The National Plasterers Council presents "Smooth Finish"

Resumen

En este episodio de Smooth Finish en Español, el equipo de NPC habla sobre dos recursos importantes para los profesionales de la industria: los White Papers #6 y #7, enfocados en el llenado y arranque de una piscina recién terminada y en la importancia de evitar agua blanda o con baja dureza de calcio.

Alex Valdovinos, Lupe Mariscal, Natalia Guzmán y Jorge Olivares comparten experiencias prácticas sobre cómo analizar el agua de llenado, por qué una baja dureza de calcio puede afectar un acabado cementicio y qué pasos se deben seguir durante el llenado y arranque para proteger el acabado. También hablan sobre el plaster dust, la importancia del cepillado, el balance químico del agua y los problemas que pueden surgir cuando se interrumpe el llenado de una piscina nueva.

La conversación destaca además la importancia de documentar el proceso, establecer claramente las responsabilidades del contratista y del dueño de casa, y utilizar los recursos técnicos y educativos de NPC para prevenir problemas antes de que ocurran.

Puntos Clave

1. Analiza siempre el agua de llenado antes de comenzar un trabajo.
2. El agua con baja dureza de calcio puede buscar calcio en el propio acabado de la piscina y causar daños.
3. No asumas que conoces la química del agua solamente porque has trabajado anteriormente en la misma zona.
4. El agua de pozo, agua filtrada, agua transportada en camión y otras fuentes deben analizarse antes de utilizarlas.
5. Una piscina recién terminada debe llenarse continuamente, sin detener el flujo de agua antes de alcanzar el nivel adecuado.
6. La manguera debe colocarse correctamente para evitar marcas o daños en el acabado nuevo.
7. El cepillado durante el arranque ayuda a eliminar el plaster dust antes de que se adhiera al acabado.
8. Seguir los procedimientos de arranque recomendados por NPC puede prevenir muchos problemas con el acabado.
9. Documentar las instrucciones, las condiciones del agua y las responsabilidades ayuda a proteger al profesional y al cliente.
10. La aplicación NPC Pro ofrece recursos técnicos, herramientas y materiales en español para profesionales de piscinas y spas.

Summary

In this episode of The Smooth Finish, hosts Chris, Rob, and Brent are joined by Dominic Mondi and Jeff McGalliard for a discussion about reopening winterized swimming pools and the challenges that cold weather can create for pool finishes.

Using NPC White Paper #8, Considerations for Owners When Reopening a Winterized Pool, as a guide, the group walks through the steps involved in bringing a pool back into service, including removing the cover, inspecting the interior finish, cleaning and starting the filtration system, brushing and vacuuming, testing the water, and restoring proper water balance. A major focus is the importance of clearly defining responsibilities among homeowners, builders, plasterers, and service professionals—and making sure those parties communicate throughout the process.

The conversation also explores what can happen to cementitious pool finishes during severe winter conditions. The group discusses freeze-related damage to sun shelves, steps, benches, and other shallow areas, why trapped moisture can damage a finish when it freezes and expands, and how pool design and winterization practices can affect the risk.

Takeaways

Clear communication is essential when reopening a winterized pool.

Homeowners and pool professionals should establish who is responsible for each step of the reopening process.

Pool covers should be carefully cleaned and removed to avoid introducing accumulated debris into the pool.

The interior finish should be visually inspected before the pool is returned to normal operation.

Filters, pumps, brushing, vacuuming, and water balancing should be addressed as part of a coordinated reopening process.

Water chemistry can change significantly while a pool is closed and should be tested and properly rebalanced.

Winter staining and other finish issues may occur even when a pool was properly closed.

Freeze-thaw conditions can damage cementitious pool finishes when moisture trapped within the finish freezes and expands.

Shallow features such as sun shelves, steps, and benches can be particularly vulnerable during extended periods of severe cold.

Documentation, photographs, checklists, and clear handoffs can help pool professionals establish effective standard operating procedures and set appropriate homeowner expectations.

NPC technical resources give industry professionals and consumers independent information they can use to better understand pool finishes, maintenance, and potential problems.

https://www.nationalplastererscouncil.com/technical-resources/

escucha al comité de Educación en español del NPC mientras navega la recepción de bienvenida. Les preguntamos que más les entusiasma y qué beneficios aporta la conferencia a su negocio?

Episode 40 – Smooth Finish // Conference Preview

In this milestone 40th episode of Smooth Finish, the crew gives you a full insider's look at the 37th Annual National Plasterers Council Conference, happening February 18–20, 2025 at the Westin Anaheim Resort. From committee work and education to golf outings, brewery tours, Disney, Spanish-language classes, and the growing Women of the NPC movement—this is your walkthrough of what to expect (and why you really shouldn't miss it).

