Resurfacing your commercial pool is a significant investment, and selecting the right type of plaster is a key decision in the process. Whether you manage a neighborhood pool, hotel, or municipal facility, it’s important to know what you’re going to get with each pool plaster option. Let’s explore the most popular types of pool plaster and the benefits they offer, helping you make the best choice for your facility’s needs.
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Standard White Pool Plaster
White plaster is a classic choice for commercial pools. It’s made from a mix of white Portland cement and crushed marble, offering a clean, bright appearance as it can reflect the blue in the sky to enhance the hue of your pool. The majority of commercial pools feature white plaster, primarily because of its affordability. However, this lower price comes with some trade-offs, including a shorter lifespan of approximately 7–10 years and a higher susceptibility to staining compared to other plaster types.
Considerations:
- Affordable compared to other options
- Lifespan of around 7-10 years
- Provides a smooth service when applied properly
- Often enhances water’s natural blue hue
- Susceptible to staining and discoloration over time.
Quartz Pool Plaster
Quartz plaster is an upgrade from standard white plaster, blending white cement with crushed quartz for enhanced durability and a different atheistic. The addition of quartz creates a polished, textured surface that is both visually appealing to some and resistant to wear. Quartz finishes are available in a wide variety of colors, making them a popular choice for those seeking a more customized look for their pool.
However, for commercial facilities, the color of your plaster is often regulated by your state. For example, in Georgia, where Sears Pool Management operates, the code says “[t]he color of the interior shall be white or light pastel and shall not obscure the presence of a bather on the bottom of the pool, or of objects, debris, algae, or surface cracks within the pool.” This language limits commercial facilities to only a handful of color options for their plaster.
Considerations:
- Higher upfront cost compared to white plaster
- Lifespan of approximately 11–14 years
- Highly customizable but often regulated
- Resistant to staining and chemical etching
- Textured surfaces may feel rough to some swimmers
Pebble Pool Plaster
Pebble plaster is a premium pool plaster created by combining cement with small, crushed pebbles. This blend provides a natural, textured appearance that complements outdoor environments, offering a unique aesthetic appeal.
This surface is the roughest to the touch, often feeling bumpy. The bumpiness will increase as the surface ages, because the substrate (plaster) will erode over time, and the pebble aggregate will become more exposed. However, pebble plaster is highly durable and resistant to harsh conditions, making it a long-lasting option for commercial pools. Pebble finishes also come in various colors, allowing for extensive customization. Similar to quartz plaster, some states and counties have regulations around using pebble plaster for commercial pools.
Considerations:
- Among the most expensive pool plaster options
- Lifespan of around 15–20 years
- More natural appearance
- Resistant to staining, chemical etching, and fading
- Textured surface may feel rougher for some swimmers
- State and county regulations may prohibit pebble plasters
Different Aggregate Blends
Not all aggregate surfaces are the same. Aggregate surfaces (quartz and pebble) can sometimes come in different blends, or amounts of aggregate. A full quartz surface will have the highest amount of quartz in it and therefore will have increased longevity, as compared to a blended quartz, which might have 50% quartz, which will not last as long and be a less expensive product. Make sure you know which product you are getting when you purchase.
Make Your Commercial Pool Shine
When you’re choosing your next pool plaster, hopefully this guide can make the decision easier. Whether you prefer the classic look of white plaster, the enhanced durability of quartz, or the natural beauty of pebble plaster, each option offers unique benefits and considerations. By understanding the characteristics of each plaster and aligning them with the specific needs of your facility, you can make an educated decision on this large expense.
Consulting with a professional pool service provider can further help you make an informed decision and maintain the quality of your investment for years to come. At Sears Pool Management Consultants, we specialize in commercial pool renovations across the Metro Atlanta area. Our team can guide you through every step, from selecting materials to ensuring a flawless installation.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and transform your commercial pool into a stunning centerpiece for your facility!