John, a professional spa surface repair contractor, inquires about simplifying spa blister repairs by injecting resin into the blisters as an alternative to the more detailed process recommended by Multi-Tech Products. While the suggestion aims to streamline repairs, it unfortunately falls short of providing the durable, warranty-backed outcomes that both contractors and manufacturers seek.

Understanding Spa Blisters

Spa blisters can be a vexing issue, manifesting as raised areas filled with fluid, primarily water, beneath the spa’s surface. These blemishes not only mar the spa’s aesthetic but can also hint at deeper structural issues, such as delamination or moisture penetration within the fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) backing. The root cause of these blisters often lies in the wetness within the FRP, a critical problem that simply injecting resin fails to address.

The “Poke and Roll-out” Method: A Temporary Fix

The method John mentions, known as the “poke and roll-out” procedure, involves puncturing the blister to drain the fluid and attempting to re-adhere the softened acrylic surface back into place. However, this approach is fraught with challenges:

• The fluid inside the blister interferes with the curing process of most resins, undermining the repair’s integrity.
• Heating and manipulating the blistered acrylic can cause cracking, splitting, or melting, posing safety risks and potentially exacerbating the issue.
• Delaminated FRP and calcium buildup behind the blister prevent the surface from laying flat, further complicating resin adhesion and curing.
• Most critically, this method does not tackle the underlying moisture issue, risking reformation of blisters and repair failure.

A Comprehensive Approach to Repair

For a repair to be both effective and enduring, it’s essential to remove the blister entirely, eliminate all fluid and thoroughly dry the affected area. This process involves:

1. Opening and Draining the Blister: Carefully removing the blistered material to expose and drain the fluid.
2. Force Drying the FRP: Utilizing high temperature to eradicate moisture deeply embedded in the FRP.
3. Sealing with Binding Resin: Applying a combination of binding resin and fiberglass mat to reseal and reinforce the area, followed by filler and color correction.

This meticulous procedure ensures that the repaired area is fortified against future moisture intrusion and structural weakening, aligning with the standards expected by manufacturers and customers alike.

Conclusion

While seeking efficiencies in repair processes is understandable, the integrity and longevity of spa repairs should not be compromised. John’s inquiry highlights a common desire for simplification in repair methodologies. However, the detailed approach advocated by Multi-Tech Products underscores the importance of addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of spa surface issues. For spa repair contractors, adhering to these comprehensive repair protocols means delivering repairs that stand the test of time, ensuring customer satisfaction and upholding the quality standards expected by the industry.