When designing your dream swimming pool, don’t forget to carefully choose the right pool finishes.
The right pool finish can transform the appearance, comfort, and durability of your swimming pool. With so many colors, textures, and materials available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Learning how to choose pool finishes can help you create a pool that complements your backyard while meeting your expectations for maintenance and longevity.
Consider Your Pool’s Overall Design
Before comparing materials, think about the look you want to achieve. Do you prefer a bright, modern pool or a natural lagoon-inspired retreat? Your home’s architecture, landscaping, decking, and surrounding hardscaping can all guide your decision.
Lighter finishes often create clear, vibrant blue water, while darker materials may produce a deeper blue or green appearance. Keep in mind that water depth, sunlight, shade, and surrounding colors can also affect how the finished pool looks.
Pool Tile Options
Tile is commonly installed around the waterline, on steps, along raised walls, or throughout an entire pool. It is available in ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular because they are durable and available in many colors and patterns. Glass tile provides a reflective, upscale appearance and can make the water sparkle in sunlight. Natural stone tile blends beautifully with waterfalls, rock features, and rustic landscapes.
When selecting tile, consider how easily it can be cleaned and whether it is rated for swimming pool use. A slip-resistant material may be especially important for steps, benches, and other frequently used areas.
Traditional Pool Plaster
Standard white plaster remains a classic and affordable choice. It creates the familiar light-blue water color found in many residential pools. Plaster also provides a smooth surface that feels comfortable underfoot.
However, plaster may show stains, discoloration, and surface wear more readily than some upgraded finishes. Proper water chemistry is essential for protecting the surface and extending its life. Colored plaster is available, but variations in color may become more noticeable over time.
Pebble Pool Finishes
Pebble finishes combine small stones or aggregates with cement to create a textured, natural-looking surface. These finishes are available in numerous colors and aggregate sizes, making them suitable for everything from tropical pools to elegant contemporary designs.
Pebble surfaces are generally durable and resistant to staining and chemical damage. Some options have a noticeable texture, while polished or smaller aggregates can feel smoother. Homeowners should see and touch samples before making a final selection.
Compare Maintenance, Comfort, and Cost
When you choose pool finishes, consider more than appearance. Compare each material’s expected lifespan, maintenance requirements, texture, warranty, and total installation cost. A more expensive finish may offer better durability and long-term value.
It is also helpful to view completed pools rather than relying entirely on small samples. Colors can look different underwater and in natural sunlight.
Choose a Finish That Fits Your Lifestyle
The ideal pool finish should support your design goals, budget, and maintenance preferences. By comparing tile, plaster, and pebble options with an experienced pool contractor, you can select a surface that makes your pool beautiful, comfortable, and ready for years of enjoyment.
Let Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders Make Your Dream Pool a Reality
If you still have questions about how to build a brand new swimming pool, Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC is here to help you. At Sunrise Pools, we can build and install your pool, spa, or hot tub and provide you with pool chemicals, services, and more. If you have questions, feel free to give us a call at 410-349-3852. To see more from us and for tips and tricks, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.