Pool resurfacing and replastering get mixed up a lot, even though they aren’t exactly the same thing. Both aim to restore and refresh a swimming pool’s surface—making it look sharp and work well for years.
We at Dolphin Pool Services often see folks use these terms interchangeably, but there’s a subtle difference. Replastering typically means adding new plaster over an old surface, while resurfacing might involve other materials and techniques.
Both resurfacing and replastering tackle problems like rough spots, stains, and the wear-and-tear that comes from years of use and chemicals. Knowing when your pool needs this kind of work—and what method to use—can seriously stretch its lifespan and save you some headaches down the road.
The choice of materials, timing, and process can change everything from costs to how much maintenance you’ll have later. It’s worth understanding your options and what each one brings to the table.
If you own a pool, you already know the surface needs regular upkeep to stay safe and inviting. Resurfacing means adding new materials over what’s already there, while replastering is just about swapping out the plaster layer on concrete pools.
When we resurface a pool, we apply a new material right over the old surface. This gives the pool a fresh start without ripping everything out.
You can pick from a bunch of materials. Fiberglass coatings give you a slick, tough finish. Vinyl liners are a wallet-friendly fix for older pools. Aggregate coatings add texture and help prevent slips.
We can resurface all sorts of pools. Concrete pools get new coatings over worn plaster. Fiberglass pools might just need a gel coat. If you’ve got a vinyl pool, you’re usually looking at a full liner replacement.
Most resurfacing jobs take three to seven days. Of course, weather can slow things down if it’s not cooperating.
Replastering is a bit more involved. We strip away the old plaster and lay down a brand new coat. This is really just for concrete pools with plaster finishes.
First, we drain the pool. Then, we remove the old plaster with some pretty specialized tools. After that, we clean up the concrete, fix any damage, and get it ready for a new layer.
Standard plaster is just white cement and marble dust. If you want some color, we can add pigments. Aggregate plaster uses pebbles or quartz for extra durability and a bit of texture.
Applying new plaster takes some skill. Our crew puts it on in thin, even coats. It needs a few days to cure before we refill the pool.
A good replaster job can last anywhere from seven to twelve years, depending on how well you keep up with maintenance and water chemistry.
The real difference? Replastering means we take off the old layer first. Resurfacing just adds something new on top.
Material choices look like this:
| Replastering | Resurfacing |
|---|---|
| White plaster | Fiberglass coatings |
| Colored plaster | Vinyl liners |
| Aggregate plaster | Epoxy finishes |
| Quartz plaster | Rubber coatings |
Replastering takes more prep and skilled labor, so it usually costs more. Resurfacing is often cheaper because it’s less involved.
How long things last depends on the method and materials. Plaster can go over a decade if you treat it right. Some resurfacing materials might not last as long but are easier to maintain.
Replastering is just for concrete pools with plaster. Resurfacing works for pretty much any pool type.
We always tell pool owners to keep an eye out for warning signs that their pool surface needs some love. Knowing the difference between resurfacing and replastering helps you pick the right fix.
You’ll notice a rough or chalky texture when plaster starts giving out. That’s usually the first sign.
If you see stains that just won’t budge, your surface might be soaking up chemicals and dirt. Dark spots or weird colors are a red flag.
Cracks let algae and bacteria sneak in. Even tiny ones can turn into a headache fast.
If you spot plaster dust on the pool floor, the surface is wearing away. You’ll see a white powder after the pool sits for a while.
Etching—little pits or rough patches—happens when the chemicals get out of whack.
Most pool surfaces last about 10 to 15 years before these problems pop up. Staying on top of maintenance can stretch that out.
Resurfacing is a good call when the damage is minor or moderate. We just add a new layer over what’s already there.
It’s usually more affordable than replastering and gets your pool back in action faster. Most jobs wrap up in a few days.
Want to give the pool a facelift? Resurfacing lets you pick from:
If your old plaster is still solid underneath, resurfacing makes sense.
Sometimes, though, you can’t avoid full replastering. When the damage goes deep, patches won’t cut it.
Big cracks all over? The plaster’s shot and needs to come out.
Severe etching or deep damage means we have to remove everything. Surface fixes just won’t do.
Basic replastering runs about $5 per square foot. Fancy finishes like polished aggregate can cost almost twice as much.
If your pool has been patched up a bunch or is just really old, replastering is usually the only way forward.
