How do you plaster a concrete pool?

Asked by: Rick Kramer

Can you plaster a swimming pool?

Pool plaster not only enhances the aesthetics and design of your pool, but it also provides a protective covering that extends the life and enjoyment of your pool. However, with time, the plaster may begin to deteriorate and lose its tensile strength.

What kind of plaster do you use on a pool?

Standard white plaster is the tried and true pool and spa surface finish. White plaster has been around as long as people have been building swimming pools and it remains a popular choice in spite of the myriad of choices that have come into the market in recent years.

How do you apply pool plaster?

Start applying on the walls in the shallow end and continue the application all the way around through the deep end back to the shallow end. Then start again on the floor in the deep end walking.

How do you finish a concrete pool?

The three main options for a concrete pool finish are plaster, aggregates or tile. For many, cost is the overriding factor in determining the type of interior surface. In general, the cost of resurfacing a concrete pool depends on your region of the country, the size of the pool, and the material you choose.

How long does it take to plaster a concrete pool?

How long does it take to resurface a pool? Pool resurfacing usually takes about 5-7 days to complete. The pool resurfacing process can be hindered by weather, however, and may take up to 14 days in certain cases.

How do I resurface my pool myself?

First the pool is emptied and acid-washed. Then there is a clear prime coat followed. By three finished coats of the Aquabot 5000.

How thick should pool plaster be?

about one half an inch

Applied at a thickness of about one half an inch, white plaster was the standard in the pool industry.

How soon can you swim after plastering pool?

The plaster material cures under water in about 7-10 days. But this doesn’t mean you have to wait that long. Once the pool is filled and clean, you can go in for a swim.

What is the next step after plastering a pool?

After the pool has been plastered, the plaster crew should use your hose in the pool to fill it with water.

What is the cheapest pool finish?

Plaster finishes are the cheapest and easiest to install, but they lack durability. Aggregates can be the most attractive but are slightly more expensive and more time-consuming. Tile finishes are the most expensive and take the longest, but their durability is top-notch.

What is the difference between gunite and plaster?

A gunite pool indicates the underlying STRUCTURE. Plaster is the final FINISH on top of the gunite structure. All inground gunite pools have the same structure (gunite or dry shotcrete – synonymous terms). The final stage of construction entails applying an interior finish, such as plaster.

Is pebble Tec better than plaster?

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.

What is the longest lasting pool finish?

Tile Finishes

Tile Finishes



Though tile is the most expensive pool finish and takes longer to install than plaster and aggregate, it’s the longest lasting pool surface. With proper application and minimal maintenance, tiles should never need to be replaced. Tile pool finishes come in ceramic, porcelain, glass and stone.

What is a white plaster pool?

Here's a very large white plaster pool the white plaster is a very classic look and it's very common in most pools. And it's probably the most inexpensive way to go.

Is Diamond Brite better than PebbleTec?

Diamond Brite is a quartz finish and is an excellent product as well. PebbleTec might have a slight edge on the Diamond Brite. So, if they did mix them up it isn’t all that bad. Especially if you’re happy with the finish and the color.

What is the difference between gunite and Diamond Brite?

And it's going to be a lot more durable and resistant to water chemistry. The other advantage of having a quartz based finish is once it's plastered on initially. It's acid washed and then buffed.

Is Diamond Brite pool worth it?

Diamond Brite



With a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years, and with a stunning appearance, it is an excellent choice for some pools. This option provides the best bang for the buck – it is truly beautiful and durable, but it just doesn’t feel as luxurious as our all-time favorite plaster, Hydrazzo (see below).

How Long Does Diamond Brite pool finish last?

about 8 years- 15 years

Pool owners often tell us that it feels more comfortable for their feet after we place in this smooth finish. Colored quartz is added as it can come in colors such as emerald, blue-gray, aqua blue, and many others. Diamond Brite finishes can last about 8 years- 15 years. A Diamond Brite finish is strong and durable.

Is Diamond Brite better than plaster?

Diamond Brite finish, on the other hand, costs a little more than white plaster but is more durable and has a longer lifespan of about 10-15 years. As well, you also have the freedom to personalize your pool thanks to the variety of exquisite shades available for you to choose from.

Is Diamond Brite pool plaster?

And easy to maintain Diamond Brite combines natural quartz aggregates polymer modified cements and non fading color aggregates in a stunning variety of 17 colors that can be combined to create a

Is Diamond Brite gunite?

Diamond Brite is a brand of plaster that some pool owners use to cover their gunite pools. Over time however, Diamond Brite plaster will become stained from the chemicals used in your pool.

What kind of pool finish is best?

Quartz Aggregate



Quartz is the most cost-effective pool aggregate finish and the first step up from a traditional plaster finish. A mixture of cement, colored quartz, dyes and additives create this look.

What is the most popular Diamond Brite color?

Common colors for Diamond Brite pools include Cool Blue, Onyx, Ivory, Oyster Quartz, Aqua Quartz, and Verde. However, our favorites are Tahoe Blue and French Gray.

How long does it take to Diamond Brite a pool?

24 to 36 hours

Note that the application of Diamond Brite is a two-day process. The average pool takes 24 to 36 hours to fill. Until the pool is completely filled with water it is vulnerable and extra care should be taken as detailed below. It is important that your swimming pool be filled with water as soon as possible.

Can you Replaster a pool yourself?

It will chip and wear away more easily, and when it does, you will need to repair it. If there’s a reason to use paint over plaster, it’s that the application process really is a lot easier. While you could paint on your own, replastering is something that only the most industrious homeowners take on.

How thick should Diamond Brite be?

3/8” to ½”

APPLICATION: Diamond Brite should be applied to a uniform thickness of 3/8” to ½” over the entire surface. The walls may be scratch coated followed by a finish coat or single coated.