The National Plasterers Council presents “Smooth Finish”

In this episode, Brent Lane, Rob Romano, and returning guest Phil Greggs dive deep into the evolving world of white cement, with a special focus on the implications of increased limestone content. The trio breaks down what this shift means for pool plasterers and why the NPC's research on Portland Limestone Cement (PLC) is critical for the industry. What We Talked About: Honoring the legacy and contributions of Joe Diedrich from Federal White Cement. The push toward sustainability and reduced carbon emissions in the cement industry. What “One L Cement” is and why it's becoming the new standard. Surprising results from NPC's first round of cement testing. The science behind limestone additions and how they affect water demand and strength. The importance of conducting lab-controlled tests before field trials. What comes next in Phase 2 of NPC's cement research. Global supply chain influences and regulatory pressure shaping white cement production.

This episode revolves around the upcoming annual conference, highlighting its location in Orlando, the educational tracks offered, and the emphasis on community engagement and networking opportunities. The hosts discuss the importance of inclusivity, particularly with the introduction of Spanish tracks, and the innovative aspects of the conference that aim to enhance the attendee experience. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of showcasing the pool plaster industry through initiatives like 'Flex Your Finish', emphasizing the skill and artistry involved in their work. They highlight the significance of peer recognition and the upcoming auction, which supports the National Plaster Council's mission. The conversation also covers the vendor showcase, encouraging participation and collaboration within the industry, and concludes with a reminder for early bird registration for the upcoming conference.   Takeaways The annual conference is set for February 26th-28th in Orlando. The conference will feature a new Spanish track for inclusivity. Educational tracks are designed to be more robust and comprehensive this year. Networking and camaraderie are key components of the conference experience. The conference will include a golf outing and other entertainment options. The kickoff event is themed 'Let's Get Laid Tropical Nights'. The Flex Your Finish contest aims to spotlight member successes. The conference schedule is designed to allow for downtime and engagement. The hosts emphasize the importance of community and peer learning. The conference aims to provide valuable insights into industry innovations. Our industry needs to showcase what we do every day. Recognition from peers is invaluable. Skill in pool plastering is often underestimated. The process involves teamwork and collaboration. Sharing unique practices can inspire others in the industry. Using social media can enhance visibility for our work. The auction is a fun way to support the industry. Participation in the auction can lead to great deals. The vendor showcase is a key event for networking.

In this conversation, John McIntyre, an expert in aquatic consulting, discusses the critical issue of Alkalized Silica Reaction (ASR) in pools. He explains the science behind ASR, its impact on pool structures compared to other constructions, and the factors that contribute to its occurrence. The conversation also covers how to identify ASR, potential solutions for affected pools, and best practices for prevention. McIntyre emphasizes the importance of using proper materials and construction techniques to mitigate the risks associated with ASR, as well as the evolving landscape of insurance responses to ASR claims.   takeaways ASR is a reaction between the alkalize in the cement and reactive minerals in aggregates. The reaction can take up to three years to become symptomatic. Spiderweb cracking is a key indicator of ASR in pools. Wet shotcrete is more prone to ASR than dry shotcrete. Geographic factors influence the prevalence of ASR cases. Proper testing of materials is crucial to prevent ASR. Insurance companies are beginning to pay out for ASR-related claims. Good construction practices can mitigate ASR risks. Educating pool builders on ASR is essential for prevention. The pool industry is facing a buyer beware market regarding ASR.

