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47209dc2 Asbestos in MarbleSheen Pools: Identify and Understand the Risks 58113926 Asbestos in MarbleSheen Pools: Identify and Understand the Risks
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Discover the Surprising Presence of Asbestos in Swimming Pools: Learn About MarbleSheen and Its Asbestos Risks here.

What is a MarbleSheen Swimming Pool?

MarbleSheen serves as a pool interior coating, applied over the concrete foundation of pools. This mixture is crafted from crushed white marble blended with white or off-white cement, creating a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface.

Where is MarbleSheen found in Swimming Pools?

MarbleSheen serves as a pool interior coating, applied over the concrete foundation of pools. This mixture is crafted from crushed white marble blended with white or off-white cement, creating a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface.

Marblesheen diagram

How was Marblesheen installed & where is it located?

MarbleSheen is typically applied directly over the concrete shell of a pool. Asbestos, however, can be found in various components in and around pools. For example, during the installation of pebblecrete coping, an asbestos cement sheet might have been used as support over the pool's skimmer box. Often, this sheet remains hidden under the pebblecrete, concealed further by tiles, posing a hidden danger.

Marblesheen diagram

Can a pool have Asbestos?

Certainly, pools can indeed harbor asbestos, primarily through materials used in their construction and finishing. MarbleSheen is recognized as one of the predominant swimming pool coatings known to contain asbestos. Beyond MarbleSheen, asbestos was commonly utilized in various building materials during the 1960s and 1970s, including cement sheeting. This sheeting, often employed to secure the top of the skimmer box in place, was typically concealed under tiles. This concealment makes the asbestos difficult to detect without deliberate removal or demolition of the structure. The practice of embedding asbestos in pool construction materials was widespread due to its durability and resistance to chemicals and water, making it a preferred choice before the health risks were fully understood. As regulations have evolved, the use of asbestos has been greatly reduced, but older pools may still pose a risk and require professional assessment to ensure safety.



Why does MarbleSheen Contain Asbestos?

Asbestos was commonly incorporated into MarbleSheen coatings for several key reasons, especially before its health risks were widely acknowledged. This practice persisted until around the mid-1990s, highlighting the need for thorough asbestos testing in pools with MarbleSheen finishes.

The primary reason for adding asbestos to MarbleSheen was its exceptional durability and resistance to the harsh chemical environment of swimming pools. Asbestos fibers, particularly chrysotile or white asbestos, were valued for their ability to strengthen the MarbleSheen mixture, enhancing its longevity and resistance to cracking, water penetration, and chemical damage. This made MarbleSheen an attractive option for pool surfaces, offering a blend of aesthetic appeal and functional durability.

While chrysotile is the most commonly detected type of asbestos in MarbleSheen, other forms, including the more hazardous blue asbestos (crocidolite) and even organic fibers like horsehair in some cementitious products, have also been found. These additions were aimed at improving the structural integrity of the pool surface but have since been recognized for their health implications.

Given the historical use of asbestos in MarbleSheen and other construction materials, it is crucial for owners of older pools to consider professional asbestos testing. Identifying and mitigating asbestos exposure is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of pool users.

What does MarbleSheen look like?

Identifying MarbleSheen can be challenging due to its various forms and colors over time. Key indicators include the pool's color, presence of greenish stains from chemical burns, deterioration spots, and cracking. Pools painted over MarbleSheen are particularly tricky, as the paint can obscure the underlying surface.

  • Painted Pools: The most challenging to identify, painted pools conceal the underlying MarbleSheen, making detection difficult without specific testing. In certain instances, deteriorating paint may reveal the MarbleSheen beneath.
  • Greenish Stains: Stains resulting from chemical reactions or the presence of metals in the water can mask MarbleSheen's original appearance. These stains may mislead observers about the true nature of the pool surface.
  • Deterioration and Renovation: Pools that have never been renovated and show signs of deterioration, such as pitted or crumbled areas, may indicate the presence of MarbleSheen. However, similar signs can also appear in pools with Quartzon surfaces.
  • Cracking Patterns: The appearance of fine, spider-web-like cracks or larger fissures across the pool surface can suggest MarbleSheen. These cracks are a common characteristic of aging MarbleSheen surfaces.
  • Color Variations: Initially white, MarbleSheen can alter in color over time to shades of grey, greenish-grey, or even yellowish tones due to staining or aging, unless it has been painted over.

How likely is a pool to have asbestos?

The likelihood of a pool containing asbestos largely depends on its age and the materials used in its construction and finishing. Pools constructed or renovated before the late 1980s are at a higher risk of containing asbestos, as it was a common component in building materials due to its durability and resistance to chemical damage.

Key Factors Influencing Asbestos Presence in Pools:

Construction Date: Pools built or refurbished before the widespread restriction of asbestos (typically before the late 1980s) are more likely to have materials containing asbestos, such as MarbleSheen finishes or cement sheeting for skimmer boxes.

Type of Materials Used: The use of MarbleSheen, a popular pool finishing material known to have included asbestos fibers to enhance strength and durability, increases the likelihood. Similarly, other construction materials common in older pools, like certain types of tiles, plasters, and adhesives, may also contain asbestos.

Renovation History: Pools that have undergone renovations without asbestos abatement procedures may still retain original materials containing asbestos, hidden beneath newer layers.

Considering these factors, it's advisable for pool owners with pools built or renovated before the 1990s to assume a higher likelihood of asbestos presence. Professional inspection and testing by certified asbestos removal experts are recommended to accurately assess and manage the risk, ensuring the safety of pool users and compliance with health regulations.

How can I recognise MarbleSheen?

Below are photos designed to assist in identifying MarbleSheen within a swimming pool, highlighting that MarbleSheen may exhibit any of these characteristics individually or in various combinations.


Marblesheen & Asbestos advice

Grey Marblesheen

Originally, MarbleSheen was designed to be white, reflecting its primary component of white cement. However, several factors can alter MarbleSheen's appearance over time, with the passage of time being the primary agent of change in both its look and texture. Additionally, pool chemicals play a significant role in affecting the color of MarbleSheen surfaces.

Swimming Pool Expert

For expert advice regarding asbestos in swimming pools.

Melbourne, VIC

0407 666 999

For expert guidance on identifying and managing asbestos in your MarbleSheen pool, don't hesitate to reach out to Andrew. With specialized knowledge and years of experience, Andrew can provide the comprehensive support and solutions you need. Whether you're looking to test for asbestos, require a pool renovation, or simply seek advice, Andrew is your go-to professional in Melbourne. Contact him today at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and ensure your pool is safe and beautifully maintained. Your peace of mind is just an email away—get in touch now for a healthier, safer swimming environment.

Images of your swimming pool are recommended to be attached to your emails, you can also include asbestos reports.