What Is Pebble Tec?

Pebble Tec is a proprietary exposed aggregate pool interior finish manufactured by the Pebble Technology family of brands. It consists of small, smooth river pebbles embedded in a cement-based matrix and applied to the interior of gunite pools. The pebbles are exposed during installation through a water washing process, creating a textured surface that is more durable than standard plaster and more visually interesting than smooth quartz finishes.

Why Pebble Tec for Chester County and Main Line Pools

Durability. Pebble Tec and Pebble Sheen finishes typically last 20-25 years before replastering is needed — compared to 7-12 years for standard white plaster. For a $100,000+ pool investment, the additional cost of Pebble Tec is recovered in avoided replastering cycles.

Chemical resistance. The exposed aggregate surface is less susceptible to etching from pH fluctuations and chemical imbalance than plaster finishes. Easier to maintain proper pool chemistry over the pool's lifetime.

Color depth. Pebble finishes produce deep, natural water colors — blue-green tones that read as genuinely tropical, not the flat blue of white plaster under water. The visual difference is significant, particularly in photographs of the pool environment.

Texture. Pebble Tec's textured surface is rougher underfoot than smooth plaster — a trade-off some homeowners prefer for grip, others find uncomfortable for bare feet. Pebble Sheen (a finer aggregate) offers a middle ground. We recommend homeowners visit a pool with each finish before selecting.

JHL Pools installs Pebble Tec and Pebble Sheen as standard on all new custom gunite builds. Upgrade from white plaster: approximately $8,000-$15,000 depending on pool size.

→ All pool plaster finish options | → Gunite pool construction