Podcast Summary: Private Equity in the Pool Industry Guest: Kyle Chaikin, Chaikin Ultimate Pools   Episode Overview: In this episode of Smooth Finish, we delve into the significant investments being made by private equity firms in the pool industry. The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a surge in backyard reinvestment as Americans sought personal outdoor spaces. This episode examines how this trend has led to substantial changes within the industry, from regional distributors and manufacturers to builders and service companies. Key Topics Covered: 1.   Introduction to Private Equity in the Pool Industry:       •   Overview of the industry's growth during the pandemic.       •   Explanation of the increasing interest from private equity firms. 2.   Manufacturing Consolidation:       •   Discussion on notable acquisitions like Biogard and POOLCORP.       •   Impact of these consolidations on the industry. 3.   Distributor Consolidation:       •   Examination of POOLCORP's acquisitions of FWP, HERITAGE, and Home Depot.       •   Effects on distribution channels and market dynamics. 4.   Builders and Service Companies:       •   Highlighting major players like Premier, Pool Troopers, ASP, Riverbend Sandler, and others.       •   How these companies are adapting to the new landscape. 5.   Interview with Kyle Chaikin:       •   Insights from Kyle Chaikin, who recently went through an equity acquisition.       •   Exploration of whether his group was approached or if they sought out private equity.       •   Discussion on the pitch and the benefits of the acquisition.       •   How the new capital is driving growth that was previously unattainable individually or through group partnerships.       •   Anticipated changes and growth plans for Chaikin Ultimate Pools and other companies in the sector.       •   Future outlook on further acquisitions and expanding regional footprints. Conclusion - The episode wraps up with a discussion on the future of private equity in the pool industry and the potential for continued consolidation and growth. Stay tuned for more insights and updates in the next episodes. Don't forget to subscribe to Smooth Finish for more in-depth discussions and expert interviews on the latest trends and developments in the pool industry. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network!

Welcome back to the NPC Smooth Finish podcast, where we dive into the pool of knowledge and fish out the pearls of wisdom! Today, we're tackling Technical Bulletin #8, which isn't just a number—it's a lifeline for those braving the elements to create the perfect pool finish. Plastic Shrinkage: It's not your average shrinkage; it's the villain of plaster, lurking in the shadows of the first few hours' post-application. This dastardly phenomenon occurs when plaster loses water faster than a camel on a treadmill. To combat this, water must multitask like a circus juggler, balancing the Wick effect, curing chemistry, and the mood swings of ambient conditions. Now, let's talk about the Fab Five Factors that can turn your pool project into a dramatic reality show: Ambient Air Temperature: It's not just hot air; it's a potential project melter! Substrate's Thirst Level: How quickly does it gulp down that moisture? Material Temperature: Is your plaster chill, or is it having a hot flash? Humidity: The invisible pool party guest that can really dampen your spirits. Wind Speed: The ultimate diva, blowing away your hard work with a gusty attitude. Mix any of these factors, and you've got a recipe for a pool party disaster. But fear not, for every complication, we've got a comedic countermeasure: Decreased Set Time: It's a race against the clock, so move faster than a teenager asked to do chores! Increased Drying Rate: Plaster's drying out faster than jokes at a bad comedy show. Water Demand Spike: Your plaster is thirstier than a marathon runner in the desert. Cold Joints: Not the hip kind, but the kind that makes your pool finish frown. Discoloration: Like a bad tie-dye job, but on your pool. Our trusty nomographs are like the weather forecast for evaporation—just with less chance of getting it wrong. And remember, when it comes to Plastic Shrinkage, wind is the big bad wolf trying to blow your house down. So, how do we outsmart Mother Nature? Here's our weatherproof plan: SSD (Surface Saturation Dry): Keep it as dry as a comedian's wit. Control Hydration: Like a bartender for your plaster, mixing the perfect cocktail. Maintain Equipment: Treat it better than your car; it's what gets you to the finish line. Increase Labor: More hands make lighter work and better punchlines. Weather Timing: Be the early bird or the cool cat in the shade. Reflective Gear: Shine bright like a diamond, or at least like a well-placed tarp. Tent It Up: Because every good project deserves its own circus tent. Chill with Materials: Literally. Use chilled water and slow-setting cement. Admixes & Pozzolans: They're like the secret sauce to a gourmet meal. Water Reducers: Because sometimes less is more. And there you have it, folks! With these tips, you'll be the pool whisperer, taming the wild elements with a splash of humor. Until next time, keep your plaster happy and your pools smoother than a dolphin's dive! Remember, always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations and the nomographs for the best results. Happy plastering!   Tech Bulletin - Plastic Shrinkage Temperature vs. Wind | NPC (nationalplastererscouncil.com)

