How Much Does It Cost To Replaster A Pool? | Upgraded Home (2023)

How Much Does It Cost To Replaster A Pool? | Upgraded Home (1)

Owning a pool is a great investment, particularly if you live in a hot and dry environment. Nothing beats being able to cool off with a relaxing dip when the temperature starts to rise. However, while a pool is a blessing during the hottest months of the year, it can require a lot of upkeep and maintenance.

One significant component to pay attention to is if your pool has plaster walls. Eventually, you will need to replaster them so that they don’t get cracked and leak water into the ground. When that happens, the question becomes, “how much does it cost to replaster a pool?”

The average cost to replaster a pool is $6,500 at $5.50 per square foot for materials and labor. Homeowners spend another average of $1,500 to paint a pool or $5,000 to install aggregate. You can expect to pay $4 per square foot to install porcelain tile in a pool, and it can cost up to $30,000 total.

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Average Costs for Pool Replastering

When trying to figure out how much this project is going to cost, you will need to factor several things. First, you have to determine the price of the material you’re using. While plaster is relatively inexpensive, it’s not the only option available. We’ll cover the costs of other materials as well.

(Video) How much does it cost to replaster a pool?

The second consideration is labor. When having a professional team replaster your pool, you can expect to pay another $45 to $65 per hour. So, the larger the job is, the more you’ll pay for labor. Here is a quick breakdown of the costs of replastering compared with different options.

Plaster or Marcite

If you currently have plaster in your pool, it will make sense to replace it with a new layer. This material can also be called Marcite, and it will cost roughly $4 to $7 per foot, not including labor. For a 1000-square-foot pool, you can expect to pay around $5,500 to $6,500 in total.

The plaster will often last up to 15 or 20 years, depending on variables like thickness, density, and usage. If you opt for a cheaper material, you can expect to replace it within five to ten years.

Paint

If the price of replastering is too expensive, one alternative is to cover it with a thick layer of pool-ready paint. You have to make sure that the paint can hold up to chlorinated water, which will make it more expensive than average paint. Typically, repainting will only cost around $1,500 with labor, but it will wear down faster.

In most cases, paint will wear off after a few years, so you will have to maintain it more frequently. Over time, you may spend more than you would on replastering.

Aggregate

To create a more natural look for your pool, you can choose an aggregate finish. You will have to choose between a smooth surface, such as Diamond Brite, or something rougher, like Pebble Tec. For smoother aggregate, you can expect to pay around $5,000 with labor costs. Pebble aggregate, however, can get up to $9,000 for an average pool.

The advantage of choosing a material like Pebble Tec is that it will last longer. Diamond Brite can wear down in as few as eight years, while Pebble Tec can stay intact for up to 20.

Tile

The most expensive material to resurface your pool is tile. However, it does last the longest, with an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years. You can also choose from a wide array of colors and styles to fit your needs. On the low end, porcelain tile will cost around $4 per foot. Ceramic tile will be roughly $6 a-foot, and glass can be up to $25.

When you calculate labor costs, you can expect to pay between $30 and $50 per foot, which can inflate the project to upwards of $30,000 total.

(Video) How much does it cost to Replaster an inground pool?

One advantage of working with tile is that you don’t have to resurface the whole pool. Instead, you can install it along the waterline to create a more layered effect. You can also match your tile to pool structures like an outdoorcabana.

How Your Location Affects the Price

Unfortunately, replastering your pool can be even more expensive, depending on where you live. Here is a quick overview of the average costs for this project in various cities. These prices are based on 1,000 square feet, so if your pool is bigger, be sure to plan accordingly.

  • Las Vegas – $5,000
  • Los Angeles – $7,000
  • Phoenix – $4,800
  • Orlando – $5,500

There are several reasons why costs can go up or down based on your location. These variables can include:

  • Supply and Demand– In areas where pools are more prevalent, there are likely to be more contractors available. However, if you live in an area with fewer pools, it can be harder to find qualified workers.
  • Regulations– Each state and county has its own rules regarding renovations projects like this. Some of these laws may inflate the cost.
  • Local Materials– Your contractor may have to ship materials from another part of the country, which will add to the price.