If you've ever thought, "Should I go to NPC Conference?" or "Is it worth joining a committee?" this episode lays it all out.

What We Talk About in This Episode

• Conference Overview – Westin Anaheim Resort

• Dates: February 18–20, 2025

• Why the timing is perfect as a "springboard" for the upcoming season

• How this conference has stayed strong and relevant for 37 years

• Committee Meetings & Getting Involved

• Pre-conference committee meetings on February 16

• Why showing up early is the best way to plug into the NPC's work

• How committees help you give back and grow your business and network

• St. Louis Recap – Pre-Conference Committee Weekend

• Behind-the-scenes tour of Busch Stadium

• Trying on championship rings and swinging Stan Musial's bat

• Suite night at the St. Louis Blues game

• How weekends like this show the blend of serious work + real community

• Education & Classes You Can't Miss

• Strong technical education focused on plaster, not product pitches

• NPC Start-Up Certification – plus the growing curriculum

• NPC Pro App Start-Up Class – how the app documents every step, protects your company, and educates homeowners

• Spanish-Language Education Expansion

• Debut of Spanish-language Start-Up Certification

• Six additional Spanish-language classes led by fluent Spanish-speaking instructors

• Why this is a major, intentional commitment to the Spanish-speaking side of the industry

• Women of the NPC

• Dedicated Women of the NPC event at conference (now a full-hour program)

• Laura sharing her story as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry

• How women are stepping into leadership, including Laura as incoming Chair in 2026

• Why this initiative matters for the future of the trade

• Networking, Golf & Brewery Options

• Casual NPC golf outing – fun, not intimidating

• Alternate brewery tasting & lunch option for the non-golf crowd

• How both events are designed for relaxed, real networking

• Receptions, Exhibits & Auction

• Opening reception sponsored by NPT / National Pool Trends with a Latino/Spanish-themed party and mariachi band

• Exhibitor reception: focused, high-quality time with manufacturers and suppliers

• Silent auction highlights, including multiple trips and stays donated by members (Lake of the Ozarks, Branson, and more)

• NPC Pro App in the Real World

• Laura's story of showing the app to a homeowner in real time

• How the app closes the loop on documentation and communication

• Why every company doing start-ups should be using it

• Flex Your Finish: Win Your Way to Conference

• How the #FlexYourFinish social media contest works

• Monthly winners receive a free conference registration

• At least a dozen members coming to Anaheim because they participated

• Free exposure for your company + chance at a free registration = huge win

Key Takeaways

• The NPC Conference isn't just "another show" — it's the technical and networking hub for plaster-specific education.

• There's a clear on-ramp for deeper involvement: join a committee, attend the meetings, and be part of shaping standards, research, and education.

• The Spanish-language education expansion and Women of the NPC are major steps forward, reflecting where the industry is today and where it's going.

• Between Anaheim, Disney across the street, golf, brewery tours, and great receptions, this conference delivers serious value and serious fun.

Links & Resources

• NPC 37th Annual Conference Info & Registration Visit: nationalplastererscouncil.com

• NPC Pro App – Start-Up & Water Chemistry Tool Search "NPC Pro" in the Apple App Store and Google Play

• Flex Your Finish Contest

• Post your best work

• Use #FlexYourFinish

• Tag The NPC for a chance to win a free conference registration

• National Plasterers Council - nationalplastererscouncil.com/annual-conference

Takeaways

It's about having fun, not competition.

The event is very casual and welcoming.

Participants can enjoy breakfast and drinks.

No pressure for golf skills; everyone is included.

Meeting new people is a key aspect of the outing.

The event starts with a relaxed schedule.

The camaraderie among participants is important.

The focus is on enjoyment rather than performance.

It's a community event that fosters connections.

The atmosphere is light-hearted and enjoyable.

Episodio 39 – Smooth Finish (Primer Episodio 100% en Español) Título: NPC en Español: Qué es el NPC y por qué importa + Avance de la Conferencia Anaheim 2026 Conductores: Alex Valdovinos, Lupe Mariscal y Natalia Guzmán Presentado por: National Plasterers Council (NPC)

Por primera vez en la historia de Smooth Finish, tenemos un episodio completamente en español. En este programa, Alex Valdovinos, Lupe Mariscal y Natalia Guzmán presentan qué es el National Plasterers Council (NPC) y por qué esta organización es tan importante para aplicadores, constructores, técnicos de servicio y proveedores de la industria de albercas.