NPC Smooth Finish “fills” you in on Technical Bulletin #9 “Limestone Cement” Our host are joined by the NPC chair of the Research Committee and Technical Director of SGM, Inc. Mr. Phil Greggs to discuss what Portland Limestone is, why it is emerging in the building materials/cement industry and what the NPC is doing to research and advise the swimming pool industry     For the Full Tech Bulletin Visit:  Limestone Cement | NPC (nationalplastererscouncil.com) (npconline.org > then click latest news)

Join Smooth finish as the crew bends the knee to Royalty in the pool plaster community.  Laura Eaton already held the crown as the sole heiress to the reigning kingdom of plaster companies and now unifies the masses with her upcoming role as National Plasterers Council Chairwoman. 

Welcome to The Smooth Finish Cast, where we dive deep into the exciting world of the 2024 Tradeshow season! Join the gang redording live during the 35th Annual Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Start Up Technician Certification Classes available now! Stay tuned to The Smooth Finish Cast for exclusive insights, interviews, and all the excitement surrounding the 2024 Tradeshow season. We can't wait to see you at an industry venue near you!   Trade Association for Pool Plasterers | NPC (nationalplastererscouncil.com)

Welcome to The Smooth Finish Cast, where we dive deep into the exciting world of the 2024 Tradeshow season! Join us as we explore NESPA's "The Pool and Spa Show," the Southwest Pool and Spa Show, and our very own 35th annual NPC conference. We're your go-to source for what's happening, where to find us, and the must-not-miss events in the pool and spa industry.   NESPA's "The Pool and Spa Show" (January 22-24) - Atlantic City Convention Center Get ready for an unforgettable experience as we navigate through the show led by the industry legend himself, Mr. Rob Romano. With a heavy NPC contingent, this celebration of leadership and industry alliance is not to be missed. Join us on the 22nd for a startup certification course and swing by our booth #2548 to discover the latest innovations. With a massive array of classes, a huge show floor, and an incredible vibe, NESPA's show promises excitement at every turn.   Southwest Pool and Spa Show (February 14-17) - Henry B Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio Love is in the air as Mrs. Jana Auringer kicks off Valentine's Day with a startup certification course you won't want to miss. Visit our booth #627 to explore the NPC's role in the industry and dive into a growing show with 85 topics, 112 exhibits, and 10 certifications. Hear Chris share feedback and highlights of our first-time experience as exhibitors. Plus, discover the charm of San Antonio, from the Riverwalk to delicious eats, surrounded by fellow industry enthusiasts.   NPC 35th Annual Conference (February 21-23) - The Worthington Renaissance, Ft. Worth TX Join us in the heart of Texas for the NPC's 35th annual conference! With three teaching tracks offering 18 educational options, roundtable discussions, and captivating outings like golf, wine tastings, or bikes and BBQ, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the live opening reception podcast featuring three amazing hosts, an industry auction, and the symbolic passing of the gavel. We'll reflect on Robbie's legacy and the contributions of Mr. Shaun Goldberg. Get ready for unparalleled networking opportunities and secure your Early Bird spot by January 19th.   Stay tuned to The Smooth Finish Cast for exclusive insights, interviews, and all the excitement surrounding the 2024 Tradeshow season. We can't wait to see you at an industry venue near you!

Join Smooth finish as they share the recent resources and opportunities being provided to members and the industry. Explore the article rich membership directory, Investment in our future with the Rey Perales Scholarship and Register to join the group at the NPC's 35th annual conference in Ft. Worth TX this coming February 21st -23rd

Smooth Finish crew chat with Joey Chavez, “Interior Surfaces Specialist for POOLCORP, about his usage of NPC provided resources in his daily task of “Guy who sees crappy pools”. Joey will be sharing a master class on how to best present and reference the resources in the field at our upcoming 35th annual conference February 21st-23rd 2023 in Ft. Worth TX.

