Choosing Pool Finishes: Plaster vs Pebble vs Quartz

A pool finish should do much more than just cover the surface. It should effortlessly define the look, feel, and durability of your entire pool. There are many types of pool finishes to choose from, so whether you’re planning a pool renovation or building from square one, making this decision is one of the most important parts of completing your project.

Some of the most popular pools finish today include plaster, pebble, and quartz, and each option features unique qualities. So, we have created this comprehensive guide to help you determine which finish will be best for your pool – and your long-term satisfaction. From color and texture to ease of maintenance and everything in between, let’s break down the details so you can choose with confidence.

What Is a Pool Finish?

The finish you choose for your pool’s interior surface should make a big splash in style, resilience, and comfort for everyone getting in on the fun. And the right finish will ultimately transform a simple swim into a luxury experience.

You want a pool finish that’s easy to maintain, and one that’ll give you longevity in your investment. This means the finish should be able to resist everyday wear, chemical imbalances, and any exposure to environmental stress.

Pool finishes fall into three primary categories – plaster, pebble, and quartz. Each one will have a big impact on your pool’s durability and appearance, as well as what your maintenance routine will look like. So, let’s take a closer look at how these three finishes add up:

Plaster Pool Finish

Plaster is the traditional option that’s made from white Portland cement mixed with marble dust and water. While it’s affordable and widely used, plaster can be more prone to staining and surface wear over time compared to more advanced finishes.

Pebble Pool Finish

This premium option blends natural pebbles with cement to create a textured, organic appearance that feels natural underfoot. Renowned brands like PebbleTec engineer finishes that feature exceptional durability, vibrant color choices, and superior resistance to fading and staining. When you’re after an upgraded option from traditional plaster, a PebbleTec pool finish may be the ideal choice.

Quartz Pool Finish

This high-end surface combines quartz crystals with polymer-modified cement for strength and energetic color. If you appreciate brilliant light-reflecting properties, enhanced stain resistance, and a much smoother feel than conventional plaster, pool finishes from manufacturers like Diamond Brite provide all that and more.

Comparing and Choosing the Perfect Pool Finish

Budget, longevity, and visual appeal matter when selecting your finish. And while plaster is the most affordable option, it offers the shortest lifespan. Quartz sits in the middle, delivering more durability than plaster, and thanks to the quartz crystals, you’ll get a polished, sparkling look! Pebble finishes lead the way for strength and style, and the variety of pebble pool finish colors gives you endless design possibilities, although it comes with the highest cost of the three.

Plaster typically lasts seven to 10 years, quartz can hold up for 12 to 15 years, and pebble finishes often exceed 20 years. If you want a finish that looks stunning and stands the test of time, pebble and quartz options are worth serious consideration.

Installation Considerations for Each Finish Type

Every finish requires a precise process to achieve the look and durability you expect. While plaster is hand-applied and troweled for a uniform surface, pebble and quartz finishes involve spraying a cement-and-aggregate mix, compacting it, then washing and acid-treating to expose the texture. Both pebble and colored quartz are types of pool finishes that demand professional application from authorized installers. They have the specialized equipment and expertise needed to apply proper installation processes and complete the project the right way.

Why Choose Millennium Pools and Spas for Your Pool Finish?

Partnering with the right team makes a huge difference for your backyard oasis. And our team here at Millennium Pools and Spas has been trusted by homeowners and businesses across Virginia, Washington D.C., and Maryland since 2006. Our team brings more than three decades of industry experience and a reputation for delivering gold-standard results, no matter the scope or complexity of the project.

As licensed and authorized installers of PebbleTec and Diamond Brite pool finishes, we offer premium services and products that combine the world-class durability and stunning style your home or business deserves! From precision installation and ongoing maintenance to our wide selection of the latest pool finish products – including the Diamond Brite WaterColor® Series and PebbleTec’s premium pool colors – we make it easy to create a pool that looks incredible and lasts for years.

Let’s Give Your Pool a Shimmering Upgrade Today

Your pool deserves a look that sparks joy every time the sun hits the water. And Millennium Pools and Spas is here to deliver exactly that! So, let’s make your pool neighborhood favorite and get your project started today! If you’re ready for our skilled pool specialists to transform your pool, fill out our contact form or give us a call and speak with a professional who can guide you through every detail.