What to Expect When Budgeting for Pool Resurfacing

While this calculator gives you a helpful estimate, the final swimming pool resurfacing cost is very specific to your project. Key factors include:

• The Chosen Material: Costs differ significantly based on the type (plaster, aggregate, fiberglass, tile) and the specific product quality, brand, color, or aggregate mix selected within that type.
• Local Market Rates: Current prices for materials and skilled pool resurfacing crews (plasterers, tile setters) change significantly by area.
• Your Pool’s Condition & Site: The amount of prep work needed (repairs, grinding), pool shape complexity, and site accessibility for equipment heavily impact the labor involved.

The smartest way to understand the true cost is to get quotes based on your specific pool and needs.
Fill out the simple form below to connect with local, qualified pool resurfacing professionals for a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your project.

Over time, the interior surface of a swimming pool degrades due to constant exposure to water, chemicals (like chlorine and muriatic acid), sunlight (UV radiation), and physical wear. Resurfacing involves removing the old, damaged layer and applying a new finish. This isn’t just about looks; a deteriorating surface can become rough, causing scrapes, harbor algae (making maintenance harder), and even lead to leaks if cracks develop. Addressing these issues promptly protects your investment and ensures a safe swimming environment.

Types of Pool Resurfacing Materials

Choosing the right resurfacing material involves balancing appearance, longevity, feel, and budget. Here are the common options:

1. Plaster (Marcite)

The traditional standard, typically a mixture of white Portland cement, marble dust (calcium carbonate), and water. Color pigments can be added.

• Pros: Most economical initial cost, classic smooth white or colored appearance.
• Cons: Shortest lifespan (typically 7-12 years), susceptible to staining, etching, and cracking if water chemistry isn’t meticulously maintained. Requires a specific start-up procedure after application.
• Lifespan: 7-12 years.

2. Aggregate Finishes (Exposed Aggregate)

These finishes mix cement with small, polished pieces of quartz, pebbles, or glass beads, which are then partially exposed to create the final texture. Examples include Pebble Tec®, Pebble Sheen®, QuartzScapes®, and StoneScapes®.

• Pros: More durable and longer-lasting than plaster, better resistance to staining and chemical imbalances, variety of textures and colors available (natural stone look, smoother quartz).
• Cons: Higher upfront cost compared to plaster. Some pebble finishes can be rougher on feet, although smoother variations exist (like Pebble Sheen® or polished aggregates).
• Lifespan: 15-25+ years.

3. Fiberglass (Over Existing Concrete/Gunite)

Applied as a multi-layer system, typically involving a primer/bond coat, polyester resin, fiberglass matting, and a final gel coat finish over an existing concrete or gunite pool shell.

• Pros: Very smooth, non-porous surface resistant to algae growth and staining. Durable finish. Can sometimes bridge over minor existing cracks.
• Cons: Can be expensive, requires specialized installers. Potential for delamination or blistering if not applied correctly or if moisture gets trapped. Gel coat may need reapplication eventually (though the fiberglass structure remains).
• Lifespan: 15-25+ years.

4. Pool Paint (Epoxy or Acrylic)

A coating applied over the existing surface. Epoxy paints form a harder, more durable (and water-resistant) layer than acrylics.

• Pros: Lowest initial cost option, potential for DIY application (though professional prep is still advised). Can temporarily improve appearance.
• Cons: Shortest lifespan, requires frequent reapplication. Meticulous surface preparation (cleaning, etching, drying) is mandatory for adhesion. Prone to chipping, fading, and blistering, especially with poor application or water chemistry. Often considered a temporary fix rather than true resurfacing.
• Lifespan: Acrylic: 1-3 years; Epoxy: 5-8 years.

5. Tile (All-Tile Finish)

The entire interior surface is covered in ceramic, porcelain, or glass tiles.

• Pros: Most durable and longest-lasting option, highly resistant to chemicals and algae, luxurious appearance, vast design possibilities.
• Cons: Extremely high material and labor cost. Longer installation time. Grout lines require maintenance and potential eventual re-grouting.
• Lifespan: 25+ years, potentially the lifetime of the pool structure with proper grout care.

Swimming Pool Resurfacing Cost Breakdown

The swimming pool resurfacing cost varies widely based on several factors. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $5,000 and $15,000 for professional resurfacing, but premium materials like all-tile can push costs significantly higher, sometimes exceeding $30,000-$50,000 or more for large pools.

Estimated Cost Per Square Foot by Material Type

Note that pool surface area is not the same as pool volume; it refers to the total area of the walls and floor that needs coverage.

Disclaimer: These are estimates. Actual costs depend heavily on location, pool condition, and specific product choices.