NPC Smooth Finish- “Testing the Water”   The Smooth finish crew talk with Wayne J. Ivusich an industry veteran and impactful and published educator that continues to contribute and oversee that proper chemistry and methods are gospel in the reference materials to the trade. Wayne is active as CPO, PHTA CPO instructor and sits on several committees, an admin to several social media groups and contributes to the Talking Pools Podcast as host to Testing Thursdays with Wayne.

Smooth Finish and Company discuss the use of Cyanuric Acid in the swimming pool industry. Also known as CYA, and yes “Cover your Ass” is somewhat relatable to this conversation. Although a useful/necessary tool in the treatment of water there are some side affects and adjustments to be considered with it's use and how in particular it can create issues for Cementous Pool Plaster finishes.

The Smooth Finish crew mix it up about what some consider the most important position on the Plaster Crew. The Mud man, mixer man, hottie, what ever you may call the person mixing your plaster for the project. Why and what is so important about this job in regards to the finished product.

This week a new episode, recorded live at the NPC 34th Annual Conference in San Diego, is available. If you have never attended an NPC conference, you will want to hear what our hosts learned from conference attendees about what they get out of the Annual Conference, the excellent networking and educational opportunities, the camaraderie displayed at the conference and more.

The NPC 34th annual conference is being held in the “do not miss” location of the Loews Coronado Bay resort. The conference as always will have second to none industry specific education highlighted by the first ever NPC Start up Certification in Spanish. Networking as always will be available in conference, at the Opening, new member and young professionals' receptions and at any of the 3 tour options being offered. Catch a deal in our annual auction and chat with pool plaster specific vendors during the exhibitor reception. Come to learn, come to bond, come to play…The NPC looks forward to seeing you in Sunny San Diego.

Love when I get the chance to do a new Episode of Smooth Finish with New Depths Podcast with our friends at NESPA! Here all about all the great things coming up at both of our annual shows!

The team talks about what the NPC considers a quintessential part of the startup process with the use of a sequestering agent. Listen in as we explore the chemistry, function and benefit of this practice. Further learn when and why to use these products as a part of your normal maintenance regiment.  Nadia Beane is Chief Operating Officer of Jack's Magic Products, Inc., a specialty swimming pool chemical manufacturer based in Largo, Florida. In addition to Jack's Magic, Nadia serves on the National Plasterers Council Board of Directors. She values the importance of education and teaches Jack's Magic classes and is involved in technical writing. Nadia has a degree in recreation and event management from the University of Florida. During her time at University of Florida, Nadia received multiple swimming pool industry scholarships, and hopes to 'pay it forward' by supporting and contributing to scholarships to help educate others in the industry and in her local community. She was featured in PoolPro magazine's "30 under 40" article in November of 2019. She is committed to her company's brand, products, programs, and customers through training, education, and support.

Smooth finish covers the often-escalated “hot” topics of “Smoothness, Levelness, Thickness and Mottling” in an attempt to marry the misunderstood expectations from the consumer level and the industry standards prescribed and adopted due to materials and application limitations.Shaun Goldberg has been in the pool plastering industry for over 35 years. He's been a mixer man, finisher, crew foreman, and operations manager. Since starting in 1985, Shaun has finished or overseen over 50,000 residential and commercial pool projects. Shaun has served on the Research, Technical, and Educational Committees for the National Plasterers Council as well as being a current Board member and vice chair.

Listen in as Smooth Finish highlights the technical bulletin #7 “Is my Pool Supposed to be “Waterproof” or “Watertight”.  These are two entirely different standards within the building industry.  What is required and what is important to understand for each standard.  Let us know how we are doing and share other topics you would like to explore. 

The Smooth Finish cast talk with industry and NPC veteran Andrea Campbell, National Sales Manager for Mesa Industries, about the newly released Technical Bulletin # 4, “The Most Common Reasons for Loss of Color”.  Listen in to hear the cause and affects associate with Swimming Pool Plaster color loss and the well published preventative solutions the NPC provides to the industry and consumers alike to avoid these common issues.  Visit npconline.org to get your copy of Technical bulletin # 4 and all of the other helpful resources mention in the show.

