Choosing an Interior Pool Finish

Important pool-related decisions, like choosing an interior finish, can often feel like a daunting task. Where functionality meets design, the finish lines the pool’s interior and prevents water from seeping into the porous concrete. Because of this, there are countless factors to consider, such as color, design, lighting, texture, maintenance, and longevity. The Shoreline Pools team is here to break down the three main interior pool finishes and help you decide which is best for your pool.

Finishing Your Pool’s Interior with Plaster

Plaster finishes have been around since the 1960s and are the most economical option for an interior pool finish. The tried-and-true formula consists of cement, marble dust or silica sand, and water. Because these materials are relatively inexpensive, plaster finishes are prevalent and complement virtually any color.

However, like concrete, plaster is porous and may show wear over time. The typical lifespan lasts 5-7 years. Through proper pool care, like maintaining appropriate chemical balances and an occasional acid wash, you will maximize the lifespan of the finish. To make your pool more decorative without increasing the cost, you can use plaster and include some tile finishes to incorporate beautiful colors and patterns. Plaster’s versatility, low cost, and smooth finish make it the most common choice for a pool interior finish.

Using an Aggregate Finish for Your Swimming Pool

Aggregate finishes come in many different styles, including polished (finely crushed stones) and exposed (river pebbles or glass beads). Aggregate finishes consist of plaster mixed with your choice of stones, glass beads, or pebbles. This gives your pool an extra shimmer as it reflects light and offers a better grip due to the textured material.

Depending on the type of stones used—granite, quartz, marble, or river stones, its lifespan lasts 12 to 20 years. However, the price of an aggregate finish is much steeper than plaster due to the material costs. Timeless and classy, aggregate pool finishes are great for those who want a mid-priced finish that is durable and elevated.

Using Tile to Finish Your Pool’s Interior

Tile is an excellent choice for pool owners who want something unique, creative, detailed, and upscale. Tile is the most expensive finish, but the design choices are limitless. You can choose from stone, glass, ceramic, or porcelain tiles. Incredibly strong and durable, tiles should last the pool’s lifespan without much maintenance or need of replacement. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most popular and often used to create mosaics or distinctive patterns. Despite the cost, tile is ideal for pool owners looking for something decorative that is high-quality and low maintenance.

Design Factors to Keep in Mind

For each pool interior finishing option, you’ll want to consider the material’s color, pattern, and texture. Plaster finishes may mix in white, grey, blue, and many other colors. Lighter colors give that classic light-blue swimming pool look, while darker colors offer more of a natural pond look. Aggregate finishes present beachy tones due to the reflective glass and sand-colored stones embedded in the plaster. The softer colors pair perfectly with natural stone landscaping, making your pool and spa look like a far-away lagoon! Tile gives your pool more artistic flexibility as you can add tiles to the entire swimming pool, the flooring, the steps, or the waterline. Tiles complement Mediterranean-style homes and landscaping very well. Be bold and make a statement with your pool by using various ornate designs and colors.

Finding The Best Pool Interior Finish

Shoreline Pools is here to help guide you in your pool design and construction process. Our experts understand every detail of pool finishing and want to help you achieve the pool of your dreams. Whether you want a simple plaster finish, a classy aggregate finish, or an ornate tile design, we will turn your vision into reality. If you are unsure of where to start, call us today at (203) 357-1544 to learn more about your pool interior options! Make sure to subscribe to Shoreline Pools on HOUZZ for unlimited design inspiration.