RENOVATION - SERAPOOL Porcelain

149 the product can be applied directly to the reinforced concrete substrate without the need for a primer coat. First, the edge and corner joints must be insulated with a bevel strip. Then, the first coat of product is applied, and an alkali-resistant mesh is laid over the wet product. Depending on the air temperature, the second coat is applied after 4-6 hours. Porcelain tile application should be done at least 5 days after the cement- based insulation application. Polyurea- based products are applied using the spraying method. Before application, an epoxy-based primer should be applied to the surface and the wet primer should be allowed to cure. Once the primer has cured, the product can be applied in a single coat using the spraying method. Polyurea applied by spraying dries in approximately 30 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Porcelain tile application can be done approximately 1 day later. Polyurethane-based products can be applied by both spraying and brushing. As with polyurea applications, the surface must be prepared with an epoxy-based primer before application. Is the Insulation Process the Same for Newly Built and Renovated Pools? Can Application Be Done Over Existing Tiles? Although the insulation process is similar for newly built and renovated pools, renovation requires more preparation. Application over existing coatings is not recommended because the condition of the underlying surface is completely unpredictable. Applying porcelain tiles over existing pool coatings is not appropriate. In renovation projects, the existing coating is removed, and after the necessary surface preparations are made, the insulation application is carried out. Porcelain tiles are then applied. Why Should Porcelain Tiles Be Preferred in Pools? What Are the Technical Differences Between Porcelain and Ceramic? High-quality raw materials are used in the production of porcelain tiles. Porcelain tiles are produced at higher temperatures, which gives them a more non-porous and durable structure. Therefore, porcelain tiles are not affected by UV rays, do not fade or become dull over time, and retain their original appearance for a long time. Porcelain tiles have a water absorption rate of less than 5 per thousand. Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, have a much higher water absorption rate. Thanks to their low water absorption rate, porcelain tiles are more resistant to pool chemicals, external factors, abrasion, breakage, and extreme temperature changes. Their low water absorption rate also prevents bacterial growth and makes them easy to clean, creating a much more hygienic pool environment. With these features, porcelain tiles are a more ideal material for pools. How to Choose the Right Tile Based on the Pool’s Shape? For circular and curved pools, specially sized or mesh products should be preferred to allow for easier installation and to prevent injuries that may occur due to sharp edges or corners. For flat and angular pools, 33x66 cm porcelain tiles can be preferred to reduce the number of joints. Olympic pools use 12.5x25 cm porcelain tiles. THE RIGHT POOL APPLICATIONWITH QUESTIONS & ANSWERS MAPEI TÜRKİYE Technical Application Specialist Sedat ORAN