Designing your dream pool involves more than choosing the size, shape, and additional features—it also requires selecting the right finish. A pool’s finish is the final layer applied to its interior, and it not only defines the pool’s overall look but also impacts its longevity, maintenance requirements, and how enjoyable it is to swim in.
For homeowners in Central Florida, where pools are a staple of outdoor living, choosing the right pool finish is crucial. Factors such as the region’s high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and frequent pool usage all come into play when deciding on the best materials and colors. The right finish can enhance the aesthetic of your pool and backyard, while also offering durability to withstand Florida’s unique climate.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular pool finish options—plaster, tile, and aggregate—discuss their pros and cons, and explain how they affect the look, feel, and longevity of your pool.
1. Plaster: The Classic Pool Finish
Plaster has been a go-to pool finish for decades due to its affordability and smooth texture. It’s made by mixing cement, sand, and water, and is often referred to as Marcite when used in pool construction. While white plaster has traditionally been the standard, modern plaster finishes are now available in a variety of colors, giving homeowners more options to complement their backyard aesthetic.
Pros of Plaster
- Affordability: Plaster is one of the most cost-effective pool finishes, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.
- Smooth Texture: The smooth surface of plaster provides a comfortable feel for swimmers, making it pleasant to touch and easy to clean.
- Color Customization: While white plaster remains popular for its clean, traditional look, tinted plaster is gaining popularity in Central Florida. Adding pigments to the plaster allows homeowners to customize the color of their pool’s interior, with shades of blue, gray, or beige creating a more natural, water-like appearance.
Cons of Plaster
- Shorter Lifespan: Plaster finishes typically last between 5 to 10 years before they start to show signs of wear. Over time, plaster can become rough, develop cracks, and require reapplication.
- Maintenance: Maintaining a plaster pool can be more demanding, especially in Florida’s hot and humid climate. Plaster is porous, which means it can be more prone to algae growth, staining, and discoloration if the water’s chemical balance isn’t maintained properly.
Best for
Homeowners who want a smooth, affordable, and simple finish. Plaster is great for those looking for a classic pool look and are prepared for some extra maintenance to keep it looking its best.
2. Tile: Elegant and Durable
Tile is the most luxurious pool finish option available and is known for its durability and stunning appearance. Available in a wide range of materials such as ceramic, porcelain, and glass, tile finishes allow homeowners to create intricate designs, from simple, elegant looks to elaborate mosaics.
Pros of Tile
- Durability: Tile is the longest-lasting pool finish, with many installations lasting 20 years or more. It’s resistant to chemicals, weathering, and fading, making it an ideal choice for Florida’s hot summers and humid conditions.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Tile provides a high-end, elegant look that can elevate the appearance of any pool. Glass and ceramic tiles come in an array of colors and finishes, including reflective and iridescent options that catch the sunlight and shimmer, creating a luxurious feel.
- Custom Designs: With tile, homeowners have virtually unlimited design options. Whether you want a simple pattern or an elaborate mosaic that turns your pool into a work of art, tile can bring your vision to life.
- Low Maintenance: Tile is non-porous, meaning it’s less likely to harbor algae or bacteria. This makes cleaning and maintenance much easier, reducing the amount of time spent on upkeep.
Cons of Tile
- Higher Cost: Tile finishes are more expensive than plaster or aggregate. Both the materials and installation process require a higher investment, which can be a consideration for homeowners on a budget.
- Complex Installation: Installing a tile pool finish requires skilled labor and can take longer than other finishes, which may extend the overall timeline of your pool project.
Best for
Homeowners who are looking for a luxury finish with long-lasting durability and a customizable aesthetic. Tile is ideal for those who want a visually stunning pool that requires minimal maintenance.
3. Aggregate: A Blend of Beauty and Strength
Aggregate finishes have grown in popularity over the past several years due to their combination of durability, texture, and aesthetic variety. Aggregate finishes consist of a mixture of plaster and small pieces of quartz, pebbles, or glass beads, which are exposed during the finishing process to create a unique textured surface.