Cost Examples by Pool Size (Surface Area)

Here are rough estimates for common residential pool surface areas:

• Small Pool (~600 sq ft surface area):
  • Plaster: $3,000 – $4,800
  • Aggregate: $4,200 – $9,000+
  • Fiberglass: $4,800 – $8,400
• Medium Pool (~800 sq ft surface area):
  • Plaster: $4,000 – $6,400
  • Aggregate: $5,600 – $12,000+
  • Fiberglass: $6,400 – $11,200
• Large Pool (~1000 sq ft surface area):
  • Plaster: $5,000 – $8,000
  • Aggregate: $7,000 – $15,000+
  • Fiberglass: $8,000 – $14,000

Tile finishes would typically start at $18,000-$24,000+ for small to medium pools and increase substantially.

Factors Affecting Resurfacing Costs

Beyond the material itself, several elements influence the final price tag:

• Pool Size and Shape: Larger pools require more material and labor. Complex shapes with curves, swim-outs, or integrated spas take more time and skill.
• Chosen Resurfacing Material: As shown above, material costs vary significantly.
• Condition of the Existing Surface: If the current surface is heavily damaged, extensive prep work like grinding down old plaster, hydro-blasting, or significant crack repair (using staples or epoxy injection) will add considerable cost.
• Preparation Work: All resurfacing requires draining, cleaning (acid washing or pressure washing), and minor patching. The extent of this prep impacts labor hours.
• Geographic Location: Labor rates differ across regions. Material availability and shipping can also play a role.
• Accessibility: If the pool area is difficult to access with necessary equipment (like plaster pumps or dump trucks for debris removal), labor costs may increase.
• Additional Repairs/Upgrades: Homeowners often bundle other work with resurfacing, such as replacing waterline tile, installing new LED lights, repairing coping, or adding water features. These items add to the total project cost.
• Water and Chemical Costs: The cost to refill the pool (thousands of gallons) and purchase the necessary start-up chemicals to balance the new water needs to be factored in.

Frequency of Resurfacing (Lifespan Expectations)

How often you’ll need to resurface directly relates to the material chosen and how well the pool is maintained:

• Pool Paint: Requires reapplication every 2-8 years.
• Plaster: Typically lasts 7-12 years. Consistent water chemistry balancing is key to maximizing its lifespan.
• Aggregate Finishes: Offer long lifespans of 15-25+ years.
• Fiberglass: Generally lasts 15-25+ years before potentially needing gel coat renewal.
• Tile: The longest-lasting option at 25+ years, often outliving other pool components if grout is maintained.

The Pool Resurfacing Process Overview

Understanding the steps involved helps clarify what your payment covers:

1. Draining: The pool is completely emptied.
2. Preparation: The existing surface is prepped. This usually involves pressure washing, potentially acid washing (for plaster), checking for hollow spots (delamination), and repairing cracks or chips. For some finishes, the old surface might be sandblasted or ground down.
3. Material Application: The new finish (plaster, aggregate mix, fiberglass layers, paint, or tile) is applied by skilled technicians.
4. Finishing: Depending on the material, this might involve troweling (plaster), exposing the aggregate (washing away top cement layer), or applying a final gel coat (fiberglass).
5. Curing: The new surface needs time to cure. Plaster and aggregate finishes often require specific hydration schedules during the initial fill.
6. Refilling: The pool is refilled with fresh water.
7. Water Balancing (Start-up): A critical phase, especially for cementitious finishes (plaster, aggregate), involving adding specific chemicals over days or weeks to ensure the water chemistry doesn’t damage the new surface as it fully cures.

Hiring a Pool Resurfacing Professional

Choosing the right contractor is essential for a lasting result:

• Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure they have appropriate state/local licenses and carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
• Check References and Reviews: Ask for references from recent customers and check online reviews (Google, Yelp, BBB).
• View Their Portfolio: Look at examples of their previous work with the specific material you are considering.
• Get a Detailed Written Contract: The contract should specify the exact scope of work, materials used, payment schedule, estimated timeline, and warranty details.
• Understand the Warranty: Know what the warranty covers (materials, labor) and for how long.

Considering Pool Decking During Your Renovation?

While focusing on the pool’s interior surface, many homeowners also evaluate the condition of the surrounding pool deck. A worn or outdated deck can detract from a newly resurfaced pool. If you are planning a larger backyard renovation, addressing both might be efficient. The following information relates specifically to pool decking costs and materials.

Cost Breakdown by Material Type

Note: These decking costs are separate from pool resurfacing costs.

As you can see, the cost of pool decking varies significantly based on the material chosen. Poured concrete is often the most budget-friendly option, while natural stone tends to be the most expensive due to its inherent qualities and visual appeal.

Size Considerations (Decking)

The size of your pool deck will greatly influence the overall cost for the decking portion of any project. Here are some average decking costs based on common sizes:

• Small Deck (100 sq ft): $500 – $1,500
• Medium Deck (200 sq ft): $1,000 – $3,000
• Large Deck (400 sq ft): $2,000 – $6,000
• Extra Large Deck (600 sq ft): $3,000 – $9,000

Keep in mind that these decking costs can vary based on the material selected and any additional features such as lighting or railings.

Pros and Cons of Popular Decking Materials

Get Started on Your Pool Resurfacing Project

Ready to revitalize your pool area?

Contact qualified local pool service and decking companies today for consultations and estimates tailored to your specific pool here:

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