Pool Plaster Refinishing Restoring Your Pool's Sparkle and Shine

A swimming pool is a fantastic way to cool off on a hot summer day, but years of use can take a toll on the pool's plaster surface. Sun exposure, chemicals, and wear and tear can cause the plaster to become dull, discolored, or even develop cracks. If your pool is starting to look lackluster, pool plaster refinishing might be the perfect solution to restore its beauty and functionality.

What is Pool Plaster Refinishing?

Pool plaster refinishing, also sometimes referred to as resurfacing, is the process of applying a new layer of material to the existing pool interior. This can dramatically improve the look and feel of your pool, while also addressing minor cracks or imperfections in the plaster surface.

Types of Pool Plaster Finishes

There are several different types of pool plaster finishes available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here's a quick breakdown of the most common options:

Traditional Quartz Plaster: This is the most popular type of pool plaster, known for its durability and affordability. Quartz plaster is made from a mixture of sand, cement, and quartz aggregates, which gives it a classic white or light-colored finish.
Silica Sand Plaster: Similar to quartz plaster, but with a finer sand content, resulting in a smoother finish. Silica sand plaster is also known for its good durability and is available in a slightly wider range of colors than traditional quartz plaster.
Pebble Sheen: This type of plaster contains small, smooth pebbles mixed into the base coat. Pebble sheen offers a luxurious look and a variety of colors to choose from. It's also known for its slip resistance and algae resistance.
Glass Bead Plaster: Similar to pebble sheen, but uses crushed glass beads instead of pebbles. This creates a shimmering, pool-of-water effect and comes in a variety of colors. Glass bead plaster is also slip-resistant and resistant to algae growth.

Benefits of Pool Plaster Refinishing

There are many advantages to refinishing your pool plaster:

Improved Aesthetics: A refinished pool will look brighter, cleaner, and more inviting. You can choose a new finish or color to completely transform the look of your pool.
Enhanced Durability: A new coat of plaster will protect the underlying concrete structure of your pool from damage caused by chemicals and wear and tear.
Increased Smoothness: Over time, pool plaster can become rough or develop minor cracks. Refinishing creates a smoother surface, which is more comfortable to walk on and helps to prevent algae growth.
Improved Pool Chemistry: A fresh coat of plaster can help to maintain a better chemical balance in your pool water, making it easier to keep your pool clean and healthy.
Increased Value: A refinished pool will look more appealing to potential buyers and can increase the value of your property.

Signs You Need Pool Plaster Refinishing

There are a few telltale signs that your pool plaster may need refinishing:

Discoloration: If your pool plaster has faded, become stained, or has a chalky appearance, it may be time to refinish.
Roughness: If the surface of your pool feels rough or uneven, this could indicate that the plaster is deteriorating.
Cracks: Minor cracks in the plaster may not be a major concern at first, but they can eventually grow larger and lead to leaks.
Algae Growth: If your pool is prone to algae growth, even with proper maintenance, this could be a sign that the plaster surface is no longer providing a healthy environment.

Cost of Pool Plaster Refinishing

The cost of pool plaster refinishing will vary depending on the size of your pool, the type of plaster finish you choose, and the labor rates in your area. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000 for pool plaster refinishing.

Here are some additional factors that can affect the cost:

Size and Shape of Your Pool: The larger and more complex the shape of your pool, the more it will cost to refinish.
Pool Depth: Pools with varying depths will require more plaster and labor to refinish.
Removal of Existing Plaster: If your existing plaster needs to be completely removed before refinishing, this will add to the cost.
Chemical Treatments: Depending on the condition of your pool, chemical treatments may be required before refinishing to remove stains or kill algae. This will add to the overall cost.
Water Removal and Disposal: The pool needs to be completely drained before refinishing. The cost of water removal and disposal will vary depending on your location and local regulations.
Tile Replacement: If your pool tile is also in poor condition, you may want to consider replacing it at the same time as the plaster. This will add significantly to the cost of the project.

Finding a Pool Plastering Contractor

Once you've decided to move forward with pool plaster refinishing, it's important to find a qualified contractor to do the job. Here are some tips for finding a reputable pool plastering company:

Get Multiple Estimates: Don't settle for the first quote you receive. Get estimates from at least three different contractors to compare prices and services.
Check Credentials: Make sure the contractor you choose is licensed and insured. Ask for references and check online reviews to see what other customers have experienced.
Ask Questions: Don't be afraid to ask the contractor questions about their experience, the materials they use, and the warranty they offer. Make sure you understand the entire scope of work and the expected timeline for the project.

Taking Care of Your Refinished Pool

Following these tips will help you keep your newly refinished pool looking its best for years to come:

Maintain Proper Water Chemistry: Regularly testing and balancing your pool water is essential for preventing staining and premature wear of the plaster.
Brush Regularly: Brushing the pool walls and floor regularly will help to remove dirt and debris that can contribute to algae growth.
Shock Regularly: Shocking your pool periodically will help to kill bacteria and algae.
Maintain Proper Water Level: Keeping the water level at the appropriate level will help to prevent the plaster from drying out and cracking.
Cover Your Pool: When not in use, covering your pool will help to keep it clean and protect it from the sun's UV rays.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your pool plaster refinishing project is a success and that you can enjoy your beautiful, sparkling pool for many years to come.