Are you thinking about building a new pool in your backyard, or resurfacing the one you already have? Deciding on a surface material is an important part of your pool construction. Whether you pick plaster or Pebble Tec in Los Angeles, CA, knowing what each material has to offer is key. Your choice will affect durability, cost and maintenance. Read on to learn more about plaster and Pebble Tec so you can make an informed decision.

Plaster

Plaster has been the most common type of pool interior since the 1960s. As long as you keep it properly maintained, it’s durable, long lasting and attractive. Plaster can be standard white, which gives your pool an attractive aqua color, or you can choose colored plaster for a custom look. Plaster interiors last about 10 years when well maintained, and it’s a much more economical choice for most families.

However, plaster has some drawbacks, too. It requires more maintenance than Pebble Tec, and is particularly susceptible to stains or discoloration. Plaster can harbor bacteria if it’s not properly cared for, and you may notice cracks and crumbling. You’ll need to use more chemicals with a plaster surface than you might with a Pebble Tec surface.

Ultimately, if you don’t mind a little extra maintenance and chemicals, plaster is a solid choice that should provide you with years of enjoyment before it needs to be resurfaced.

Pebble Tec

Pebble Tec interiors are an upgrade from plaster. Small pebbles are aggregated with cement to form a beautiful, durable surface that looks like the bottom of a riverbed. It comes in different styles and colors, ranging from tan to blue-green, so you can get a custom finish for your pool.

Pebble Tec is much longer lasting than plaster, when well maintained. Since the surface is slightly uneven, the pebbles hide chemical residue and discoloration much better than plaster can. This surfacing material has been gaining popularity over the last 20 years for that very reason.

There are a few drawbacks, however. Pebble Tec is more expensive than plaster, so if you’re simply looking for a cosmetic upgrade, you might want to opt for custom plaster. Furthermore, since it’s made with pebbles, it’s rougher on your feet than traditional plaster. However, there are some finishes that use smaller pebbles, which provide a smoother surface.

If you want to cut down on your maintenance and pool chemicals for a more attractive, long lasting and durable pool interior, Pebble Tec is the way to go. While it costs more, you’ll save time on maintenance and money on pool chemicals.

Not sure which finish is right for your backyard pool? Talk to the experts at Avanti Pools, Inc. about your choices. We can help you compare costs, maintenance and longevity so you can make an informed decision. Avanti Pools, Inc. has been creating, resurfacing and helping maintain and redesign pools since 1999. Give us a call today to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of choosing plaster vs. Pebble Tec in Los Angeles, CA.