How to Mix Perlite & Portland for Pools

Perlite and Portland cement work well as a pool base.

Perlite is a white, granular substance that acts as a filling and insulating substance in construction projects. Perlite can be used as a loose-fill material, and it can also be mixed into concrete and other masonry substances. You can use a mixture of perlite and Portland cement to create a flexible, insulated concrete material ideal for filling and patching swimming pools and ponds. The mixing directions are straightforward and very easy to complete.

Things You'll Need

• Perlite
• Portland cement
• Wheelbarrow or other mixing container
• Stirring stick
• Trowel
• Safety goggles
• Dust mask

Instructions

1. Determine how much cement mixture you will need to complete the work you want to do in the pool. If you plan to cover all of the pool walls and floor, then you will need much more than if you are repairing a small area of the pool. Each bag of Portland cement is usually enough to cover a 3 to 4 square foot area.

2. Mix two parts Portland cement, one part perlite and two parts water in a wheelbarrow or other large container. Only mix as much as you can work with in about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes the mixture starts to harden and it is much more difficult to work with. You also end up wasting a lot more cement after it starts to harden.

3. Stir the mixture together for three to five minutes. The consistency should reach that of thin mud, but the mixture should not be runny. The mixture should be able to hold its shape when formed with a trowel.

4. Place the cement mixture where you want it inside the pool. Use the trowel to smooth out the cement and shape it into the desired form. The perlite and Portland cement mixture makes an excellent patch material.

Tips & Warnings

• If dust particles in the air bother you, wear a dust mask when working with the cement and perlite dry mixes. Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from dust particles as well.

References

• Nor Cal Perlite: Perlite Uses
• Perlite: Mixing Perlite