Signs That Your Pool Needs Replastering

On average, pool plaster will last between 10 and 20 years. If there is a coat of pool paint over it, it should be closer to 20. The durability of your plaster depends largely on how often you go swimming and how well you take care of it. Also, if you have asaltwater pool, the plaster will wear down faster. No matter how much you baby it, it will eventually need to be replaced.

Here are some warning signs that it’s time for an upgrade.

  • Staining– Since your pool water has various metals and minerals in it, they will react with the plaster and stain it over time. While scrubbing and acid washing can help, the surface will become more stained over the years.
  • Rough Surface– As plaster wears off, it will create an uneven surface on your pool. Unfortunately, it won’t just be bumpy, but it can create jagged and sharp points as well. If you run your hand along the plaster and it feels too rough, it’s time for replastering.
  • Cracks and Leaks– Eventually, the surface will wear down so much that the concrete underneath will show through. Because concrete is porous, it will allow water to seep into the soil. So, if you’re having to refill your pool regularly, it’s a sure sign that the plaster is cracked or worn off completely. In extreme cases, soil erosion around the pool can cause the concrete shell to crack, which will be much more expensive to repair.
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    (Video) How Much Does Resurfacing a Concrete Pool Cost?

    How Much Does It Cost To Replaster A Pool? | Upgraded Home (3)

Related Questions

Do I have to replaster the whole pool?

In some cases, the surface might be wearing down in a few places only. While you can patch these sections, doing so is a temporary fix. Eventually, the rest of the plaster will wear off, and you’ll have to cover the whole pool.

Can I do this project myself?

If you’re trying to save money, you might think that replastering your pool is an easy enough job. However, there are many elements that go into it, such as draining the water, removing the old plaster, and allowing the new material to set. Overall, we recommend hiring professionals since they can guarantee their work and get done much faster.

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(Video) Pool Restoration and Replastering with Permits | Tips for Renovation and Costs

FAQs

What is the difference between resurfacing and Replastering a pool? ›

Pool resurfacing is the process of repairing and restoring the surface of a swimming pool. It is a less invasive process that can be completed relatively quickly. Pool replastering is a more expensive and time-consuming process that results in a completely new surface.

Is there an alternative to Replastering a pool? ›

Your pool will unsurprisingly need repairs after it has been used for years on end. When this time comes, be sure to call a professional epoxy painter. They possess the skills that can be completely trusted and relied on to correctly perform repairs in your pool.

How do you calculate pool replastering? ›

The typical cost to have a pool replastered is between $4 and $7 per square foot. Assuming an average pool size of 16 feet by 32 feet, 4 feet deep on the shallow end and 8 feet on the deep end, that's total of 1,088 square feet. If the cost is $5 per square foot, replastering would cost $5,440.

What is the life expectancy of pool plaster? ›

Depending on a variety of local factors and your individual pool-water treatment routine, the typical lifespan of traditional marcite plaster is 7 to 10 years. If the finish includes a quartz aggregate blend, the time table should extend another five years.

What time of year is best to Replaster pool? ›

Generally, the best time to replaster your pool will be in the spring and fall, at least for most areas in the United States. If you're not sure what kind of weather conditions are ideal in your area, call your pool contractor to learn more.

Can you Replaster a pool over old plaster? ›

I would not recommend replastering over your existing plaster. In fact, most professionals will advise against it. To ensure that the new plaster lasts a long time, the old plaster needs to be removed first. The prepping process for new plaster is vital to maintain the integrity of the new plaster.

Does Replastering a pool get rid of black algae? ›

Method #4: If your budget allows and your pool is full of black spots, you can go for replastering option. This is the most effective method to permanently get rid of black algae. Make sure you ask your pool cleaning to properly clean the pool tiles to remove the black algae spores completely.

Does resurfacing pool add value to home? ›

Swimming Pool Remodeling – How It Can Boost Your Property Value When Selling. If you're planning to sell your home, a few tweaks might prove to be beneficial for both you and the buyer. Remodeling usually increases the value of your property since the goal is to add value and features to attract potential buyers.