Heavy calcium buildup that’s sunk into the plaster? Chemical treatments won’t fix that—you need a fresh start.
This process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple weeks, depending on your pool’s size and what we find.
When you’re ready to resurface, you’ve got options. Traditional plaster is still popular because it’s affordable, but newer stuff like pebble or quartz finishes can look amazing and last longer.
We’ve used traditional plaster—also called marcite—for decades. It’s just white cement, sand, and water.
A plaster surface usually lasts seven to ten years. Over time, it can crack, get rough, or stain from chemicals and plain old use.
Why people still pick plaster:
But there are downsides:
With replastering, we take off the old layer and put on fresh material. It gives your pool a brand new look and seals everything up.
If you want something tougher or fancier, there are plenty of choices.
Pebble finishes use tiny stones mixed with cement. They’re more resistant to stains and give a natural vibe. Pebble can last 15 to 20 years.
Quartz finishes mix crushed quartz with plaster. These hold up against algae and chemicals, and they sparkle in the sun. Lots of color options, too.
Glass bead finishes use recycled glass for a really flashy, smooth surface. Light bounces off them in cool ways.
Fiberglass resurfacing is the heavy-duty option. It stands up to weather, erosion, and chemicals better than the rest. Plus, algae has a tough time hanging on.
| Material | Lifespan | Cost Level | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Plaster | 7-10 years | Low | High |
| Pebble | 15-20 years | Medium-High | Medium |
| Quartz | 12-15 years | High | Low |
| Fiberglass | 20+ years | Highest | Lowest |
Honestly, it comes down to your budget, how much work you want to do, and the look you’re after.
If you’re budget-conscious, plaster is the way to go. But remember, you’ll be resurfacing more often. Premium materials cost more upfront but save you maintenance headaches.
If your pool gets a lot of action, quartz or pebble finishes can take the beating. They don’t wear out as fast as plaster.
Live somewhere hot and sunny? Plaster can wear out quicker. Fiberglass or other UV-resistant materials handle the heat better.
Some surfaces are fussier with chemicals. Plaster needs careful balancing, while quartz and pebble are a bit more forgiving.
We at Dolphin Pool Services can take a look and help you pick what fits your pool and your lifestyle.
When we resurface or replaster an inground pool, there’s a pretty set order: inspect, prep, apply, cure, and get the water chemistry right.
First up, we drain the pool and check out the surface. We look for cracks, chips, and spots where the plaster’s come loose.
Our crew strips off the old plaster using chipping hammers and grinders. This exposes the concrete underneath and gives us a clean slate.
We clean the concrete really well—pressure washing, maybe even an acid wash—to get rid of dust and debris.
If we find any cracks or damage, we patch them up before moving on. It’s important to let those repairs cure.
The surface has to be totally dry before we add new plaster. Sometimes, the weather makes us wait a bit.
Mixing up the plaster is a bit of an art. We combine cement, sand, and water right before we start.
We spread the plaster in a thin, even layer with trowels and floats. The team works fast, since plaster sets up pretty quickly.
We pay extra attention to corners, steps, and around fixtures to make sure everything’s covered.
Curing takes about a week or two. While it’s setting, we keep the surface moist so it doesn’t dry out too fast.
Temperature and humidity can speed things up or slow them down. Best case? Somewhere between 60 and 80 degrees, not too humid or dry.
Pebble and quartz finishes use similar methods, but sometimes need a slightly different touch.
After curing, we check everything over and fix any rough spots.
Then, we fill the pool slowly. It usually takes 12 to 24 hours, depending on the size and your water pressure.
The first month is key for water chemistry. Fresh plaster changes the balance, so we watch it closely.
We use:
Daily testing and chemical tweaks keep stains away and help the plaster cure right. Don’t go crazy with brushing or heavy cleaning just yet.
After about 30 days, your pool’s ready for normal use—and you can finally enjoy that fresh new surface.
When we resurface or replaster a pool, the visual transformation is instant. At the same time, we’re strengthening the pool’s structure and giving your home’s value a real boost.
These upgrades cut down on maintenance costs. They also help your inground pool last way longer.
Resurfacing takes tired, stained inground pool surfaces and turns them into inviting swimming spots. We love helping homeowners pick out modern finishes—pebble, quartz, or even glass beads—that really catch the light.