El equipo repasa la historia del NPC, cómo se convirtió en la autoridad técnica en recubrimientos de albercas, y cómo su investigación y educación —ahora también en español— ayudan a los contratistas a proteger su trabajo, sus empresas y a sus clientes.

También dan un adelanto de la Conferencia Anual del NPC en Anaheim, California – 18 al 20 de febrero de 2026 en el Westin Anaheim Resort, incluyendo las nuevas clases en español, los eventos sociales y cómo sacarle el máximo provecho a la semana.

En Este Episodio Escucharás:

• Quién es el NPC y por qué existe
• Cómo un grupo de profesionales se organizó a principios de los 90 para estudiar problemas de recubrimiento que nadie más estaba investigando.
• El estudio con la universidad de Cal Poly, donde construyeron 12 albercas para analizar cómo la química del agua afecta al recubrimiento.
• NPC como autoridad técnica de la industria
• Por qué el NPC es la voz de referencia cuando hay disputas, problemas de garantía o fallas de recubrimiento.
• Cómo los boletines técnicos, manuales, la carta de divulgación de recubrimiento interior, tarjetas de puesta en marcha y otros documentos ayudan a proteger tanto al contratista como al dueño de la alberca.
• Educación en español
• La creación del Comité de Educación en Español y lo que significa para los profesionales hispanohablantes.
• La importancia de tener clases, documentos y recursos en español para trabajar con mayor seguridad, consistencia y calidad.
• NPC como comunidad, no solo una conferencia
• Cómo las conferencias del NPC se sienten como una gran familia: dueños de empresa, aplicadores, constructores, distribuidores y proveedores compartiendo experiencias reales.
• El valor de poder llamar a otro miembro y decir: "Estoy viendo este problema, ¿a ti te ha pasado?" y recibir una respuesta útil.
• Avance de la Conferencia en Anaheim 2026 (18–20 de febrero de 2026 – Westin Anaheim Resort)
• Resumen de la semana:
• Clases de Genesis (construcción y remodelación de albercas y spas).
• Curso de Certificación de Puesta en Marcha del NPC (curso extenso, con examen y certificación).
• Una clase gratuita de introducción a la puesta en marcha en español.
• Sesiones técnicas en español jueves y viernes.
• Temas clave en español:
• Reacciones del cemento y cómo han cambiado los materiales con el tiempo.
• Preparación adecuada del sustrato antes de aplicar un nuevo recubrimiento.
• Introducción a la puesta en marcha correcta y por qué es tan crítica.
• Problemas y soluciones más comunes en acabados: sarro, agua agresiva, cambios de color, etc.
• Entender los tintes y colores en recubrimientos de mortero y agregados.
• Un panel abierto de contratistas con cinco contratistas (incluyendo a Lupe) compartiendo casos reales y lecciones de negocio.
• Eventos, convivencia y networking
• Torneo de golf con contratistas y proveedores.
• Cata de cerveza en una cervecería local en Anaheim.
• Reunión de mujeres de la industria y encuentro para nuevos miembros, para ayudar a integrarse más rápido a la comunidad.
• El Vendor Showcase – una mini expo con proveedores de color, químicos, cemento, mosaico y herramientas, además de rifas, cocteles y la última oportunidad de hacer contactos.
• La subasta silenciosa que recauda fondos para apoyar la investigación, normas y programas educativos del NPC.
• Por qué "se paga solo" asistir
• La inscripción incluye desayuno, comida y bebidas (no alcohólicas) durante los días de conferencia.
• Cómo una idea, un contacto o un documento del NPC puede salvar un trabajo, ganar un cliente o evitar una reclamación costosa.
• Un mensaje para los profesionales hispanohablantes
• Una invitación a "subir de nivel" juntos como comunidad latina dentro de la industria de albercas.
• Por qué ser honestos, compartir errores y aprender en conjunto es la forma más rápida de crecer.
• Un adelanto del siguiente episodio en español, donde analizarán los Documentos Técnicos 6 y 7 del NPC.

Llamado a la Acción

• Hazte miembro del NPC y aprovecha los manuales, boletines técnicos, formularios y cursos que protegen tu trabajo.
• Regístrate para la Conferencia Anual del NPC 2026 en Anaheim y aparta tu lugar en las clases en español.
• Comparte este episodio con tu cuadrilla, tu equipo de oficina y tus colegas hispanohablantes.
• Estate pendiente del Episodio 40 en español, donde Alex, Lupe y Natalia profundizarán en los Documentos Técnicos 6 y 7 del NPC.