Can you Replaster a pool without replacing the tile? ›

​No. The Plasterer will saw cut under the tile line and chip out the cut plaster. Although it is a very good time to retile because the pool will already be drained and is easier to clean up after the tile has been set.

What is better pebble tec or plaster? ›

Durability. Pool plaster is not as durable as Pebble Tec®. Over time, it discolors, stains, and collects bacteria. This is due to its porous surface material being difficult to fully clean.

How often should a plaster pool be resurfaced? ›

How often is it necessary to resurface a pool? It varies depending on the type of pool, with plaster or cement pools needing to be resurfaced every 3-7 years while fiberglass pools can sometimes go as long as 15-30 years.

How many times can a pool be replastered? ›

The guidelines for commercial pool maintenance recommend that a commercial pool be replastered every ten years on average. However, there is no equivalent rule of thumb for residential pool replastering due to the large variation in personal use.

Can a pool leak through plaster? ›

During the construction of swimming pools (and prior to plastering), it is not uncommon for water to seep through the shotcrete or gunite shell into the pool's interior.

What color pool plaster is best? ›

White plaster has been around since people first began building pools and remains a very popular choice. Quite simply it is white Portland cement, limestone sand, and water combined. White Plaster is both economical and classic in nature and will give your pool's water a sky blue tint.

What's better a fiberglass or a plaster pool? ›

For starters, fiberglass lasts longer than concrete or plaster. Also, fiberglass is smoother, so it absorbs fewer chemicals and less organic material. Fiberglass resists algae stains, too. When correctly done, you are left with a good-looking pool likely to last a good long time.

What is the longest lasting pool plaster? ›

Pebble Tec is a mix of large pebbles, stone aggregate, and cement. This is the most durable of the plaster pool types as its surface last from 15 to 20 years +. Pebble Tec is the top choice for gunite pool buyers.

Is it OK to leave a plaster pool empty? ›

If the pool ever needs to be drained to replace the water or to maintain the plaster, it should never be left empty for more than eight to ten days at the most. More than this may cause the plaster to dry out and crack. Keep your pool full for best results.

Is it better to paint or plaster a pool? ›

While both paint and plaster have the same shine, after the first few years, plaster wins out. As aforementioned, pool paint doesn't have the longevity that resurfacing work does – and even worse, over time, pool paint will fade, leaving your swimming pool looking dull and lifeless.

Can you pressure wash a plaster pool? ›

Only pools constructed of plaster, exposed aggregate, or concrete are strong enough to withstand the power of a pressure washer. Any other type of pool, such as vinyl or fiberglass, must be cleaned using chemical treatments or using non-abrasive methods.

How do you know when your pool needs to be Replastered? ›

If there are several bare or thin spots, be sure to plaster the entire pool for a uniform result. Plaster is normally translucent in thin layers so if the plaster appears darker in certain areas, that's due to gunite showing through, that's an indication that the pool needs to be replastered or patched.

How do I know when to Replaster my pool? ›

Top 10 Signs You Have To Refinish Your Pool
  • Plaster Flaking or Peeling. Maybe you've noticed the plaster is peeling along the steps or floor of your pool or spa. ...
  • Surface Stains. ...
  • Roughness. ...
  • Check Cracks. ...
  • Plaster Discolorations. ...
  • Structural Cracks. ...
  • Rust Stains. ...
  • Loss of Pebbles.
May 5, 2017

What kills pool algae the best? ›

Copper-based algaecide is effective in killing different types of algae because it lasts longer in pool water. It is effective in killing green pool algae, mustard algae, pink pool algae, and black pool algae. This algaecide works by producing residuals on the swimming pool walls where you are likely to find algae.

What else kills algae in a pool? ›

Shock Your Swimming Pool

Adding shock to your pool super-chlorinates your water. And this extra dose of sanitizer will kill algae growth. The more serious your pool algae problem, the more shock you'll need. We recommend using calcium hypochlorite shock, or cal-hypo shock, as an effective algae treatment.

Does baking soda help with algae in a pool? ›

Baking soda can work wonders in a pool. Baking soda can: Help to clear cloudy water and restore the sparkle. Spot-treat algae.