Color options include:
If you want that classic, smooth white look, replastering brings it right back. Fresh plaster wipes out ugly stains, rough patches, and any weird discoloration.
The new surface reflects light better, so your water looks clearer and way more inviting. It’s honestly like having a resort right in your backyard.
Algae stains and mineral deposits that just won’t budge with cleaning? Both resurfacing and replastering get rid of them. The whole inground pool area ends up looking years newer.
New surfaces mean no more rough spots that can scratch up swimmers’ feet and hands. We use aggregate finishes that give better traction, so slipping becomes less of a worry.
Safety improvements include:
When we replaster, we seal up those tiny cracks that let water sneak behind the shell. That stops bigger structural problems and expensive repairs down the road.
Our resurfacing materials hold up against chlorine and other pool chemicals. With the right care, you’re looking at 10-15 years of solid performance.
The watertight seal keeps the underlying structure safe from water damage. That means you’re not shelling out for foundation repairs later.
Resurfacing your inground pool can add anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 to your home’s value, depending on what materials you choose. Go for glass tiles or natural stone, and the returns get even better.
Real estate agents keep telling us that updated pool surfaces help homes sell faster. Buyers just want a pool that’s ready to enjoy, not a renovation project.
Value factors include:
Replastering gives you a more modest value bump, but it’s still a great return on investment. For folks on a budget, it’s a smart move.
New surfaces resist stains and algae, so you’ll spend less each month on maintenance. That ongoing savings definitely attracts buyers who care about long-term costs.
We hear a lot of questions from pool owners—surface wear, material choices, maintenance headaches. Most inground pool surfaces last 10-15 years before they need some attention, but there are signs to watch for.
It really depends on the material and how you take care of the pool. Standard plaster usually lasts 7-10 years if you stay on top of maintenance.
Quartz surfaces stretch that out to 10-15 years. Pebble finishes? They can go 15-20 years, sometimes even longer.
Things like water chemistry, how often you use the pool, and the local climate all play a part. If you keep the pH balanced and maintain the pool regularly, you’ll get more years out of it.
Cracks in the surface are the big red flag. Water can sneak through and start causing hidden damage.
If you see discoloration or stains that don’t come off, that’s another sign. When the pool walls feel rough or chalky, it’s probably time for a new surface.
Water leaks—especially coming from the surface—need quick action. If you spot aggregate poking through worn plaster, the surface has had its day.
White plaster is the budget-friendly pick, but it needs more frequent care and usually tops out at about 7-10 years.
Quartz is a nice middle ground—durable, not too pricey, and resists stains better than plain plaster. It’s smoother and lasts 10-15 years.
Pebble finishes last the longest, 15-20 years, and look fantastic, but they’ll cost you more. Tile gives you that high-end, long-lasting look, but it’s also the priciest choice.
Fiberglass resurfacing runs $5-7 per square foot. It’s quick to install, which some folks really appreciate.
After we finish, your new surface needs about 28 days to cure. You’ll need to keep the water chemistry just right during this time.
We recommend brushing the surface every day for that first month to stop calcium from building up. It helps the new finish settle in properly.
Keeping the pH between 7.2 and 7.6 makes a big difference for how long the surface will last. Regular brushing and balancing chemicals can really extend its life.
Some materials—like plaster—need more attention, while pebble or quartz are a bit more forgiving.
Most of our resurfacing jobs wrap up in 5-10 business days. The timeline depends on the material you pick and if we find any extra repairs that need doing.
Draining and removing the old surface takes a day or two. Laying down the new material is another day or two.
Then there’s curing and refilling, which adds a few more days. Weather can slow things down, especially for plaster jobs that need certain temperatures and humidity.
If you have more questions, just ask—we’re always happy to talk pools at Dolphin Pool Services.
When you resurface your pool, especially with darker colors, it can actually help with heat retention. That means your pool holds onto warmth longer, so you might spend less on heating.
We’ve noticed that smoother pool surfaces cut down on friction. That lets your pool equipment work a bit less hard, which can lower your energy bills for things like filtration and circulation.
If you go for premium materials, resurfacing usually bumps up your property’s value. A fresh, well-kept pool surface really makes your whole backyard look better (and let’s be honest, it’s more fun to show off).
A lot of the new surface options we use at Dolphin Pool Services come with energy-efficient features you just couldn’t get with older pools. Over time, those upgrades can add up to real utility savings.
