Plaster vs. Pebble Swimming Pool Finishes: Differences That Matter

When it comes to building or renovating a swimming pool, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is what type of finish to use. The finish is the layer that covers the inside of your pool, and it affects not just how your pool looks, but also how it feels, how long it lasts, and how easy it is to take care of.

Two of the most common finishes homeowners choose are plaster and pebble. Both are popular, but they are very different in terms of appearance, cost, durability, and maintenance. Understanding these differences will help you make the right choice for your pool and your lifestyle.

At Epic Watershapes, we’ve helped countless homeowners pick the perfect finish for their backyard pools. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about plaster and pebble finishes so you can make an informed decision.

What Is a Pool Finish and Why Does It Matter

A pool finish is the final layer applied to the interior surface of your swimming pool. While it looks nice, it’s more than just a cosmetic feature. Your finish affects:

Durability: How long your pool lasts before needing repairs or resurfacing
Comfort: How smooth or rough the pool feels on your feet and skin
Maintenance: How easy it is to clean and keep water chemistry balanced
Appearance: The color, shine, and overall style of your pool

There are many pool finishes available, but plaster and pebble remain two of the most popular choices for homeowners who want a balance between beauty, performance, and cost. Let’s take a closer look at each.

Plaster Pool Finishes: Classic and Comfortable

Plaster is one of the oldest and most traditional pool finishes. It is made from a mixture of cement, water, and marble dust, sometimes with small amounts of color or additives for a slightly different look. Once it’s applied and cured, plaster gives your pool a smooth and even surface.

Features of Plaster Pools

Smooth Texture: Plaster feels soft and gentle on your feet, making it very comfortable for swimming.
Light Colours: Plaster is usually light-coloured, which makes the water look bright and clear. You can also add tints to change the color slightly.
Quick Installation: Compared to other finishes, plaster is relatively quick to apply.
Affordable: Plaster is typically the least expensive option for a pool finish.

Pros of Plaster

Comfortable Surface: Perfect for walking barefoot and swimming.
Bright and Inviting: Light plaster reflects sunlight beautifully, making your pool sparkle.
Budget-Friendly: Great if you want a beautiful pool without spending too much initially.

Cons of Plaster

Shorter Lifespan: Usually lasts 5–10 years before needing a new surface.
Prone to Stains: Light colours can show stains from algae, metals, or chemicals.
Sensitive to Chemicals: You have to keep a close eye on pool water pH and chemical balance.
Roughing Over Time: As it ages, plaster may develop small pits or rough spots.

Plaster is an excellent choice if you want a classic, smooth, and comfortable pool surface, but it does require regular maintenance and may need resurfacing sooner than other options.

Pebble Pool Finishes: Durable and Luxurious

A pebble finish is made by embedding small pebbles or aggregates into a cement-based mixture. These can be natural river stones, coloured pebbles, or glass beads, creating a surface that is both beautiful and long-lasting.

Pebble finishes have become increasingly popular for homeowners who want a high-end, resort-style look and minimal maintenance.

Features of Pebble Pools

Textured Surface: Slightly rougher than plaster, which makes it more slip-resistant.
Variety of Colours: Available in earth tones, blues, blacks, and even custom blends.
Durable Material: Can last 15–20 years, much longer than plaster.
Natural, Elegant Look: Pebble pools often resemble a tropical lagoon or luxury resort pool.

Pros of Pebble

Long Lifespan: A pebble surface lasts longer than plaster and maintains its appearance.
Low Maintenance: Resistant to stains, chemicals, and algae buildup.
Safety: Textured surface reduces slipping, perfect for kids or pool parties.
High-End Aesthetics: Creates a natural and luxurious pool environment.

Cons of Pebble

Higher Cost: Pebble finishes are more expensive upfront than plaster.
Slightly Rough: Some people find the texture less comfortable for bare feet, though this can be minimized with smaller pebbles.
Longer Installation: The process is more detailed and may take more time than plaster.

Plaster vs. Pebble: A Side-by-Side Look

To make it easier to compare, here’s a quick summary of the differences between plaster and pebble finishes:

Feature	Plaster Finish	Pebble Finish
Cost	Lower upfront	Higher upfront
Durability	5–10 years	15–20 years
Texture	Smooth, soft	Slightly rough, textured
Maintenance	Requires regular care	Low maintenance
Appearance Options	Limited colors	Wide range of colors and blends
Comfort	Very soft on the feet	Slightly rough, depending on pebble size
Slip Resistance	Moderate	Excellent
Installation Time	Quick	Slower, detailed

From this comparison, you can see that plaster is great for comfort and cost savings, while pebble finishes shine when you want durability, style, and low maintenance.

Things to Think About Before Choosing

Choosing a pool finish isn’t just about cost or looks. Here are some important factors to consider:

1. Climate and Water Chemistry

If your water is hard or contains lots of minerals, a pebble finish is more resistant to etching and staining.
Strong sunlight can fade lighter plaster colours over time, while pebble finishes retain their color longer.

2. Maintenance Commitment

Plaster requires more frequent cleaning and chemical checks to keep it looking good.
Pebble finishes are low-maintenance and less sensitive to chemical changes.

3. Who Uses the Pool

If you have children or elderly swimmers, plaster may feel better on bare feet.
For entertaining, pool parties, or heavy use, pebble is safer and more durable.

4. Budget

Plaster costs less upfront but may need resurfacing sooner.
Pebble costs more initially but last longer, which can save money over time.

5. Style Goals

Plaster gives a classic, simple, clean look.
Pebble creates a luxurious, natural appearance, like a resort pool.

How to Make Your Pool Finish Last Longer

No matter what finish you choose, there are ways to extend its life and keep your pool looking great:

For Plaster Pools

Add Quartz or Colored Aggregates: Increases durability and adds color.
Seal the Surface: Protects against stains and erosion.
Regular Brushing and Cleaning: Prevents algae and keeps it smooth.

For Pebble Pools

Use Rounded Pebbles: Makes the surface more comfortable on feet.
Color Blends: Create unique designs or patterns.
Apply Sealant: Protects the surface and enhances color.

Cost Comparison Over Time

While plaster is cheaper at first, maintenance and resurfacing can add up. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Finish	Initial Cost	Lifespan	Maintenance	10-Year Cost Estimate
Plaster	$4–$7 per sq. ft.	5–10 years	Moderate	Higher due to resurfacing
Pebble	$8–$12 per sq. ft.	15–20 years	Low	Lower because it lasts longer

This shows that pebble finishes may save money in the long run even if the initial price is higher.

Why Professional Installation Matters

The finish is only as good as the installation. Poor work can cause:

Cracks
Uneven surfaces
Premature wear and color fading

At Epic Watershapes, we specialize in professional pool finishes. Our team ensures that your plaster or pebble surface is installed correctly, giving you a beautiful, long-lasting pool.

Making Your Decision

Here’s a quick guide:

Pick Plaster if: You want a smooth, comfortable pool surface and are okay with regular maintenance.
Pick Pebble if: You want a luxurious, durable, low-maintenance pool that lasts for years.

Both finishes have their benefits, and the best choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and personal preference.

Ready to Transform Your Pool?

At Epic Watershapes, we help homeowners choose the perfect pool finish. Whether you want the classic comfort of plaster or the luxury and durability of pebble, we provide expert advice, professional installation, and high-quality materials.