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Safe cement sealer

I have cement swimming pool that I plan to stock with fish for my 'ponics. Do I need to seal it? If so, any foodsafe submersible sealers that are also inexpensive that you recommend?

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Permalink Reply by Phil Kabza on December 16, 2012 at 8:11pm

There are a number of cementitious waterproofing compounds for application to concrete that are also rated as safe for use with potable water (NSF/ANSI 61). Aquafin-1K is one. We've specified it in grey water cisterns. Confirm your planned application with the manufacturer. The concrete surface may need treatment to ensure a good bond: scarification, or light sand blasting, may be needed.

I can't say that this will be "inexpensive." The world is littered with failed coating projects where people tried to save a few bucks.

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Permalink Reply by G Mo on December 17, 2012 at 12:41pm

Thanks! I contacted AquaticEcosystems and ordered an epoxy from them. Everyone had an opinion, but they are experts.

Phil Kabza said:

There are a number of cementitious waterproofing compounds for application to concrete that are also rated as safe for use with potable water (NSF/ANSI 61). Aquafin-1K is one. We've specified it in grey water cisterns. Confirm your planned application with the manufacturer. The concrete surface may need treatment to ensure a good bond: scarification, or light sand blasting, may be needed.

I can't say that this will be "inexpensive." The world is littered with failed coating projects where people tried to save a few bucks.

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Permalink Reply by Phil Kabza on December 17, 2012 at 12:50pm

Epoxies typically break down from exposure to UV in sunlight; hopefully they have taken that into consideration in their recommendation, or you do not have an exposed condition around the pool perimeter that will cause you future trouble.

G Mo said:

Thanks! I contacted AquaticEcosystems and ordered an epoxy from them. Everyone had an opinion, but they are experts.

Phil Kabza said:

There are a number of cementitious waterproofing compounds for application to concrete that are also rated as safe for use with potable water (NSF/ANSI 61). Aquafin-1K is one. We've specified it in grey water cisterns. Confirm your planned application with the manufacturer. The concrete surface may need treatment to ensure a good bond: scarification, or light sand blasting, may be needed.

I can't say that this will be "inexpensive." The world is littered with failed coating projects where people tried to save a few bucks.