Pool Plaster Finishes — Options and Comparison

The interior finish of a gunite pool is the surface you see and feel when you look at the pool. It provides the watertight membrane between the concrete shell and the water and determines the pool's color, texture, and long-term maintenance requirements.

Standard White Plaster

The original gunite pool finish. White Portland cement mixed with marble dust, applied in two coats. Clean, bright white color. Pro: lowest cost, classic appearance. Con: stains over time, requires replastering every 7-12 years. Standard on renovation projects and entry-level new builds.

Quartz Aggregate Plaster

Quartz crystals mixed into the plaster base. Harder and more durable than standard plaster. Smooth surface feel. Wide color range from white through gray, blue, and green tones. Typical lifespan 15-20 years before replastering. Popular for Newtown Square and Main Line new builds in the mid-range finish category.

Pebble Tec / Pebble Sheen

Exposed aggregate finish where small river pebbles or glass beads are exposed on the pool surface. The most durable interior finish available — 20-25 year lifespan typical. The luxury standard for Chester County and Main Line pool environments. Texture is rougher underfoot than plaster but provides better grip. Color range: natural earth tones to deep blues and greens. JHL Pools default finish for new custom gunite builds.

Glass Tile

Individual glass tiles applied to the interior — typically at vanishing edges, spa interiors, and accent details rather than the full pool interior. Maximum visual impact. Highest cost. Maintenance-intensive but architecturally distinctive.

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