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English Show Notes

Episode 39 – Smooth Finish (First-Ever Spanish Episode) Title: NPC en Español: What NPC Is & Why It Matters + Anaheim 2026 Conference Preview Hosts: Alex Valdovinos, Lupe Mariscal & Natalia Guzman Presented by: National Plasterers Council (NPC)

For the first time ever, Smooth Finish goes all-Spanish. In this landmark episode, hosts Alex Valdovinos, Lupe Mariscal, and Natalia Guzman introduce NPC to the Spanish-speaking side of the pool industry and break down why this organization matters so much to plasterers, builders, service pros, and suppliers.

They walk through NPC's history, how it became the technical authority for plastered pool surfaces, and how its research and education (now also in Spanish) help contractors protect their work, their companies, and their customers.

The crew also previews the upcoming NPC Annual Conference in Anaheim, California – February 18–20, 2026 at The Westin Anaheim Resort, including all the new Spanish-language education, networking events, and how to get the most out of your time there.

In This Episode You'll Hear About:

• Who NPC is and why it exists
• How a group of industry professionals came together in the early 1990s to tackle plaster problems nobody else was studying.
• The Cal Poly study with 12 purpose-built pools to understand how water chemistry affects plaster.
• NPC as the technical authority
• Why NPC is the go-to voice when there are disputes, warranty questions, or surface failures.
• How technical bulletins, manuals, the Interior Pool Finish Disclosure Form, startup cards, and other documents help protect both contractors and clients.
• Education in Spanish
• The creation of the Spanish Education Committee and what it means for Spanish-speaking professionals.
• Why having classes, documents, and resources in Spanish builds confidence, consistency, and better workmanship.
• NPC as a community, not just a conference
• How NPC events feel like a big family: owners, applicators, builders, distributors, and vendors sharing real-world experiences.
• The value of calling another member and saying, "I've seen this problem—have you?" and actually getting a useful answer.
• Anaheim 2026 Conference Preview (Feb 18–20, 2026 – Westin Anaheim Resort)
• Overview of the week:
• Genesis classes (pool & spa construction/remodeling) early in the week.
• NPC Startup Certification class (in-depth, with exam and certification).
• A free Spanish startup introduction class.
• Spanish-language technical sessions running Thursday and Friday.
• Key Spanish-language topics:
• Cement reactions and how materials have changed over the years.
• Proper substrate preparation before a new finish goes in.
• Introductions to proper startup and why it matters.
• Problems and solutions for common finish issues: scale, aggressive water, discoloration, etc.
• Understanding tints and colors for plaster and pebble finishes.
• An open contractor panel with five contractors (including Lupe) sharing real cases and business lessons.
• Events, networking & fun
• Golf outing with contractors and vendors.
• Beer tasting at a local brewery in Anaheim.
• Women's event and a new-member meetup to help people plug into the community faster.
• The Vendor Showcase – a mini-expo with color suppliers, chemicals, cement, tile, and tools… plus raffles, cocktails, and one last chance to connect.
• The silent auction that raises funds to support NPC research, standards, and education.
• Why it "pays for itself" to attend
• Registration includes breakfast, lunch, and drinks (non-alcoholic) during conference days.
• How one idea, one connection, or one document from NPC can save a job, win a customer, or prevent a costly callback.
• A message to Spanish-speaking pool pros
• An invitation to "level up" together as a Latino community in the pool industry.
• Why being honest, sharing mistakes, and learning together is the fastest way to grow.
• Teaser for the next Spanish episode, where they'll walk through Technical Documents 6 and 7 from NPC.

Call to Action

• Join NPC and tap into the manuals, technical bulletins, forms, and education that protect your work.
• Register for the 2026 NPC Annual Conference in Anaheim and sign up for the Spanish-language courses.
• Share this episode with your Spanish-speaking crews, office staff, and industry partners.
• Stay tuned for Episode 40 in Spanish, where Alex, Lupe, and Natalia dive deep into NPC Technical Documents 6 & 7.

Summary

In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of pool maintenance, focusing on the importance of water quality, particularly calcium hardness, and best practices for filling and starting up pools. They emphasize the need for proper testing and the use of technology to aid in maintenance. Additionally, they touch on community engagement and the importance of educating both industry professionals and consumers about these practices.

Takeaways

Testing your fill water is crucial for pool maintenance.

Calcium hardness is essential for maintaining pool integrity.

Soft water can cause significant damage to pool finishes.

Best practices for filling a pool include keeping the water flowing continuously.

Utilizing technology, like the NPC app, can enhance maintenance processes.

Community engagement is vital for industry growth and education.

Understanding youth slang can help in connecting with younger audiences.

Technical papers provide valuable insights for both professionals and consumers.

Proper startup procedures can prevent long-term issues with pool finishes.

Encouraging new members to join committees can foster industry development.

https://www.nationalplastererscouncil.com/technical-resources/

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.