Summary In this episode, the hosts welcome Jana Auringer, the new Director of Education at the NPC. They discuss her extensive journey in the pool industry, her passion for education, and the importance of integrating various educational programs. Jana shares her vision for expanding education, including plans to offer classes in Spanish and enhance the overall quality of training in the industry. Takeaways Jana Auringer is the new Director of Education at NPC. Her journey in the pool industry began as a receptionist. Education is crucial for the growth of the pool industry. There is a need for premium education without manufacturer bias. Jana aims to create a network of certified instructors. Plans are in place to offer classes in Spanish by 2026. The NPC is working to integrate educational standards across the industry. Jana emphasizes the importance of understanding water chemistry in pool startups. The response from the industry to Jana's new role has been overwhelmingly positive. Jana is excited about the potential for collaboration and growth in education. 

The conversation revolves around the launch and features of the NPC Pro app, designed specifically for pool surface professionals. The hosts discuss the app's free availability, its intuitive design, and various features that assist users in managing water chemistry, documenting processes, and accessing technical resources. They emphasize the app's user-friendly nature and its potential to enhance the efficiency of pool professionals. Future enhancements and the importance of community engagement are also highlighted.

Takeaways

The NPC Pro app is free and designed for industry professionals.

It offers a user-friendly interface for easy navigation.

The app includes features like water chemistry calculators and documentation tools.

Users can access technical resources and training materials through the app.

The app allows for photographic submissions and job logs.

It is built specifically for pool surface professionals by professionals.

Future updates will enhance features and add Spanish language support.

The app aims to streamline the startup process for pools.

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.

🔬 Key Takeaways:

• The white cement used in pool plastering is changing, and NPC is on the forefront of testing and understanding how those changes affect performance.
• More limestone = more water needed = potential impacts on strength, color, and application.
• NPC’s research is unbiased, lab-based, and supplier-inclusive—designed to help the whole industry adapt with confidence.
• NPC is planning expanded testing, including up to 35% limestone content and future field applications.

📌 Dedicated To: Joe Diedrich – an integral member of the research committee, respected technical mind, and a kind-hearted contributor to the plastering community. Joe’s commitment and insight continue to guide NPC’s work.

🛠️ Resources & Links:🔗 Learn more about NPC research: https://www.nationalplastererscouncil.com 📱 Download the NPC PRO App for tools and updates: → iOS: NPC Pro – Apple Store → Android: NPC Pro – Google Play 📸 Enter the #FlexYourFinish contest: Follow us on Instagram @thenpc_

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.

The conversation 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.

• 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:

1. Ambient Air Temperature: It’s not just hot air; it’s a potential project melter!
2. Substrate’s Thirst Level: How quickly does it gulp down that moisture?
3. Material Temperature: Is your plaster chill, or is it having a hot flash?
4. Humidity: The invisible pool party guest that can really dampen your spirits.
5. 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.