The crew from Smooth Finish chat with conference attendees at the opening reception at the 33rd annual conference.  

Welcome to Atlanta, GA where we will all convene for the 33rd Annual Conference of the NPC, and our first live face-to-face conference in TWO years!  It's hard to believe it's been that long. Two years since we partied at the Opening Reception. Two years since we sat back at lunch and bid on items at the auction. Two years since we've seen colleagues and friends from across the country.  In other words, it's been too long! So, like so many of you I am really looking forward to this event! Our Education Committee has been hard at work putting together a great slate of education. Special format this year for the Thursday classes is only one track with 3 classes for the whole day – The Remodel Primer.  This track will prepare you to tackle remodel projects, both large and small and will begin with an overview of concrete pool construction and focus on the topics that have the biggest impact on the integrity of the shell.  On Friday we will offer our standard format of three tracks with a total of 12 classes. We all certainly come to conference to learn, but that's not all.  The networking events will be in full swing as well as an aquarium tour, with a behind the scenes tour of the Georgia Aquarium, the world's largest. The Exhibit Hall will be filled with the suppliers we all depend on to meet our customer's expectations.  Our World-Famous Auctioneer, Jay Eaton, will certainly have a few surprises from us and a lot of products to sell! Our venue for this event, the InterContinental Buckhead in Atlanta, is beautiful and perfectly located for tours, restaurants, and night life. This gorgeous facility is the perfect setting for us to come together again after a long and hard separation. So, thank you for attending and have a great time! 

Smooth finish speaks with Chas Bogardus and Dom Mondi of NESPA to discuss the various practices of winterization of swimming pools, share experience with some traditional methods, drill down on the winter effects task force and hear a new theory practiced for winter pool maintenance and early results. Smooth Finish Participants- Brent Lane, Chris Marcano and Rob Romano NESPA Participants- Chas Bogardus and Dom Mondi

NPC's Smooth Finish and NESPA's New Depths collaborate for a joint podcast to discuss how the two Organizations have worked together throughout the last several years, their joint taskforce concerning winter effects and each share about their upcoming tradeshows in early 2021.   Participants from Smooth Finish- Brent Lane, Chris Marcano, Rob Romano Participants from New Depths- Dom Mondi and Chas Bogardus

Why are swimming pools in such demand and why are lead times so long – in some cases two years? The Smooth Finish hosts speak with Mark Warsaw, CEO of Bel Aqua Pool Supply Inc., an independent distributor serving the Northeastern U.S. for some answers. From the catalyst of the COVID pandemic to skilled labor shortages to materials supply, Mark shares his perspective on purchasing, inventory customer service impacts and what the market may have in store for the future.

Special Edition Podcast for Pool Owners: The NPC has launched an awareness campaign to help build the public's knowledge about the proper initial start-up of cementitious interior pool and spa finishes and the importance of proper maintenance thereafter in relation to the aesthetic, functionality and lifespan of their plaster pool surface

The NPC has launched an awareness campaign to help build the public's knowledge about the proper initial start-up of cementitious interior pool and spa finishes and the importance of proper maintenance thereafter in relation to the aesthetic, functionality and lifespan of their plaster pool surface. Also, NPC is currently in production on our online education version of the start-up class as a foundation for several pool industry certification and apprenticeship programs and required curriculum. 

The ultimate goal of pool surface preparation is a uniform, clean, porous surface profile.  Donnie Gammon of Gammon Pools, David Cooke of David Cooke Pool Plastering , and Ryan Schilli of Schilli Pool Plastering join hosts Brent Lane, Chris Marcano and Rob Romano to discuss three recognized tried and proven methods for pool surface finishing.