Two of the most common types of aggregate finishes are Pebble Tec and QuartzScapes. Both offer excellent durability and a range of design options to enhance the look of your pool.
Pros of Aggregate
- Durability: Aggregate finishes last longer than traditional plaster, with many installations lasting 15 years or more. The inclusion of quartz or pebbles increases the durability of the finish, making it resistant to staining, etching, and discoloration.
- Aesthetic Versatility: Aggregate finishes offer a natural, textured appearance that mimics the look of a riverbed or beach. With a variety of colors and textures to choose from, aggregate finishes can create a stunning visual effect, whether you want a tropical lagoon vibe or a sleek, modern look.
- Non-Slip Surface: The textured surface of aggregate finishes makes them more slip-resistant than plaster, adding an element of safety to your pool, especially in homes with children or elderly swimmers.
Cons of Aggregate
- Higher Cost Than Plaster: While not as expensive as tile, aggregate finishes do come at a higher price point than plaster. However, their longer lifespan can make them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
- Rougher Texture: The textured surface of aggregate finishes can feel rougher on bare feet compared to the smooth surface of plaster. This can be a consideration for homeowners who prioritize comfort while swimming.
Best for
Homeowners who want a balance between durability, beauty, and safety. Aggregate finishes are perfect for those who desire a natural, high-end look without the high cost of tile and are willing to invest in a finish that will stand the test of time.
Choosing the Right Color: How Color Impacts Your Pool’s Look and Feel
Once you’ve selected the material for your pool finish, the next step is choosing the color. The color of your pool’s interior finish plays a major role in the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space and even how the water looks and feels.
Light Colors
- Appearance: Light-colored finishes, such as white or light gray, create a bright, classic look that reflects the sky and sunlight, making the water appear crisp and refreshing.
- Best for: Homeowners looking for a traditional, clean pool look. Light finishes are particularly effective in making smaller pools appear larger.
Dark Colors
- Appearance: Dark-colored finishes, such as deep blue, black, or dark gray, create a bold, modern look that gives the water a lagoon-like appearance. Dark finishes also tend to hold heat better, making the water feel warmer.
- Best for: Homeowners who want a dramatic, resort-style pool. Dark finishes can create a more intimate, luxurious feel in your backyard.
Colored Aggregates and Tile
- Appearance: Colored aggregates and tiles offer vibrant, custom looks that range from natural stone hues to shimmering blues and greens that reflect light in unique ways. Glass beads in aggregate finishes can create a sparkling effect, adding depth and beauty to the water.
- Best for: Homeowners who want a visually stunning, customized pool that complements their landscape and personal style.
Longevity: How to Extend the Life of Your Pool Finish
Regardless of the pool finish you choose, proper care and maintenance are essential for extending its lifespan. In Central Florida, where pools are exposed to high levels of sun, heat, and rain, following these maintenance tips can help preserve your pool’s finish:
- Maintain Water Chemistry: Regularly test and balance your pool’s pH, alkalinity, and chlorine levels to prevent staining, scaling, and other damage to the finish.
- Brush the Surface: Brushing your pool’s surface can prevent algae and debris buildup, particularly in plaster and aggregate finishes.
- Schedule Professional Inspections: Regular inspections by a pool professional can identify early signs of wear and tear, allowing for timely repairs.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Pool Finish with Presidential Pools and Spas
Choosing the right pool finish is key to creating a pool that not only looks stunning but also lasts for years to come. Whether you opt for the affordability of plaster, the elegance of tile, or the durability of aggregate, each finish offers unique benefits to suit your needs and style.At Presidential Pools and Spas of Central Florida, we specialize in helping homeowners select and install the perfect pool finish for their backyard oasis. With a wide range of materials and colors to choose from, we’ll guide you through the process and ensure that your pool is as beautiful as it is durable. Contact us today to start designing the pool of your dreams!