any additional feedback that helps support my case as I expect my contractor will try to argue it's unnecessary.