Are houses with pools harder to sell? ›

It won't be easy since a swimming pool can actually make your home harder to sell. Many buyers consider it a liability rather than a luxury. Under the right circumstances, however, a pool could boost your home's value by as much as 7%, Houselogic estimates.

What increases house value the most? ›

The top five projects that add the most dollar value to a sale in 2022 are refinishing hardwood floors, installing new wood floors, upgrading insulation, converting a basement to a living area and renovating closets, according to a joint report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the National Association ...

What adds most value to a house? ›

Projects That Boost Your Home's Value
  • Remodel the kitchen. Updates to the kitchen pay off. ...
  • Upgrade the appliances. ...
  • Boost the bathrooms. ...
  • Remodel the attic or basement. ...
  • Get decked out. ...
  • Boost curb appeal. ...
  • Improve energy efficiency.

Can you Replaster a pool yourself? ›

HydroBOND® is the perfect product for the do-it-yourself pool repair project. This easy to use, roll on plaster coating comes with a convenient kit so all you need to do is drain your pool, prep your existing surface, mix up a batch, and roll on the HydroBOND®.

Is it hard to Replaster a pool? ›

Keep in mind that it will take a lot of time and effort on your part, because the replaster pool process is complex and prone to error. Here's what you'll need to do it yourself: Acid wash.

What comes after plastering a pool? ›

Curing plaster refers to a maturation process of the new plaster finish when it strengthens and seals. The pool finish will start to cure immediately after mixing. Sixty percent of the curing process occurs in the first 4 weeks and will continue over the next 8 to 10 months.

What makes pebble Tec crack? ›

Hairline cracks can occur at any time during the life of the product due to temperature changes and expansion and contraction of concrete.

Is plaster the same as gunite? ›

No! A gunite pool indicates the underlying STRUCTURE. Plaster is the final FINISH on top of the gunite structure.

What lasts longer pebble Tec or plaster? ›

Pebble Tec is extremely durable. Compared to plaster pools that only last between 6-8 years, Pebble Tec pool finishes can last from 10-15 years.

How do you winterize a plaster pool? ›

Steps for Winterizing an In-Ground Pool
  1. Step 1: Remove pool accessories. ...
  2. Step 2: Deep clean the pool. ...
  3. Step 3: Adjust the water chemistry. ...
  4. Step 4: Lower the water level. ...
  5. Step 5: Drain and store the equipment. ...
  6. Step 6: Add shock and algaecide. ...
  7. Step 7: Cover the pool.

Can you drain a plaster pool for the winter? ›

Close the pool for winter – but don't drain it.

In winter, the water in your pool is still your friend. Especially when properly winterized, it helps to protect the pool liner, keep it clean and prevent unnecessary damage from debris, harsh weather and other factors.

Does chlorine damage pool plaster? ›

Other Chemicals. Adding large doses of chlorine to water in one spot may cause mineral and metal fallout or bleaching. This may cause staining of fresh plaster.

What causes cracks in pool plaster? ›

As for surface cracks, the primary contributing factors can be improper curing, temperature, wind, or use of excess water in the concrete mix used while constructing the pool. Surface cracks can start to show up as time passes by. They are usually seen as hairline cracks in the plaster walls of your pool.

Does salt water pool damage plaster? ›

Salt water can be up to 5 times more abrasive on plaster than traditional chlorine water. Translation: you'll need to resurface the pool that much faster, which costs a pretty penny. Salt gradually wears away at the cementitious finish. It's worst with plaster but a little better with aggregate.

Where do most pool leaks occur? ›

Signs of a pool leak include high water bills, standing water near the pool, unbalanced chemical levels, and discolored water. The first place to look for a pool leak is around the skimmers. After all, this is the most likely place for leaks to develop.

Is Leaking pool covered by homeowners insurance? ›

In general, if your pool is damaged by a covered peril, it will be covered under your homeowners insurance policy. The way your policy is written will determine whether your pool is considered part of your home or viewed as part of your “other structures” coverage.

What happens if it rains right after pool plaster? ›

Rain will cause streaks, discoloration, and curing mistakes once the plastering has begun. Not only will it cause streaking, but it also causes something called hydrostatic holes in the granite and plaster.

