Licence agreement
Each Applicator has a contractual agreement with STONEPRO Pty Ltd, which protects both parties and details the responsibilities of each. This is called an Applicators Licence Agreement and the basic principles are :
• Start - up : The new Applicator agrees to purchase a basic package of product, equipment, tools and sales aids, which will enable them to generate sales and complete jobs with the help of Stonepro supervisors and trainers.
• Training : Training is provided by STONEPRO Pty Ltd, either in the Australia or at the Applicator's jobs. This facility is permanently on offer for re-training and help with large jobs, etc.
• Sales Aids : Sales aids such as brochures, sample boards, point of sale display units, web site promotions, advertising etc are provided at minimal cost. Included with the contract information is an equipment and tool list, which includes sales aids, with all relevant prices.
Costs
• Start-up and tool supplies : STONEPRO Pty Ltd charges a small Licence Fee. The Licence Fee is payable once only and there are no annual or renewal fees. A certain amount of equipment is needed at the outset, which is included in the License Fee. An existing applicator would order tools etc as needed.
• Training and help : Training / re-training / assistance with jobs is provided by Stonepro trainers at the Applicator's site at a basic day rate plus travel and accommodation expenses.
• Products: Material is supplied by container to the nearest suitable port. The price varies with destination per 20kg bag, which includes delivery to the port. The Applicator is responsible for all costs to clear customs, local taxes and onward transport. A container holds 21 tonnes of material (1,050 bags). One bag is approximately enough for 1m2 and when additives, oxides and white cement are added the costs per m2 will vary depending on the destination, application method and finish of the concrete shell. Stonepro do not dictate any retail price for its applicators.
Products
The interior of a Pebble Tec® or Pebble Sheen® brand pool consist of a very hard layer of pebble and cement mixture, about 1 to 2cm thick. The top surface is exposed to reveal a tight matrix of tiny smooth, round stones and these form a virtually indestructible quartz lining to the pool which is slip resistant, pleasantly textured, attractive and above all hard wearing. The application is a 'wet process' and there is therefore no limit to the shape and form of the pool. The material is strong enough to be used out of the water as well, so beach features pebble rollovers and small terrace areas are possible.
Services
Application Training for Swimming Pools and Spas
The successful application of pebble is neither very complicated or a mystery. It does however require a skilled team of experienced applicators who understand the process, know the techniques and can work as a synchronised unit.
Pebble is mixed with cement and other additives and then applied either manually or via a pump, as a 2cm layer over the interior of the pool. This is then trowelled to achieve a smooth and well contoured shape. As the material begins to harden a fine, high pressure wash is carried out which exposes the top layer of pebble.
This process is repeated as many times as necessary, throughout the pool, until a tight pebble matrix is achieved and the stones are 'locked' together as closely as possible. This technique is the single most important part of the application and it is essential that it is carried out correctly if the integrity of the lining is not to be compromised.