Listen in with the Smooth finish crew talks with Jeff Henderson, Director of NPC and Laura Eaton- administrative assistance at Cal Plastering and legacy member of the NPC auction family extraordinaire, about the 2021 virtual conference.  Learn how the NPC is working hard to capture the essences of the live event and bring to you on the virtual platform.  We hope you will join to hear more about the conference and better yet join us at the conference.

In November, NPC announced a new addition to the NPC staff. Listen in as the Smooth Finish cast talks with Kent Westfall the new Director of Technical services and learn about his many ventures in the pool industry and the qualifications he gained along the way. Kent Westfall, of Kent Westfall Pool Inspections, Bermuda Dunes, California, has 44 years of experience in the pool industry, developing his extensive career spanning 36 years of mastering every aspect of pool construction, pool plastering and remodeling. He has been licensed with the Contractors State License Board during that 36-year time.

NPC Smooth Finish Education series- Focus on Education Content built on Tech manual foundation and industry outreach. Episode 1- Introduction of the inspiration, people, efforts and resulting content happening at the NPC The inspiration- Inspired by a man synonymous with and an Education legacy of the NPC- Mr. NPC Greg Garrett 1) Paved the way 2) Tireless advocate and educator on the idiosyncrasies of the plaster and the pool environment 3) Director of technical services Jana Auringer, A 30+ year veteran of the swimming pool industry, Jana has owned a swimming pool plaster company, a pool service company and a consulting service in which she has learned a vast knowledge of swimming pool plaster science and problems. She is currently Quality Control Technician at Pebble Technology International. She has promoted the industry through her affiliations with the National Plasters Council on the Board of Directors and several active committees, as well as the National Pool Industry Research Center, PHTA (in several capacities) and IPSSA. A native Texan, she travels to many areas of the USA to troubleshoot plaster issues and promote education in the swimming pool industry.

Filling the growing trade jobs void…Recruiting and retaining talent in the Swimming Pool Trade.  The panel discusses the swimming pool industry and some individual efforts to recruit the next wave of professionals to our trade.  Guest info- Jeremy Hausbrouk- Owner of Hasbrouck Pool and Spa Inc. in the Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania and active member of the Penn/Jersey chapter of NESPA.  Sharing his experience and efforts to promote the industry from primary school and up. Mary Anderson- Education Program Manager for Florida Swimming Pool Association.  Mary describes the FSPA's efforts of an apprentice program they are partnering with their members to achieve a steady stream of professionals into the pool industry. 

How Covid 19 redefined the “Staycation”.  “Staycation” dare I say the used car salesmen term in the industry turned into the personified need for isolated activity for families in their own backyardPanelist Jeff Smith –Sales and Marketing director of Alan Smith Pool Plastering NPC member and PSN top 50 builder Sarah Bess- Marketing director of Lyon Financial Underwriter specializing in the financing of swimming pools across the US  

We explore the industries challenges and resources from the early stages in regards to “being essential”, tools provided from PTHA, NESPA and the NPC, operating in the new normal and utilizing the rapid education of this event in case of a future one. Rudy Stankowitz, is an award winning NSPF® instructor with more than 30 years of swimming pool industry experience. He has conducted swimming pool related training/technical seminars throughout the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, The Caribbean, South America, Europe, and Asia. Rudy is also a regular columnist for both Pool & Spa News, AQUA, and Swimming World Magazine.  Rudy has been involved nationwide in the fight for the pool industry and helping define essential status.  Dominik Mondi is the executive director if the Northeast Spa and Pool Association.  He has been instrumental in creating essential status in one of the most regulated regions of the United States during COVID 19 and shares with us in the episode. NPConline.org / nationalplastercouncil.org / www.nespapool.org / www.pooloperatorcourse.com / http://www.nespapool.org/Advocacy/coronavirus  / https://www.npconline.org/page/covid-19-resources / www.phtacoronaupdate.com https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.npconline.org/resource/resmgr/covid-19/infectious-disease-plan.pdf  / /  https://www.phtacoronaupdate.com/PHTACORONAUPDATE/assets/File/4891%20PHTA%20COVID%20Complete%20Guide%20444-V12.pdf /