What color pool is the warmest? ›

Dark pools – also known as black bottom pools – easily stand out from others thanks to their bold, dramatic color. One of the main advantages of a dark bottom pool compared to light colored pools is that the darker color will help absorb more of the the sun's heat to increase the water temperature accordingly.

What color is healthy pool? ›

Even though we may think a healthy pool is a blue pool; a healthy pool is actually a clear pool. It's also important to point out that salt water pools, which use salt chlorine generators are just as healthy and just as clear as those using traditional chlorine.

What's the difference between resurfacing and Replastering a pool? ›

Pool resurfacing is the process of repairing and restoring the surface of a swimming pool. It is a less invasive process that can be completed relatively quickly. Pool replastering is a more expensive and time-consuming process that results in a completely new surface.

What is the downside of fiberglass pools? ›

One of the biggest gripes that we see have to do with the slippery surface of a fiberglass pool. The fact is, this material can be so slick that pool users can actually slip and fall. This can be a real problem for pool steps, where a slip-and-fall accident can be dangerous.

What is the most durable type of inground pool? ›

Its durability is reflected by the fact that many inground fiberglass pools last as long as 50 years without the need for major repairs or replacement. It's a material built to last a lifetime. All things considered, fiberglass pools are the most durable pool type.

What does it mean to resurface your pool? ›

So, what is pool refinishing? Also called resurfacing, refinishing is a regular maintenance process that involves removing and replacing the top layer of the pool surface. With a smooth, rejuvenated surface and any cracks or leaks repaired, the pool is ready for a new sealant.

What does resurfacing a pool do? ›

Resurfacing can repair problems like cracks and wearing, while also enhancing and updating your pool's appearance. While not needed as often as other services, resurfacing should still be on your list of pool maintenance tasks.

What does Replastering a pool mean? ›

In a nutshell, replastering a pool means putting a new layer of plaster on the walls and bottom. What does plaster do? First, it serves to make your pool waterproof. Kind of important, right? When you had your pool installed, the people who did it likely used either concrete or gunite to form the “shell” of the pool.

How many times can you Replaster a pool? ›

The guidelines for commercial pool maintenance recommend that a commercial pool be replastered every ten years on average. However, there is no equivalent rule of thumb for residential pool replastering due to the large variation in personal use.

Do you have to drain a pool to resurface it? ›

Resurfacing. A swimming pool's plaster coating doesn't last forever and will eventually need to be replaced. Typically, residential pools need to be resurfaced every 20 to 30 years, which requires the water to be completely drained.

What happens if I don't resurface my pool? ›

If you do not get swimming pool repair or resurfacing on time, it will often be exposed to cracks, weather, and unevenness on the surface of the pool. This may lead to water leakage, ugly looking algae stains, and injuries due to uneven surface.

What is best to resurface a pool? ›

Pool plaster

Plaster is a popular choice for resurfacing pool surfaces because it offers many benefits. First, it is durable and long-lasting. Unlike other materials that can crack or peel over time, plaster holds up well to weathering, changes in temperature, and exposure to chemicals.

Should I plaster my pool? ›

PLASTER IS ECONOMICAL: Plaster is the most economical pool surface. Its initial cost is well below more expensive options. In addition, the average plaster surface can easily last 15 to 25 years, which makes Plaster one of the most economical components of a swimming pool. That's value for your investment.

How do you know when it's time to Replaster your pool? ›

Top 10 Signs You Have To Refinish Your Pool
  • Plaster Flaking or Peeling. Maybe you've noticed the plaster is peeling along the steps or floor of your pool or spa. ...
  • Surface Stains. ...
  • Roughness. ...
  • Check Cracks. ...
  • Plaster Discolorations. ...
  • Structural Cracks. ...
  • Rust Stains. ...
  • Loss of Pebbles.
May 5, 2017

Is Pebble Tec better than plaster? ›

Durability. Pool plaster is not as durable as Pebble Tec®. Over time, it discolors, stains, and collects bacteria. This is due to its porous surface material being difficult to fully clean.

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