Introduction

Mike Buckley’s experience with his 15+ year-old Jacuzzi® spa is a common tale of maintenance gone awry. In his effort to clean a scum line, Mike inadvertently exposed a white base layer beneath the spa’s original surface. This guide will explore how to restore the spa’s surface, bringing back its original color and texture, even after accidental damage.

Understanding the Damage

Mike’s situation often arises from using harsh scrubbing techniques or exposure to oxidizing chemicals like chlorine or bromine, especially when added improperly. Such chemicals can bleach the surface, making it appear as though the original color is lost. However, with the right approach, this color can be restored.

The Repair Process

• Step 1: Assessing the Damage

First, understand that the original spa color and material are still present beneath the bleached surface. This understanding is crucial as it guides the restoration process, ensuring that the repair efforts are directed correctly.

• Step 2: Sanding

The process begins with sanding, which is essential to remove the bleached layer and reveal the original color beneath. While the standard procedure might start at 320 grit, in cases of chemical bleaching, starting with a coarser 220 or even 100 grit wet/dry sandpaper is recommended. Progress through finer grits to smooth the surface gradually.

• Step 3: Polishing

Once the desired smoothness is achieved, the next step is polishing. This step restores the shine and gloss to the sanded area, blending it with the rest of the spa’s surface. It’s a critical step to ensure the repair blends seamlessly with the untouched areas.

• Step 4: Adding Texture (Optional)

If your spa’s original surface had a texture that was lost during the sanding process, you could mimic this texture by applying a clear coat with a stippling technique. Use a paintbrush and our recommended K2000 clear coat, applying it with a dabbing motion rather than strokes to create a stippled effect that resembles the original texture.

Conclusion

Repairing a faded or scratched spa surface, like Mike Buckley’s Jacuzzi®, is a manageable DIY project with the right guidance and materials. By following these steps, you can restore your spa’s surface to its former glory. For a visual and detailed guide, consider downloading (link to: Buffing_Polishing DVD.vob in Procedures section) our buffing and polishing video, which demonstrates the process step-by-step, ensuring you can achieve professional results at home.

Remember, the key to successful spa maintenance is not just in the repair but in preventing future damage through proper chemical handling and regular care.