Both pebble and plaster pool finishes have their own unique benefits and considerations, so it's important to understand the key differences before deciding which is best for your pool.
At PebbleTec, we’re proud to be the leading provider of high-quality pebble finishes that offer unmatched durability, beauty and customization options. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of plaster and pebble pool finishes to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Plaster has long been the traditional choice for pool finishes. This smooth, cement-based material is applied as a thin coating over the pool’s underlying structure. Plaster finishes are known for their affordability and initial smooth appearance.
Pros of Plaster Finishes
- Upfront cost is typically lower than other options
- Provides a uniformly smooth surface, at least initially
Considerations for Plaster Finishes
- Relatively short lifespan (5-15 years)
- More likely to show significant staining, discoloration and erosion over time
- Can develop a rougher texture over time that is less comfortable for swimmers
One of the main drawbacks of plaster is its limited durability.
The surface can become increasingly uneven and pitted as the finish wears down, leading to an unpleasant swimming experience. This wear and tear also detracts from the pool’s appearance, as staining and mottling is very noticeable. Plaster requires more frequent maintenance and resurfacing to keep the pool looking its best.
In contrast, a pebble pool finish (aggregate finish) offers a longer-lasting and more durable alternative to traditional plaster.
Pebble finishes use a mixture of small, smooth pebbles that are combined with a binding agent and then applied over the pool’s surface. Please note that there are significant differences between manufacturers of pebble finishes. PebbleTec pool finishes are widely renowned for their consistent material quality, adherence to careful specifications and reliable installation by an elite network of exclusive applicators.
Pros of Pebble Finishes
- Significantly longer lifespan: 20+ years with proper pool chemistry and maintenance
- Resistant to staining, fading, mottling and erosion
- Smoother, more comfortable surface for swimmers
- Wider range of unique aesthetic options and customization
- More refined, natural appearance
At PebbleTec, we are proud of our premium pebble finishes that offer unparalleled quality, beauty and durability.
Our proprietary blend of pebbles is carefully selected and combined to create finishes that not only look stunning but also provide a safe, comfortable surface for swimmers of all ages. PebbleTec uses fade-resistant, high-quality pigments, as well as proprietary additives to enhance finish strength and finish longevity. In addition, we offer an industry-leading warranty that includes a product warranty and an installer-provided warranty on workmanship, so that you can trust your finish will deliver well on your investment.
Considerations for Pebble Finishes
- Generally higher upfront cost compared to plaster
While the initial investment in a pebble finish may be slightly higher, the long-term benefits usually make it a more cost-effective choice. Pebble finishes offer natural elegance. They also tend to show mottling far less than plaster finishes do, requiring fewer costly repairs and saving pool owners money in the long run. And PebbleTec is the only provider of pool finishes with a double warranty, with warranty coverage for both the product (offered by PebbleTec) and the workmanship (offered by our elite PebbleTec Authorized Applicators).
Comparing Cost and Maintenance
When it comes to the overall cost of pool finishes, there are several factors to consider beyond the initial installation price tag.
Plaster finishes tend to have a lower upfront cost. However, plaster pools often require more frequent resurfacing and maintenance, and typically have a lower average lifespan because they are less resilient to changing water chemistry conditions and easily show mottling, streaking and staining. This means that over the lifetime of the pool, the total cost of owning a plaster finish can be higher than a pebble finish.
Pebble finishes have a slightly higher upfront investment. However, their superior durability and longevity can offset this higher initial investment. Pebble finishes also generally require less maintenance, which further reduces long-term ownership costs.
It’s important to weigh the short-term and long-term financial implications when deciding between plaster and pebble finishes. For pool owners seeking a more cost-effective solution that will last for years, a high-quality pebble finish from PebbleTec is well known in the industry as the better choice.
PebbleTec pool finishes have superior durability when compared with other finish types like quartz or plaster.
Beyond practical concerns, the aesthetic appeal of a pool finish is also a crucial consideration. Plaster finishes offer a classic, uniform look, but the options are relatively limited compared to pebble finishes.
Pebble finishes provide a much wider range of aesthetic possibilities and finish styles. PebbleTec offers an extensive selection (over 60 options) of pebble colors, combinations and enhancements, allowing pool owners to create a truly unique and customized look for their backyard oasis that they will love for years. High quality color pigments, careful sizing/color specifications and inclusion of PebbleTec proprietary strengtheners ensure maximum longevity.
Whether you prefer a bold, vibrant water color scheme or a more natural, earthy aesthetic, PebbleTec has a pebble finish that will complement your pool and landscape design and delight your guests.
When it comes to choosing the perfect pool finish, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Both plaster and pebble finishes have features that may appeal to different pool owners. However, for pool owners seeking long-lasting durability, enhanced safety and unparalleled customization, a premium pebble finish from PebbleTec is the clear winner. There’s a reason PebbleTec is renowned for offering the world’s most trusted pool finishes.
Our high-quality pebble blends offer unmatched beauty, comfort and value that will transform your backyard oasis into a true haven. Contact the PebbleTec team today to learn more about our pebble finish options and how we can help you create your dream pool.
FAQs
Pebble finishes from PebbleTec are designed to provide exceptional durability and can last well over 20 years when properly maintained.
Yes, pebble finishes can be repaired or refinished if necessary. However, this is not common for PebbleTec finishes.
Proper pool chemistry, including balanced pH, alkalinity and calcium levels, is essential for maintaining the long-term integrity of a pebble finish. Our pool care instructions will help keep your pebble finish looking its best.
.
No, pebble finishes from PebbleTec are designed to provide a comfortable, non-slip surface for swimmers. The smooth, rounded pebbles create a textured surface that is both safe and beautiful.
Enhancement are always possible! Speak to your authorized PebbleTec applicator for details. (PebbleTec only works with authorized installers. To locate one near you, visit our Find A Builder page.)
Pebble finishes can vary in texture. PebbleTec offers a spectrum of choices ranging from the natural pebble texture of PebbleTec to the refined PebbleSheen to the ultra-smooth PebbleBreeze and PebbleFina options.
