Dealing with black algae (Part 1 of 2)

[CarlD]

SmallPoolDad:

Wonderful exposition! I learned a lot--and clearly your "Black Algae" is not the same species we see in the North Eastern states.

I learned:
1) Don't buy an old pool!
2) If you do, have wire brushes.
3) Don't keep a pool in Hawaii unless you want a lot of work--and if you do, make it vinyl!
4) Hawaiians are just like everyone else--they breed their share of bigots just like the rest of us.

[smallpooldad]

Carl D,

Firstly thank you.

In response by item:

1) True, but as they get older at $8,500 in Honolulu a resurface it is hard for retirees on a fixed income. If one does get it done in Honolulu hire a good concrete engineer ensuring he is on-site to make sure the prep-work is carried out properly, the Portland cement's slump is correct (not too much water), good synthetic additives are used including artificial fibers to strengthen the mix, and then cured properly. No marble chips here.

2) Yes wire brushes are second only to chop sticks. They are even more important than having a cute little Thai or Korean girlfriend for us PoolForum aficionados; well maybe!

3) True, I think that vinyl replacements if purchased locally will cost nearly as much. But buying them from the mainland now that's an idea worth reviewing.

4) Yup, but having lived all over the mainland I think that this is better here. It is good to be in the minority it gives one a better understanding of others plight. And where in the world can you find 300+ lb guys (and girls) with muscles the size of SUV tires, tattoos all over, opening doors for you and saying "No you go first, you only got a few items" That's why I love it here. It isn’t just the cute Thai and Korean girls that make it a pleasure to live here. I swear on my black algae.

Aloha